Interesting and provocative discussion guys...seems non-comptip mast sails may, at times, be recut to better match the bend characteristics of the comptip and result in a faster performing platform. OK sounds plausible.

Now, if a newest technology sail material & cut were designed (ie., square top or whatever) to optimize a given boats performance would it be enhanced, or otherwise, on a H17 comptip mast?

That mast does not have diamond wires. I believe, all together different than the TheMightyHobie18 and the H20.

Consider open fleet and with all due respect to class racing rules.

It has been interesting to research the evolution of the Toronado class with masts & sails into higher performing boats.

Again, being that the H17 is near and dear to my heart (a big thank you to Hobie for continuing to build the boat, I am a fan!) would/could the governing association ever be petitioned to allow modifications to a higher level of performance? A stretch, I know, but only wondering.

Sail on, Tom G

PS. Feel free to share any pics available from the carbon fiber hang glider incident...:)?