Answer:
I believe the best optimist sailboats are the boats that gets kids on the water. When my son started in the sport he sailed an old club optimist but he fell in love with sailing. When he started racing he needed a lighter faster boat with better components. Most kids that race end up buying good equipment. I find it will cost more in bits and pieces but that decision is yours to make.
I think if you do your homework and speak with several builders you'll find the best boat for your sailor.