Les,

You're correct that the F16 in sloop config. rates slower than the F18.

Wouter's description of it being on equal footing to the F18 is based on some international? rating methods. (Texel and one other). Based on those handicapping formula, the F16 sloop rates nearly straight up with an F18 and the F16 uni matches the A Cat.

Of course, this is all based on math and computer models and other BS. However, I hope that when I start lobbying to race the F18 guys straight up, that they won't be afraid of the slower boat.

Jeff.