that's great and all (really), but is that within DESIGN windspeed?

Is a buoy race testing your ability to handle conditions beyond the design specifications of a boat?

In a more obtuse example, if your C20 max design windspeed is 20kts sustained, is it prudent for a PRO to start a buoy race in 25kts sustained, knowing the likelihood of equipment failure is notably higher?

I'm not sure, but would they start an F1 auto race in rain or gusty (15kt +) cross-winds, knowing that either of these conditions are outside of the design envelope?