I dont know the details around this years Texel race, I just watched the video coverage posted on the internet. However if there are two different windsystems, getting into the right system is vital. If I remember correctly there was a convergence zone this year where you had to choose to go close to land or further out. Mitch Booth on his carbon-fantastic-Hobie-Fox choose the wrong side (went out from the shore) and lost the M-20s there. Both leading M-20s went towards the shore and got the best conditions. Coming from behind and being able to see what is happening in front is a massive advantage, enabling you to position yourself so you can avoid the largest "vacuum" spots.
Agree that in low wind conditions the M20 should be favoured with it's taller rig and light weight.
Most of the Dutch M20's seem to have converted to a sloop rig now. They add a bridle foil and everthing is dandy. Also how much additional glass do you need in each hull to withstand the bridle loads ? The vertical loads on the hulls are much the same, only the sideways ones increase. 5 kg per hull at max ? 10 kg in total ? A jib sized at 25 % of the mainsail will add about 5 to 8 times as much performance to the boat then reducing the weight by 10 kg. So if you had to decide as an engineer you would choose the jib.
Why are the M20s converting to sloop setups? Breakage or more versability in distance racing?
If sailarea is unlimited, it's a no-brainer. With limited sailarea it's a bit more unlcear. The C-class dont have a minimuim weight, so they are crazy about weight. The A-class used to have 90kgs (?) min weight, but went down to 75kgs later on. Less weight on the boat (and crew) is generally faster. In addition a taller rig with higher aspect ratio is more efficient use of the available sailarea. But it boils down to one of your favourite adagios "it's all about ratios"..
