Audi Melges 20 Winter Series - Messenger takes overall Corinthian

by Rhonda Joyce - Melges 20 Canada on 15 Mar 2013 The closing ceremonies for Bacardi Sailing Week ended on a high note for two Port Credit Yacht Club boats, which placed in the top three overall for the Audi Melges 20 Winter Series, Corinthian Division. On the aptly named Black Sheep, Jon Messenger took top honours winning first place. Brian and Melissa Hill’s Atlas, placed third for the series after finishing second in the Corinthian division during the regatta. By all accounts the Melges 20 fleet is an extremely competitive one so this is a big coup for both teams.

With this big win, Jon has been chosen as the first subject for the all new Audi Melges 20 Canada Profile Series.

Jon first began sailing at the age of nine at PCYC. Jon’s parents are members and thought Junior Sail may be a way to keep him busy (and out of trouble!) through the summers. For the next nine years he sailed Laser, Laser2 and I14 until he purchased his first J24. Jon competed in the J24 circuit for many years. During this time he also sailed Farr40s, M32s, J35s, Andrews 70, etc. until he took a short break from sailing to concentrate on growing his heating and air conditioning business. When he returned to sailing he continued to sail on other’s boats until (with the help of Mr. Mike Wolfs, a little too much Mount Gay Rum and some good persuasion) he purchased his M20 at the age of 30. Jon continues to sail his M20 with two of his closest friends throughout the summer on Lake Ontario and the winter in Miami.

AM20CAN: What do you like about the Audi Melges 20?

'This the most exciting and exhilarating boat I have ever sailed on. I had to have one. The boat, consisting of three crew, allows for all on board to contribute to the performance at all times. I think I can speak for my other two crew members, Mark Goodyear and Jeremy Edwards, that we all have an amazing time each and every time on the water.'

AM20CAN: What do you think of the Audi Melges 20 Winter Series in Miami?

'The winter series offers a venue where we can compete against a top notch group of pros and amateurs with a high caliber of skill, forcing us to always strive to improve our own performance. The Coconut Grove location never disappoints, the sailing is ALWAYS amazing and ALWAYS challenging. The Melges 20 group puts on a great series; well organized and well attended.'

AM20CAN: What do you think of the Melges 20 fleet?

'The fleet is the best. It’s a well rounded mix of pros and amateurs, men and women as well as young and old. Everyone seems to have a great passion for this boat and this fleet.'

AM20CAN: Will you do the winter series next year?

'…there would be nothing that would make us more happy than to attend the winter series again.'

AM20CAN: How do you feel about PCYC being awarded the first ever North American Championships for the Audi Melges 20?

'I think it’s fantastic. It’s a great opportunity to show off our club and bring the fleet together at an amazing venue. I’ve been sailing my entire life and visited many yacht clubs. I’m not saying this just because PCYC is my home club but PCYC will provide for an amazing North Americans and won’t disappoint.'