I gave the H16 worlds website so those that are interested know where it is. This is going to be great event with a very large turnout.

You can race a H16 with a spinnaker in Europe as they just finished a couple of events there with spinnakers that were great success. The youth also got to sail the H16 with a spinnaker and all reports indicated the kids had a lot of fun, etc. So latest word is the H16 works exceptionally well with the new spinnaker system, and that more events are planned with H16's using spinnakers. Next sailing season these spinnaker systems will be available in North America, and I for sure plan to get one and race with it, even if it is in non-hobie regattas. Of course I will continue to race in standard H16 regattas.

As I understand it the top of a square top main twisting off is a good thing as in heavy winds it tends to self reef. I have a square top main on my H16 and for sure makes it faster and easier to handle in a blow.