It's a combination of the newer, better sails, light wing mast that you can feather into the wind, max out the downhaul, pulling the boards up was a big part of it and traveler down. You can really flatten the sail out and keep it under control I have found, sailing alone in big wind from time to time. Great summation and good on you for standing by the H16 and helping them get upright.

I have been amazed at the wind I have been able to survive on my Blade, all the stuff you talked about is key though, and you really want to max out that downhaul if you are racing uwpind, I found a "new gear" when I really, really cranked it on.

I pulled with both hands and bent my knees and did a stand-up squat, until the battens went backwards, then backed it off just a smidge, but I had to release some more every time I tacked, as the mast wouldn't come over if I didn't!

Yeah, it was bent. Seriously bent. But that sail was FLAT! Ask Andi. ;^) I love that mast! And the boat too. I think I'll go wash it...again.