ZENDA, W.I. — The Melges 15 Class Association in association with Little Egg Harbor Yacht Club will welcome sailors from around the world September 16-19, 2027 for the inaugural Melges 15 Gold Cup, marking a major milestone for one of sailing’s fastest-growing classes.
Set against the waters of New Jersey’s Little Egg Harbor, the championship will bring together top Melges 15 teams from around the globe for several days of high-level competition, camaraderie, and celebration. As the first-ever Gold Cup for the class, the event is expected to draw an impressive international fleet and showcase the Melges 15’s unique combination of performance, accessibility, and modern design.
“We are thrilled to host the inaugural Melges 15 Gold Cup International Championship at Little Egg Harbor Yacht Club,” said Andy Burdick, President of Melges Performance Sailboats. “This event represents an exciting new chapter for the Melges 15 class. We look forward to welcoming competitors, families, and supporters for an exceptional championship next fall.”
Since its introduction, the Melges 15 has earned widespread enthusiasm among sailors of all ages and skill levels for its competitive racing, responsive handling, and strong emphasis on fun and inclusivity. The Gold Cup International Championship is expected to build on that momentum, offering competitors a premier stage to test themselves against elite teams in a world-class regatta environment.
Little Egg Harbor Yacht Club, known for its longstanding tradition of excellence in sailing and race management, hosted the inaugural Melges 15 regatta in 2020. It is fitting that the club take on the class's first Gold Cup. With a rich history of organizing distinguished regattas and a vibrant sailing community, the club is well positioned to deliver an outstanding experience both on and off the water.
"LEHYC embraced the Melges 15 when it was released in 2020. It's incredible to see how the class has grown world wide. Welcoming international sailors to our club and race course for the inaugural Melges 15 Gold Cup is an honor. We can't wait to see you in Beach Haven,” said PJ Vaughan, Commodore of LEHYC.
Event organizers anticipate a full schedule of racing, social gatherings, and championship festivities throughout the event, giving sailors and guests the opportunity to experience the hospitality and competitive spirit that define both the Class and Little Egg Harbor Yacht Club.
US berths for the Gold Cup will be based on a series of qualifying events, while the international teams will be accepted via an application process. Details on the qualification process and events for the United States, as well as the international application form are available at https://melges15.com/pages/melges-15-gold-cup
Additional event details, including registration information, schedule, and accommodations, will be announced in the coming months.
About Melges Performance Sailing
Melges is a leading performance sailboat and powerboat supplier that has proudly delivered high-quality boats around the world since 1945. Headquartered in Zenda, Wisconsin, the business is also home to the North Sails Zenda Loft. Innovation, performance, quality, and passion are the hallmarks of the Melges brand.
About Little Egg Harbor Yacht Club
Little Egg Harbor Yacht Club, located in Beach Haven, New Jersey, is one of the country’s premier sailing clubs, with a distinguished history of competitive sailing, junior development, and community engagement. The club has long been recognized for its commitment to excellence on the water and its welcoming atmosphere ashore.