Exactly Rolf,

Sometimes I do catch myself staring at the leeward hull sidestay putting for long periods of time when under spinnaker. I always reprimant myself for it because you also have to look out for other boats and changing conditions around you, but still ...

It is exactly one of the best times for me on the F16. Boat being an extension of the arm etc.

The only thing to be careful about is the possibility of having two gust superimposed on eachother with the first arrive just ahead of the second. I sense the curvature of the first and steer to it but often fail to sense the second. It is most hard when the second hits on the downturn of the first without the first having completed its downslope. I'm heading up at that time riding the downslope when you actual want to stay low or bear off more for the second gust coming.

But I'm getting better at that as well !

Indeed, it feels alot like Zen meditation ! <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Feel the wind Grasshopper !

Wouter