You really think it's the boats and does not have anything to do with who is driving? Right now all the best sailors are on the F18. A true test is to have them rotate boats in a trial setup and see if they still should rate the same.

Sailing thru the surf you have to put some board down as soon as possible. Even if it is only 10-12 inches. Windward board works as well as the leeward. That way the crew can raise and lower from the high side.