In this paper we consider the Rational Large Eddy Simulation model recently introduced by Galdi and Layton. We briefly present this model, which (in principle) is similar to others commonly used, and we prove the existence and uniqueness of a class of strong solutions. Contrary to the gradient model, the main feature of this model is that it allows a better control of the kinetic energy. Consequently, to prove existence of strong solutions, we do not need subgrid-scale regularization operators, as proposed by Smagorinsky. We also introduce some breakdown criteria that are related to the Euler and Navier-Stokes equations.