I would agree. I don't race any more but when I did, sails were the horsepower of the machine. Of course this depends on your racing style/desire to win at all costs. To quote an old friend/former North sail loft owner, "There is NOTHING on a boat that money can't make faster!" If you have true deep pockets then go for top of the line with no compromises. If, on the other hand, you want to race to be there and enjoy the spirit of the day, then cruising sails will do just fine.
When I raced 15 years ago on a Tartan 33R the owner, a close friend, owned a hot computer store and thought nothing of dropping three grand for a spinnaker because he thought we "needed" some help downwind. We did pretty well back then and in an Audi Race Week here on the Chesapeake we took first place in division for the week! My family could have vacationed in style for several months on the cost of that trophy, but it was fun to win. The sail maker was on board and either had the helm or was the trimmer the entire week. I learned plenty! But the number thing I learned was that racing is the most expensive way to own a boat. Today, I prefer to enjoy my sailing and the only "racing" I do is when I meet up with another weekend sailor on the same tack. Joe McCary Aeolus II #4795 West River, MD [EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] I'm afraid inexpensive race sails may be an oxymoron. Go for what you are happy looking at, and race as you will. I bought a triradial genoa from Cruising Direct (North mail order) and have been very happy. Go ahead and do the measurenments, even though they offer standard cuts for the Catalina 27. You may have different sheeting and furler arrangements than they assume. Peter Z Snagglepuss #2622
