Wendy:

17 just has a different setup for pin and mast goes up sideways. I am 210 and have never really tried it alone. I have just made it a deal to NEVER sail alone. It is VERY dangerous, so there is always someone to help you raise the mast. 17 is a fun boat. WHATEVER one you get I would get a righting pole setup up from Rick White. Where are you located? I am going boat at Ocean Springs May 28-29 if you want to see a 4.3,

Doug Snell
www.tcdyc.com