Along with a C&C 27, we also have a Cal 20 that we cherish. It was a roadside boat for about 8 years, but three months of work brought it back into great shape. We posted a series of photo galleries about the restoration at
Cal 20 Restoration
We're biased, of course, but we think Cal 20s are excellent starter boats for someone who can do some work on an older boat. Ours cost only $600 to begin, and it's been great for my wife and son to master together.
So, if you see a neglected Cal 20, try to let others know about it. Some are too far gone, but others are worth the while if they're half-way complete. It's also fun to see racing pictures from the Cal 20 fleet in SF in Latitude 38.
Jim H