Melges 15 Class Prepares for Final Showdown of 2023 Winter Series

The Melges 15 Class is in Jensen Beach, FL for the Midwinter Championship, the third of the 2023 Winter Series. Sixty-seven boats are set to compete at the final event in what has been a record-breaking season for participation. 

More than 100 teams from 25 states traveled south to compete in the series. But it’s not just mass registration that has drawn media attention, it’s the diversity of the sailors. At the previous event, 60% of the top 10 teams were female sailors and 40% of those same teams were in the 50+ divisions.

“The camaraderie within this class is unmatched and it’s great to see such diversity within the fleet. Husbands sailing with their wives, kids with their parents, college students, the list goes on,” said Allison Simkins, who sails with her husband Brian. “Not coming from a sailing background, the M15 has been a great introduction to the competitive sailing environment. It’s one of the most friendly and welcoming groups that I’ve been a part of.”

With sales booming globally, Melges is celebrating nearly 600 Melges 15s sold since May 2020. The newest fleet to join the frenzy is based in Dublin, Ireland. With the worldwide launch and boats readily available, overseas event planning is underway.  

Follow the action from the three-day event starting Friday, March 24 on the Melges Facebook and Instagram accounts. Results will be posted to Regatta Network. Learn more about the Melges 15 Class and read daily recaps on Melges15.com.