Italia Yachts 9.98 ‘Relentless III’ took second place in Key Biscayne Yacht Club’s 54th Round the Island Race on April 10, 2021.
It was a fantastic day on the water for the crew of ‘Relentless III’ – conditions were perfect for the race, with about 15-20 knots of breeze out of the southeast and blue skies.
Sea conditions were choppy, but the boat was very easy to handle; once we got a good angle and had the reaching kite up, the boat accelerated very nicely. The challenge with this particular race is the narrow channel and extremely shallow water on both sides.
‘Relentless III’ will also participate in the Miami to Key Largo Regatta on April 24-25. Competitors will race on both days, from Miami to Key Largo on the first day and back to Miami on the second day.
The goal is to win, emphasized Oscar Valdes, the owner of ‘Relentless III,’ and have fun! The eight crew on Relentless III will include several experienced sailors who have completed this race in previous years, as well as a few first-timers.
Preparation will be essential- as with any distance race, and tactics and navigation will be a huge factor in performance. As boats get further south, the wind tends to be shifty due to the geographic conditions.
When asked about the challenges that the crew can expect during the Key Largo Race, Oscar explained, “We will have to take care navigating narrow channels, and communication will be a key factor in success.”
“Everyone needs to be on the same page, and constant communication is critical. Teamwork is crucial, as always. We have a great dynamic on this boat, and it will be an exciting race for sure,” commented tactician Mark Shortz.
We are certainly turning heads in Miami, and the program is taking off – the Italia 9.98 is an exceptionally well-designed boat, and with every race, we improve consistently.
I am thrilled to be a part of the crew on ‘Relentless III’ and proud to represent David Walters Yachts and the Italia Yachts brand here in South Florida.
Stay Tuned for live updates during the race to Key Largo!
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