When a well-conceived boat comes alongside on the proper time, sailors get excited and purchase in to the motion. This was the case with the Melges 24, and whereas the extent of competitors and dedication has confirmed to be considerably damaging throughout its historical past, the boat stays enjoyable to sail and actively raced. On this report by the category group, they have a good time its legacy:
Launched in 1993, constructed by Melges Efficiency Sailboats and designed by Reichel/Pugh, the Melges 24 skilled immediate success. It was awarded Crusing World Journal’s prestigious Boat of the 12 months in 1994, and by 1998, the Melges 24 turned massively widespread within the U.S. and throughout Europe leading to its first World Championship going down that yr in Torbay, UK.
“After a profitable 1992 America’s Cup marketing campaign, Buddy Melges and his workforce alongside American yacht designers John Reichel and Jim Pugh, produced what would change into and nonetheless stays the premier one-design sportboat on the planet. The Melges 24 has stood the check of time, and 30 years later it’s as related because it was in 1993,” says present U.S. Melges 24 Class President, Megan Ratliff, proprietor of Decorum, USA-805.
“Its excessive side foils and enormous sail plan coupled with its easy deck structure makes the boat simple and enjoyable to sail. The power to trailer low behind a station wagon, and ramp or hoist launch makes any venue interesting. Its hull form makes it thrilling in giant ocean swell and exhilarating on the flat waters of the inland lakes of the Midwest.”
“Near 900 boats have been produced worldwide and there are presently energetic fleets in 25 international locations. This Class attracts crusing’s prime skilled and newbie expertise which proceed to drive the category ahead. It’s an incredible boat that can undoubtedly proceed to be the premier one-design for many years to return.”
In celebration of the Melges 24’s thirtieth Anniversary, the U.S. Melges 24 Class developed a M24@30 emblem to mark the milestone. All through 2023, the USA and Worldwide organizations will likely be celebrating the anniversary, and return to its birthplace for the 2023 U.S. Nationwide Championship to be held on October 6-8 in Lake Geneva, WI.