Calling all Alto sailors!

I remember seeing this boat during the race, it's a nice looking boat with a big sail plan and plenty waterline length.  It looks nothing like the original Alto which was little more than bits of very old 505 with a big assymetric kite, the production model is altogether a more purposeful beast. 

What I couldn't understand is how can this boat enter a handicap race when it doesn't, as far as I am aware, have a handicap (other than the recommendation of the builder and based on the performance of an old 505)?

Does anyone know what handicap was used during the Sheppey race?  Could be a candidate for handicap bandit list, in fact, that's probably my next post!

Most new boats are produced in much larger numbers than the Alto, go through thorough development stages and are therefore sailed by a larger cross section of sailors.  This allows for relatively quick barometer to be established.  My understanding is that this Alto is a one off.

What would have happened if they had won the Sheppey?

And the Py's set by the Big manf. arnt part of their marketing tool then ??!!!!

The alto isnt a one off its being produced by Rondar, suggesting its a one off means that there is no scope of building another!!