I haven't sailed an F17 in almost two years, but don't you think if it was so fast the guys sailing them at Midwinters would have been doing it if it worked so well............??
No, as there are many other reasons to not trap downwind even if its VMG is actually better.
It also dependents alot on boat setup in my opinion and personal preference. I (Taipan F16) for example am much faster on the hull hiking then on the trapeze under spinnaker (when 1-up that is) but I'll believe without a shred of doubt that Gary (Aussie Blade F16) is much faster while trapped then sitting in.
Wouter
Wouter Hijink Formula 16 NED 243 (one-off; homebuild) The Netherlands
