Melges 15 Winter Series Debuts at New Merritt Island Venue

The Melges 15 Class has launched the 2024-25 Winter Series at the Melges Watersports Center in Merritt Island, Florida. This November event, a brand-new addition to the series, has attracted 66 teams from across the nation, marking a strong start to the season.

Kicking off the week, Class Coach Paris Henken led an intensive two-day racing clinic, where over 20 teams participated in on-water drills and training sessions. Each day concluded with shoreside debriefs featuring video footage, offering sailors in-depth performance analysis.

“The coaches had drones and coach boats, and were always behind us telling us what to do and where to make corrections,” explained Dale Gordon (Madison, WI). “Then we came back, watched the footage and the coaches explained everything. It was unbelievable feedback. We’re so thankful that we had this opportunity.”

The Melges 15 fleet is settling into its new home at the Melges Watersports Center, located on the Banana River. This expansive, sheltered waterway is ideal for small boats, windsurfing, foiling, and human-powered watersports. The center offers year-round opportunities for clinics, racing, and recreation, with direct beach access for launching and racing just a short distance offshore.

“We’re thrilled to race at this stunning venue,” said Jennifer Cregar (Sarasota, FL). “It’s beautiful, convenient, and offers phenomenal sailing conditions.”

The two-day regatta runs Saturday-Sunday, November 23-24. Stay updated on race results, photos, and videos by visiting melges15.com. For more information about the venue, head to melgeswatersports.com.