I am interested in hearing about the long term durability of the older Taipan 4.9's. When raced 7-8 years how do they do under the stain? What are the problems you have experienced? I am thinking of buying a used 4.9 from the mid 90's.

An idea of durability was the Nationals winner in Australia was sail number 56 and third was 51. Both well over 12 years old.

The boats last very well and still are very competitive at old ages. Main reason why you don't see the Aussie sailors upgrading their hulls every 3 or 4 seasons like other classes.

JC