F17 sailors normally do not trap while buoy racing. It's much better to stay on the tramp area someplace and go lower.

However, if the wind is right during a distance race, we do trap out and cleat off the spinnaker so that we can work the traveler. But, you may want to get used to spin sailing before trying this!! Also, only do it in protected waters where you can make it to shore if you get separated from the boat. You can attain some pretty high speeds like this and, if you pitchpole, it can be quite violent.

Tom Turlington
F17 #124