Melges 20 U.S. National Championship Day 1

by Melges media on 22 Aug 2009
The enthusiasm surrounding the Macatawa Bay Yacht Club in Holland, Mich. at the Audi Melges 20 U.S. National Championship, title sponsored by Audi and supported by official footwear sponsor Sebago is electric.

The all-new Audi Melges 20 has attracted sailors from all over the world to participate at the very first Nationals, but also witness the start of something new and exciting - Melges Racing!

The Championship has drawn fifteen boats. The majority of the entrants reside in the U.S. with three international entries - two from Italy and one from Canada. Although the fleet is small to start, the goal in years to come is 100 Audi Melges 20s on the starting line. With the excitement currently generated by Audi Melges 20 owners in the U.S.A. and all over the world, it's only a matter of time before this becomes reality.

Racing was scheduled to commence today however, due to big breeze exceeding the class maximums teams were left on shore chomping at the bit. Instead, the fleet settled in around half-past five for a cocktail party hosted by Macatawa Bay Yacht Club with live music by Good Gravy.

Saturday's forecast is far more promising. Conditions are expected to be ideal with a northwesterly breeze around 10-15 knots and an attempt at five races.

Audi Melges 20 U.S. National Championship Entry List
1.) Amy Todd - Grand Rapids, Mich. USA
2.) Benedetto Giallongo - Rome, Italy
3.) Chuck Holzman - Southfield, Mich. USA
4.) Dan Cheresh - Holland, Mich. USA
5.) Dave Hammett - Annapolis, Md. USA
6.) Eric Wynsma - East Grand Rapids, Mich. USA
7.) Erik Post - Macatawa, Mich. USA
8.) Joe Williams - Mercer Island, Wash. USA
9.) John Arendshorst - Holland, Mich. USA
10.) John Sherlock - Port Credit, Canada
11.) Marc Hollerbach - Grosse Pointe, Mich. USA
12.) Marco Morina - Rome, Italy
13.) Michael Kiss - Holland, Mich. USA
14.) Pieter Taselaar - New York, N.Y. USA
15.) Steve Rhyne - Seabrook, Tx. USA