I think the F17 would fly downwind on the trap! I think it has more bouyancy up front than an F16 so it would probably be easier to do (but then again, maybe the gains are less then also). I don't think Fad recommends it, but he is always at the front during a race anyway so he doesn't have to haul butt to try to make up ground for stupid mistakes (like my famous tendency to triple tack within 50 yds of a mark or the finish!!!).
maybe there are other reasons he doesn't like trapping out downwind, like ...well... I can't say it!