use thickened epoxy and it shouldn't be a huge issue. Might need a couple coats though.
Thought about that, that is using some colloidal silica to thicken it up, still thinking I'll need some sort of backing.
How about cutting out a piece of suitable backing material that will fit through the hole, put a string through in, slide into hole, pull against holes, apply epoxy, cut off string.
Actually thinking of this, have some pieces that I had cut off the luff channel to accomidate the new downhaul system as they may be a good candidae for the backing.
I'll let you know if I go this way - thanks!