Thanks for the thoughtful response.
I am not (at the moment) so interested in racing, as much as enjoying the ride.
Sounds like a course board could bring some more fun to kiting at sub 13.
But who knows, if course racing came to St. Pete, I might become interested. I am doubtful that I would ever do well, but beating my own times is what my personality is all about, so I would most likely enjoy racing at an "friendly" level.
I know I would definitely enjoy course racing more than a downwind deal.