A one-design class fades away when either the ­building stops or the diehards and old-timers move on. Without sustained and creative efforts to replenish members, the outcome is always inevitable.

She’s sweet, petite, and unassuming onshore and on the racecourse. But engage her in a final-leg tacking duel, or try to pass her on the run, and she’ll calmly and deftly put you in your place. That’s ...