Norm B.: Your experience after dropping the jib is interesting. I assume since there was a storm coming the winds were high. How would you describe the condition of your main? Is it new or blown out or somewhere in between? Thanks, steve Steve R. M-15 #119 Lexington, KY "Norm Bundek" wrote: <...> Last week end in vary rare thunderstorm, I attached the second boom vang in order to keep the rigging from being flogged senseless. Once attached and adjusted, the rigging was firm and secure. I saw the larger boats heading into the harbor so I decided to do the same. I turned into the wind (irons) and lowered the jib. To my amazement, the boat took off at about 3.9 kts (GPS) almost directly into the wind! I had the tiller centered with strong bungee cords. It held a steady course for about 5 minutes. The main was being held firmly in place with both boom vangs (port and starboard attached). Unfortunately, I was heading away from the harbor entrance and had to turn back to the harbor since the storm was getting very close. I lowered the main and motored into the harbor. I intend to try the main only sailing this weekend and pay more attention to the setup and upwind performance. I swear I was pointing only at only 10-20 degrees with the secured main - hands off! <...>