I want to thank all of you for responding. The information is very valuable. While the umbrella concept looks interesting, I think I will pass on looking like Mary Poppins on the race course!

Rick; Something you yelled at me when taking your sailing seminar many years ago relates to this topic. I was sailing my Inter 18 too deep heading for the downwind mark. I believe your exact words were, 'head up, you aren't sailing a Wave'. I forgot that bit of wisdom until I read your post today.

thanks to all.
Bob Klein