West Coast ramp up, Melges 24s head to nationals, PCCs and Worlds
by U.S. Melges 24 Class Association 25 May 2024 21:38 BST
July 12-14, 2024
The 2024 Melges 24 U.S. National Championship is scheduled for July 12-14, hosted by the Santa Barbara Yacht Club in Santa Barbara, CA USA © Hannah Lee Noll / US Melges 24 Class Association
Look out, California—here come the Melges 24s! With the Midwest One-Design Spring Championship now complete, all eyes and teams turn to the West Coast for three incredible Melges 24 regattas. First up is the 2024 U.S. National Championship, hosted by the Santa Barbara Yacht Club (SBYC) on July 12-14.
"The local Melges 24 fleet is thrilled to welcome competitors from around the country to the 2024 National Championship in Santa Barbara," says local fleet captain Jon Bell. "With the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains framing the scene along US-101, racing in July is picturesque. SBYC staff and volunteers host amazing events, and we're excited for the Class to experience what the American Riviera has to offer."
Designated as the sixth event on the North American Sailing Series, the U.S. Nationals kicks off a dynamic three-part West Coast racing series. Twenty-one teams are currently signed up to attend the three-day regatta. It is preceded by an educational and insightful tuning clinic on Thursday, July 11, sponsored by North Sails. On Saturday evening, SBYC will be buzzing as it hosts one of its legendary beach parties, boasting great food and live music against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. You don't want to miss this one!
"The U.S. Class is quite excited about getting out to the West Coast for some competitive Melges 24 racing," says Geoff Fargo, US Class Secretary and owner of Sentinel. "Last year, we were in Lake Geneva for our 30-year anniversary. This year, Santa Barbara gives us a nice change-up in locale and conditions to experience Melges 24 competition like never before."
"The vibe here in Southern California is unique and has its very own charm. The club and its members have graciously opened its doors and homes to many of the competitors. The race management will be second to none. We hope everyone that can make the event will. We promise you won't be disappointed!"
For friends and family traveling with teams, Santa Barbara stands out as one of Southern California's premier family vacation destinations. To ensure everyone enjoys the vibrant surroundings, SBYC has thoughtfully curated an 'All Things Santa Barbara' info sheet. Take a moment to review, and rest assured that organizers are on standby to provide assistance and ensure that every team's stay and racing experience is truly unforgettable.
On August 3-4, the action moves up the coast and over the bay for a proper Worlds warm-up—the Pacific Coast Championship (PCCs) at the Richmond Yacht Club. Racing for this event will take place almost in the exact same location as the World Championship, making it ideal for setup, tuning, and getting the team working like a well-oiled machine.
The 2024 Diversified® Melges 24 World Championship hosted by The San Francisco Yacht Club (SFYC) from August 17-24, promises to be one of the most spectacular Worlds ever held in the U.S. With 27 teams registered, intense competition and stellar onshore activities await. The Worlds is every Melges 24 sailor's dream, offering a unique opportunity to go head-to-head against top-tier opponents on the challenging waters of San Francisco Bay. Don't wait! Register now and be on the starting line.
And, we're not done yet. Before heading back East, consider our dear Melges 24 friends north of the border, the Canadian Melges 24 Class. They are hosting their 2024 National Championship on September 20-22 at the West Vancouver Yacht Club in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Register Online before July 31 to take advantage of the early entry fee.