I've asked this before and I'm dying to know.  Can an M17 REALLY outrun a Catalina 22' in a deliberate race?  I would guess the Catalina has a longer waterline, lighter displacement for its waterline and deeper centerboard.  The Catalina also has a racing pedigree.  Could, for instance, Tom VanAtta and Jerry Montgomery in a properly equipped M17 outrun a race-equipped Catalina 22' skippered by an experienced racer?
 
----- Original Message -----
From: Saltm17@aol.com
To: montgomery_boats@mailman.xmission.com
Sent: Wednesday, February 12, 2003 2:01 PM
Subject: Boom Bale/Vang for M17
 
I have a boom vang and I use it a lot when I race.  It keeps the boom from lifting when on a run thus reducing effective sail area.  It isn't necessary to have one on a M17 but I sometimes use it when recreational sailing (especially when "racing" Catalina 22s *L*), and I like to have it onboard as an emergency back up to the main sheet.

John M Edwards
Miss T
M17 # 372