I've actually had limited time on the water so far, but based on a small amount of experience against two 17s - I feel I have equal or better straight-line speed against one of the guys I sail with, though well beaten around the course just on sailing skill. The other guy is Jim Young. If I manage to get close to him sometime I'll let you know how I do <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />.