Melges boat owners are enthusiastically coming out of the slow 2020 sailing season with a strong start for 2021. Many sailors have been spurred on by the launch of the brand new Melges 15 boat. Their eyes are on the 2021 Helly Hansen NOOD Regatta at St. Petersburg, Florida on April 2-4. Nothing tells the sailing world that a fleet is serious about racing and growing like gathering a large fleet on a national regatta stage.
Currently there are two Melges classes trying to organize for the NOOD—the new Melges 15s and the Melges 24s. The Melges 15s committed so far will be arriving from across the East Coast—Maryland, Georgia, Florida, and Michigan. The group is excited to have the numbers to fleet and have their own start at the event. The Melges 24s have likewise attracted sailors from Florida and Georgia so far. The 24s have enjoyed a resurgence in interest and numbers over the last year in the NOOD. They hope to keep that wave going for 2021. It is still early in the registration period and owners rallying for others to show up to the starting line.
It looks like the new Melges 15 owners are working hard and helping each other to make a strong showing at the St. Pete NOOD. Hopefully, gathering at the Florida NOOD will become a yearly class activity, just like their Melges 24 counter parts who have been gathering there since 1999.
After Colorado’s Melges 15 fleet arrives, we hope to see our sailors will trailor up, head down, and join in the winter fun for future NOODs. Florida is already a popular winter escape for our high altitude lake sailors who look for more sailing outside of their short Colorado seasons. 180 Marine will be a continued resource for our Colorado Melges sailors to help organize and facilitate the fleet’s racing and traveling ambitions.
If you’re interested in knowing more about Melges boats or events in Colorado contact Richard Allen / richard@180marine.com
Authorized Rocky Mountain Melges Dealer for Melges 14, 15, 20, and 24
