Wow, Larry, what kind of gale were you sailing in? The only time I have broached in my M-17 was when we were carrying a 135% genoa and full main on a downwind leg in a driving rainstorm in a club race last fall. We got hit by a gust clocked by another boat in the fleet at 39 kt, and rounded up with the coaming in the water, taking a gallon or so into the cockpit, but we recovered quickly. Sailed the rest of the way downwind under main alone, reefed at the leeward mark and sailed the last windward leg with reefed main and partially furled jib under good control. That experience gave me awesome respect for the M-17's dusty weather capabilities, and its ability to "bring you home" under almost any conditions. Rick M-17 #633 Lynne L ************** A Good Credit Score is 700 or Above. See yours in just 2 easy steps! (http://pr.atwola.com/promoclk/100126575x1222846709x1201493018/aol?redir=http...; hmpgID=115&bcd=JulystepsfooterNO115)