RS500??

Originally posted by G.R.F Well personally, and we're all entitled to our opinions, I think the 49er leaves a lot to be desired. Especially in the light of the inability of a lot who sail it to even get it round corners without falling over. In fact design wise compared to windsurfing and kitesurfing even, modern dinghy design and build is still in the dark ages. Hardly surprising given y'all seem to worship Aussie boat designers.

Yeah i spose your right, i mean a nomex core carbon 14 is still way in the dark ages !!!!  And the foil technology on moths is ancient

That comment isn't really fair Graeme, lots of windsurfers leave a lot to be desired if your point is valid, i rarely ever see a windsurfer manage to tack or gybe. Indeed the top windsurfers manage fine as do the top 49er sailors but "most" who sail them can't manage.

And if your windsurfer designs are so advanced can you get one of them to build a twin trapeze monohull faster than the 9er for us, then we will believe you.

And since he was the weather guru for the Olympic Australian team he did most of his data collection at the big international venues - most of which are in the northern hemisphere.

If there is anybody who's opinion we should respect he is at the top of the list!