There is always discussions around this topic and we question why South Africa generally does not do well in International regattas. For what its worth my opinion is :
“Forget about International competition for a while get more kids on Oppies and Dabbies or whatever, apply what money and resources we have on recruitment, maybe even declare an International moritorium for a while . Once we have the numbers then concentrate on high performance etc etc” To back up what I am saying check out this photo by clicking here World Record.
The picture is of a new Guinness World Record for the ‘Largest Parade of Boats’ which was set by the International Optimist Class Association within the waters of Weymouth and Portland, venue for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic sailing events, featuring 318 Optimist sailors aged between 7 and 15 years.
I believe, its possible for this country to gets near to this fleet size,we just need the focus and will. The Hotshots, and there are plenty, will naturally come to the fore and make us all proud.
Owen