I didn’t have much experience in heavy-weather sailing, but REDWING was designed to sail safely in strong winds. Both sails have two reefs, and the masts are unstayed and bend to spill the wind. I built the hull and I know it is strong. But the Texas 200 is not a race. I could set sail when I felt comfortable to do so; if I sailed conservatively and took care of REDWING, she would take care of me.