Three weeks ago we were out with our training partner in 20-25 gusting over 30. Really raised the confidence level. We didn't hoist the kite, but our partner boat did. They pitchpoled, righted, and kept sailing. Both of us gained a lot of experience and considering we've only been sailing the boat a year, I was happy that my wife was willing to go out, and we are both way better off because we did. Last weekend when the wind built to 20, we felt totally confident, and we knew what to do to make the boat settle down. And thats why you go out in the upper wind limits.

Look the fact is the AC is considered by many to be the pinnacle of the sport. At that level of sailing, you better have your **** together. The Tri was a one off build that couldn't be replaced. The 45's are series production one design boats, with more on the way and common parts and pieces. Big difference. They cost a tiny fraction what the tri did.

Whats amazing is that they didn't damage the wing more than a little bit. This is showing more and more that the wings are more durable than many people thought.