It is a copy without being a direct copy of the Capricorn mast. Nacra didn't do any research or pioneering in the area of wingmast. They waited to see how the Capricorn did with the alu wingmast and when it did well (= world champion) they rushed to get one true wingmast on their F18 themselves.

At least AHPC had put in some 20 years of experience and testing into their wingmasts for it to result in the Cap F18 mast; starting shortly after the Italian Sori mast (Lalo Petrucci) introduced the idea into the cat market. The F16 class of course, recognized the superiority of the wingmast immediately and never made the detour involving teardrop shape masts like some other classes. In fact the F16 class arranged a deal with AHPC in the first year of class existance to have other F16 builders use this section against cost.

Also removing the internal rib from the mast is not a major design step. The benefits of the wingmast are the result of its elliptical leading edge and its width to cord ratio.

With regard to F17 weights; I have my ways of inspecting official measurement certificates. By now you should have noted that I don't make UNSUPPORTED claims; goes against my character ! <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

Wouter