<img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

First, let me apologize for misspelling your name. By the time I noticed, it was too late to edit the error. <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />

As regards distance racing, I think most everyone will agree I-20 is the first and best choice. F18s have fuller bows and generally will handle bigger waves more easily than the F16s, or so I'm told. As an unapologetic fair weather sailor, I generally avoid high wind and big waves! I use plenty of adrenaline at work. My goal on the water is to destress. <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

IMO, the strengths of the F16 are it's light weight, versatility for 1 or 2 up sailing and the performance of a stock spinnaker.

In the end though, I think it just comes down to personal taste. Some people like chocolate, others like vanilla.

Happy Holidays!