Record 112 Teams Set to Compete at Melges 15 Winter Series Event 2
The Melges 15 Class is celebrating another milestone at the 2024-25 Winter Series Event 2 January 4-5, drawing a record-breaking 112 registered entries—the largest turnout in class history. Hosted at the new Melges Watersports Center in Merritt Island, FL, this regatta marks a new chapter of growth and excitement for the dynamic fleet.
Coming off a strong start at Event 1 in November, which drew 66 teams, this second event has nearly doubled in participation, showcasing the mass appeal of the Melges 15. Sailors from across the country—spanning youth, women, couples, and seasoned racers—will come together for a weekend of world-class racing and camaraderie.
“This level of turnout is incredible and speaks to the energy and enthusiasm surrounding the Melges 15,” said Eddie Cox, Melges. “With over 100 boats on the line, this event is a showcase of the mass appeal of the Melges 15 and how suitable the Melges Watersports Center is for large fleets.”
Nestled on Florida’s scenic Space Coast, the Melges Watersports Center provides direct beach access, easy launching, and consistent wind conditions, earning high praise from participants.
“Racing here is a dream,” said Ella Wisely (MN). “It’s easy to focus on performance when everything runs so smoothly, and the atmosphere is so welcoming.”
With 112 Melges 15s, the level of competition is expected to reach new heights. Top performers from Event 1—including Cole Schweda, Emily Haig, and Leopodl Brandl—are set to return alongside a host of new challengers eager to make their mark.
The Melges 15 Class has long been celebrated for its diversity and multigenerational appeal. This event in particular showcases 25% youth skippers, 25% parent-child teams, 20% female skippers, and 40% of skippers over the age of 50.
“The fleet’s diversity is part of what makes this class so special,” said Scott Barbano (NJ). “It’s exciting to see so many sailors from different backgrounds coming together for an event of this scale.”
Teams are traveling from 22 states and Canada to compete. Driving more than 1,000 miles from Houston, TX, Sean Curry is attending his first Melges 15 Winter Series event.
“I moved to Texas last year and have been really interested in the Melges 15 from the start. Now, I’m the fleet captain at Houston Yacht Club, and one of our fellow members was kind enough to help send a team here,” Curry said. “Normally, I race keelboats, but even then, it’s nothing like this fleet. I haven’t seen a lineup like this since junior sailing.”
Event 2 will feature two action-packed days of racing, with results, photos, and videos shared on melges15.com. For more information about the Melges Watersports Center and its offerings, visit melgeswatersports.com.