94 TEAMS RALLY FOR EVENT 3 OF MELGES 15 WINTER SERIES
Ninety-four teams are set to compete in the third event of the Melges 15 Winter Series, taking place February 22-23, 2025, at the newly opened Melges Watersports Center in Merritt Island, FL.
The regatta weekend kicks off with a one-day clinic on Friday, led by Class Coach Paris Henken and Melges Watersports Director, RJ Porter. Among the participants is 12-year-old Adi Lacroix (WI), who attended the previous two clinics and sails alongside her father, Josh.
“Adi absolutely loves Paris, her coaching style, and the overall clinic experience,” said Josh. “These clinics provide a great opportunity for learning and growth, maximizing time on the water. We believe they’ve been the highlight of the weekend. Adi even said she would come just for the clinics, regardless of whether there was a regatta or racing!”
Since opening in September 2024, the Melges Watersports Center has quickly become a hub for sailing and watersports. This weekend marks the ninth regatta hosted at the facility. In addition to competitive events, the Center offers educational opportunities such as foiling camps and introduction to racing classes. Members of the Center can also enjoy weeknight racing, and kayak and paddleboard rentals are available for hourly or daily use.
The Center maintains a fleet of charter boats, making it an accessible option for sailors traveling to the area. Morgan and Emily Paxhia (CA), part of the growing San Diego fleet, have taken advantage of the charter program just a week after the purchase of their new boat.
“Chartering was a great way to participate in an East Coast event while continuing to build our fleet in San Diego,” said Emily. “The Melges team makes the process incredibly easy. The Watersports Center is an outstanding platform for getting sailors on the water, no matter where they come from.”
Momentum is also building overseas, with the Melges 15 recently announced as the platform for the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club’s prestigious Endeavour Trophy this October in Essex, UK. The invitation-only event will feature some of Europe’s top sailing talent.
Overall Series frontrunner Cole Schweda (WI) holds a substantial lead and had a strong showing at last weekend’s Sailing World Regatta Series event in St. Petersburg, FL. Meanwhile, Leopold Brandl and Olivia Tuzel (NY), Jack Sutton and Austin Ando (SC), and Ryan Keenan and Ava Cohen (FL) are all aiming for a top-three position ahead of the Midwinter Championship in March.
The Winter Series Event 3 will feature two action-packed days of racing on February 22-23, with results, photos, and videos available at melges15.com. For more information about the Melges Watersports Center and its offerings, visit melgeswatersports.com.