I went out in wind blowing 20 kts and gusting to 25kts last weekend (Mar 4th to be exact) (I did *not* sail my F16, instead I sailed a Wave.) I capsized (several times) and was amazed at how fast the wind on the trampoline was able to push the boat away from me. At one point it almost turned the boat turtle, despite the hobie bob! At any rate, the boat was moving faster than I could swim. Fortunately, I was able to grab something each time (side stay or mainsheet.)

I expect that people don't like the idea of being tethered to their boats, the line would be inconvenient and possibly even cause a capsize, and I expect that in most winds such a line is unnecessary. Pete, I don't think it matters if that line is attached to a sea anchor or anything else, I'm guessing people don't like the idea of keeping such a line untangled with all the other lines we have to deal with. However, such a precaution seems prudent if in a distance event with heavy winds and out of site of land.