Mitch, what was the wind strength at the Aus Natls? In medium wind (to me that's 10-15 kts.) I might give it a try. Also, was the wind -steady- or gusty? That makes a big difference too. I sail on an inland lake where 10 knot gusts and 30 degree windshifts are common. Over at Gulfport where I go to race, they get alot of the same type wind. Out in the open ocean or in a large bay, you might get a smoother more consistant wind, that helps when going solo on the wire.