Project
Working on a dream: in 2024, we – three Finnish boating instructors and sailors – got the inspiration of participating in the world's biggest annual offshore race, Gotland Runt. We started a year-long project to prepare for the race. In 2025, our double-handed crew sailed Gotland Runt safely positioning as 130/220. Further, our team was awarded with an honorary mention in the Best Media Crew category for outstanding communications and PR.
All this sparked the inspiration to keep going and head for Gotland Runt 2026.
Gotland Runt consists of 350 nautical miles offshore conditions and more than 60 hours of continuous sailing.
Maxi Racing Challenge was not born in calm waters, but the idea sparked in rough seas to remind us why we love the open sea so much. Ambition. Chase something bigger than only victory.
Crew
S/Y Relax is crewed by a four-person racing team and supported by its own ground communications manager. All members are experienced sailors.
• Sergej von Bagh, Captain – Finnish architect and CEO at BST-Architects
• Onni Hyttinen, Crew Member – Student of Engineering Psychology at Aalto University
• Terhi Ketola, Crew Member – Project Manager at Ramboll
• Ilari Pitkänen, Crew Member – Mechanical Designer at TH-TOOLS Oy
• Jutta Vetter, Ground Crew & Communications – CEO at Vetter Communications Ltd
boat
The boat, the Maxi999 sailing yacht S/Y Relax, was built in 1987. This racing cruiser has been completely restored and polished to excellent, modern classic condition. The boat’s new sails are designed and crafted by Rikard Bjurström, world champion in sailing the 2 mR class.
The boat model, Maxi 999, designed by the legendary Swedish sailor and yacht designer Pelle Petterson, was manufactured by Maxi Yachts from 1985 to 1991. In all, 600 units were built – S/Y Relax taking pride in carrying hull number 327.
The Maxi 999 is a 32.48-foot fractional sloop, a moderately weighted sailboat known for its performance. It is a stable and stiff yacht, suitable for both racing and cruising.
values
Minimizing environmental impact
Over the years, we have witnessed how the delicate balance of the Baltic Sea has been disrupted. We have realized that everything we do affects the environment that we love. We strive to minimize our environmental footprint while renovating our boat and sailing gear. We replace only the essential parts and recycle those that cannot be reused.
Emphasizing environmental awareness
As sailors, we commit to leaving nothing behind in nature. We sort all our waste and recycle whenever possible. Septic waste is always emptied at sewage pumping stations. By example, we also encourage others to rethink their operating habits.
Supporting responsible tourism
Since the beginning, environmental concerns have been important to our crew. Caring for the environment is an integral part of our ideology. We choose to support local, eco-friendly entrepreneurs in the archipelago by using their services.
contact
We would love to hear from you!
Embark on our adventures and feel free to send us a message, anytime. Please also follow us on our social media platforms.
If you're interested in joining us as a sponsor, partner or collaborator, we'd love to hear from you. For media inquiries, please reach out to us as well.