The breeze finally decided to make an appearance for day three of the NYYC Annual Regatta presented by Rolex, and it was a welcome change for the Bella Mente Racing Team which took first place overall in the IRC 1 class.

Rolex / Daniel Forster

“This weekend was all about us getting the systems back in place for a year of intense mini maxi racing,” said the team’s crew boss Mike Sanderson. “Everything from when we wake up in the morning to debriefing when we get off the water has to be a smooth and efficient system for the team to achieve its best. This weekend it was great to have the extremely fast Rambler and the well-rated Caol Ila R to compete against.

“Although the weather gods didn’t play ball with us, the race committee did an amazing job and we ended up with two decent races, and better then that we learned a huge amount about the configuration that we have put the boat in for this year.

“I have to take this opportunity to thank Pete (boat captain), Rob (project manager) and the shore team for getting the boat back in perfect condition,” added Sanderson, “and of course Hap for having us all involved in what is going to be a very exciting year in the world of Bella Mente.”

This Friday, the team will embark on the Newport Bermuda Race before heading across the Atlantic to embark on its European circuit, which includes the 33rd Copa del Rey MAPFRE in August, the Mini Maxi Rolex World Championship in September and the Rolex Middle Sea Race in October.