2024-25 Melges 15 Winter Series launches with 66 teams
by Morgan Kinney 25 Nov 2024 06:27 PST
Melges 15 Winter Series © Andrew Jowett / Melges Performance Sailboats
The Melges 15 Class successfully launched the 2024-25 Winter Series at the Melges Watersports Center in Merritt Island, Florida with a new November event the weekend before Thanksgiving. Attracting 66 teams from across the nation, this debut event marked a fantastic start to the season.
Ahead of the weekend's regatta, Class Coach Paris Henken hosted an intensive two-day racing clinic, drawing over 20 teams for on-water drills in winds up to 25 knots and shoreside debriefs. Using video footage captured by drones and coach boats, sailors received detailed feedback to refine their skills.
"The level of coaching was top-notch. We felt like we went from total baseline in the boat to having a good idea of what we could work on to improve," said Jeff Daigle (Annapolis, MD). "We have a long way to go together, but we're coming off the water with smiles and excited to be on the water."
The Melges 15 fleet embraced its new home at the Melges Watersports Center, situated on the Banana River. This expansive, sheltered venue offers year-round opportunities for racing, clinics, and recreation. With direct beach access, launching, and racing just offshore, the location has been celebrated for its convenience and exceptional sailing conditions.
"To be able to step on and go sailing... Nothing beats that," David O'Connor (San Diego, CA). O'Connor chartered a Melges 15 with his wife, Eve, earning top couple, and participated in the clinic while enjoying local attractions like Kennedy Space Center.
The weekend featured four competitive races on Saturday, followed by a day of celebration on Sunday. Cole Schweda and Brent Penwarden took top honors and earned top youth (under 21) with 17 points, followed closely at 19 points by top female Emily Haig and Zoe Fisher, and top couple Erik and Aly Storck rounded out the podium with 30 points.
After a strong start to the Winter Series, the next event is scheduled for January 4. Stay updated on results, photos, and videos at melges15.com. For more information about the venue, visit melgeswatersports.com.