Melges 24 Nationals

SUMMER HEAT LEADS TO UNEXPECTED RESULTS AT NEWPORT CHAMPIONSHIP
Some Surprised, Some Frustrated In Light Wind Start to National Regatta

Photo Credit: Meredith Block
NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND (JUNE 25, 2010) - With a solid 12 knots of wind rushing off the land on Friday morning, competitors at the 2010 Layline/Oakcliff Sailing Melges 24 US National and Melges 32 Northeast Championships were ready for serious action by the time they left the dock at 9:30 for the first day of this prestigious event.  Little did they know that the solid land breeze would evaporate into nothing by the end of the first race, replaced with an unstable sea breeze that kept world-class tacticians guessing all day.

US Sailing Team member Genny Tulloch raced across the ocean in order to race with Guy Mossman aboard Battle Rhythm, flying from her Kiel, Germany women's match racing event to Newport just yesterday to make the start on time.  "The conditions today were actually very similar to what we saw last week in Kiel - constantly changing and very unpredictable," Genny said.  "But over there, you could see what was coming to you by watching the water, while today in Newport the big ones seemed to arrive completely unannounced, the wind never reaching the water."

Those conditions favored the brave, the lucky, and the local; leading the Melges 24 fleet is Newport's own JC Raby, who consistently handled the light breeze well.  "There was enough chop to require really active weight management on the boat, and we were lucky to have great starts that made staying in the front pack a lot easier," he said.  Perennial favoriter Alan Field's "WTF" follows by two points, while Annapolis light air specialist Henry Filter on "Wild Child" ended the day with a dominant victory, putting him just one point behind Field.

Two Northeast-based boats sit near the front of the pack in the hot Melges 32 Class, with Jason Carroll's "Argo" (New York, NY) and Jim Schwarz's "Q" (Edgartown, MA) scoring strong finishes to hold second and third behind the powerful performance of the all-star Midwestern crew of "Full Throttle." "Today was a little crazy out there, and we got some lucky breaks by being in good position when the wind shifts came through," said Argo strategist Molly Baxter.  Baxter cited another advantage for the team: "We just took delivery of our new boat, and it is really fast!"  Argo's success comes in spite of losing superstar bowman Ben Bardwell, who suffered an injury in a recent race. "Our biggest stroke of luck might have been finding San Diego's Matt Cassidy available to replace Ben at the last possible minute," she explained.  Fleet newcomer Malcolm Gefter took his last-place position in pride during a lavish cocktail party the "Celeritas" skipper hosted at his classic stone-built Newport estate on Friday night.  "As long as we're learning how to overcome our mistakes, we're doing well," he said.  "And we learned plenty today."

One of the biggest challenges for organizers during unstable wind patterns is setting proper courses for the races, something that the Principal Race Officer Tom Duggan did flawlessly.  "The PRO couldn't have performed better today in this weather," said Full Throttle tactician Andy Burdick, echoing the sentiments of the combined fleets.  Sail Newport Executive Director Brad Read emphasized the non-profit organization's commitment to quality race management with pride.  "Whether it's a Melges 32 or Optimist dinghy, we are lucky to be able to provide some of the best Race Officers to manage it," he said.  "And we were fortunate to have Tom Duggan keeping things honest today - in my opinion, he's one of the best in North America."

The full entry list is here, and the Melges 32 crew list can be found here.

Classic Newport Conditions On Call For Saturday

Settled weather should blanket the course on Saturday, with a moderate sea breeze forecasted to hold throughout the day. This should help even out some outlying scores, and give teams the opportunity to break some of the many tie scores on the course.  Racing begins at 11:00 a.m. and at least three races are likely. 

Full results for the Melges 24 Nationals Championship can be found at this link, while the Melges 32 NE Championship scores are here. The full entry list is here, and the Melges 32 crew list can be found here.

ABOUT THE SPONSORS
The 2010 Melges 24 National Championship is graciously supported and encouraged by the following businesses. The U.S. Melges 24 Class Association (USMCA) is especially grateful to title sponsors Layline and Oakcliff Sailing Center.

LAYLINE
The 'Original Performance Sailing Retailer', for over 20 years, Layline is back with a new vigor to provide sailors with the absolute best in custom rigging, gear, and sailing apparel. Layline is proud to be the Title Sponsor and Official Supplier of Gear and Rigging of the 2010 Layline Oakcliff U.S. Melges 24 Nationals as well as the Platinum Sponsor of the U.S. Optimist Class, Official Supplier to their U.S. National Team and Title Sponsor of the 2010 USODA Layline Nationals. Visit layline.com to learn more.

OAKCLIFF SAILING CENTER
The Oakcliff Sailing Center, located in Oyster Bay, NY offers a growth path for sailors who are serious about excelling in competition as well as in the business of sailing. Operating from an America's Cup-like campus, they maintain a cutting edge fleet of Swedish Match 40's, Shields, Melges 24's, Farr 40's, IRC racers, and three classic wooden yachts.

As a foundation dedicated to the growth of individuals who are serious about the sport, Oakcliff founded the Acorn Program. This program immerses recipients in the world of sailing, covering everything from the sponsorship/business side of sailing, to high-level match racing skills. Graduating Acorns are fully prepared to manage race boats, sail in the America's Cup or become a business entrepreneur. Visit oakcliffsailing.org to learn more.

SAIL NEWPORT
Sail Newport's Mission is to grow the sport of sailing, bring special events to Newport, and to provide public access to sailing programs in Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay for all ages and all economic levels. Sail Newport's one design storage, regatta and service facilities make it the home for one design fleets such as the massive J/24 Fleet 50, the Laser 413 Frostbite Fleet and the 30+ boat Newport Shields Fleet 8. Visit sailnewport.org to learn more.

The organizers would also like to extend their gratitude for the support of Melges USA, Quantum Sail Group, Cre843, Boston Meridian and Mac Designs.

For more information about the US Melges 24 National Championship or the Melges 32 Northeast Championship, please email Cary Siegler at info@cre843.com  For media inquiries, please phone 305.951.4611

NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND (JUNE 1, 2010) - In just over three weeks, the US Melges 24 Class will crown a new US National Champion in Newport, R.I. alongside the exploding Melges 32 Class as they battle for the 2010 East Coast Championship.  The fleet can already count entries to the event from as far away as Japan, California, and Colorado, with top competitors entered in both fleets.  There is a great opportunity for silver in the Melges 24 Corinthian class as well, as the level of competition is broadly distributed between top professionals and up-and-coming true amateur sailors.

"We're hugely excited to be hosting these important championships for two of the most exciting boat designs in sailing," said Event Chairman and long-time Newport racer JC Raby.  "We're glad to show off our incredible sailing conditions to a new group of racers on the Melges 32, and as a Melges 24 sailor, I can't wait to compete against some of the talented guys and girls that will be attending the Layline/Oakcliff US Nationals."

Named for the Wisconsin-based family that's been building high-quality racing boats for nearly a century, the Melges 24 and Melges 32 are archetypes of the lightweight and ultra fast sailing craft known as 'sportboats,' which represent some of the fastest-growing racing classes in the US.  "There's nothing I'd rather race than a Melges 24," said 'Simplicity' skipper and 2008 Corinthian National Champion Simon Strauss. "And there are few places as enjoyable to race in as Newport in the summer."

Value To Competitors A Top Priority 
As frequently happens after a US-based World Championship, the US Melges 24 fleet has struggled to maintain big numbers since the November 2009 Worlds in Annapolis, MD., Newly-elected US Melges 24 Class President Steve Kopf knew that huge fleets weren't going to happen in Newport this June, so the Class and Newport organizers have concentrated on fostering great competition with fantastic race management, while providing quality awards and unprecedented onshore entertainment, ensuring an unforgetful trip to one of the world's most ideal sailing spots.

"Coming off the Annapolis Worlds and with the economic situation the way it is, we weren't surprised to see late '09 and early '10 start off slowly," said Kopf.  "But we're already seeing fleets show some real growth, and we expect Newport to mark the real launch of the 11-month buildup to the 2011 Worlds in Corpus Christie."  Kopf says that much of the new interest in the Class has resulted from the availability of so many bargain boats in great condition, while another major factor helping interest in the US Class is "spectacular regional racing all over the US."  Kopf says that Seattle, Michigan, and Charleston all have extremely strong and active fleets, while two brand new multi-event series - the 2010 California Cup and The 2011 Road To Corpus Sailing Series - are pushing sailors back into actively racing M24s.

The US Class is "strongly committed to helping Melges 24 owners and prospective owners get out on the race course," according to Kopf, and for US Nationals, they've partnered with Co-Title Sponsor Oakcliff Sailing Center in the offer of six nearly new Melges 24 raceboats for charter at an ultra-discounted price.  "Oakcliff's mission is to help enthusiastic racers and up-and-coming talent grow into responsible sailing leaders," said Executive Director Dawn Riley.  "With its unintimidating size, simple layout, and exhilarating performance, the Melges 24 is the perfect platform to spread that mission, and we're happy to be able to offer our Melges 24 fleet to people who want to race against the best."  Click here for more information about the Oakcliff charter program.

Oakcliff's generous charter program isn't the only big value at the Layline/Oakcliff  M24 Nationals/M32 NE Champs either; regatta Co-Title Sponsor and Official Supplier to the International Melges 24 Class "Layline.com" may be under new ownership, but they're continuing a strong tradition of supporting great One-Design racing with their sponsorship of the M24 Nationals.  Layline's fully stocked mobile store will be on hand with everything a Melges 24 or 32 team needs, from apparel to blocks to running and standing rigging.  Layline has further sweetened the pot for those attending, offering a full 15% off retail price of any order to any boat that registers before June 17th.  The offer is valid for any order placed during the month of June, and excludes electronics.  Go to Layline.com or use your discount at the mobile store at Sail Newport.

The social scene at the Layline/Oakcliff Nationals/NE Champs needs to live up to Newport's and the Melges family's reputation for socializing, and thanks to Melges Performance Sailboats and other sponsors, two off-the-wall parties are planned during the regatta.  Friday night, competitors will be treated to a competitor cocktail party directly after racing at one of Newport’s classic mansions, and Saturday welcomes in the now famous (some would say 'infamous') Melges Rocks! Party at the Riptide Bar & Grill.

Visiting competitors to the Layline/Oakcliff M24 Nationals can maximize the value of their dollar - along with their time on the beautiful waters of Newport - by leaving their boat at Sail Newport's facility until the Coastal Living Sail Newport Regatta just two weeks after Nationals.  This low-key multiclass regatta has delivered great sportboat racing throughout recent memory.  "Newport can be surprisingly inexpensive for such a great town, and splitting logistics costs between both the US Nationals and the Sail Newport Regatta makes it even more affordable," said Strauss.  "Our team considers this beautiful place one of the best on the entire circuit."

Corinthian Deadline Close At Hand
Less than a week remains for Melges 24 Corinthian competitors to file their declarations.  Go to the USMCA website for more information.  You can also learn more about the Melges 32 at the Class website, and check out the current entry list for Layline/Oakcliff Nationals/NE Champs at the event website.

And look for more exciting news from this exciting event next week, including an analysis of the teams and their chances, and an announcement detailing the numerous sites that will be covering the event..  The clock's ticking, so sign up today!

About The US Melges 24 Class
The reputation of the Melges 24® precedes itself. Best known for its very competitive disposition and easy-to-sail personality, this modern sportboat maintains its status as a leader in high-performance, one design yachting. With more than 800 boats sold, it continues a humbling tradition of America's Cup, Olympic Medallists, and Volvo Ocean Race recruitment. Looking to improve on tactics and boat handling skills? The Melges 24 builds better sailors and leaves lasting smiles.

About Layline.com



The 'Original Performance Sailing Retailer', for over 20 years, Layline is back with a new vigor to provide sailors with the absolute best in custom rigging, gear, and sailing apparel.  Layline is proud to be the Official Supplier of Gear and Rigging to the International Melges 24 Class and Title sponsor of the 2010 Layline/Oakcliff US Melges 24 Nationals as well as the Platinum Sponsor of the US Optimist Class, Official Supplier to their US National Team and Title Sponsor of the 2010 USODA Layline Nationals.  Visit layline.com to learn more.

About Oakcliff Sailing Center



The Oakcliff Sailing Center, located in Oyster Bay, NY offers a growth path for sailors who are serious about excelling in competition as well as in the business of sailing.  Operating from an America's Cup-like campus, they maintain a cutting edge fleet of Swedish Match 40's, Shields, Melges 24's, Farr 40's, IRC racers, and three classic wooden yachts. 

As a foundation dedicated to the growth of individuals who are serious about the sport, Oakcliff founded the Acorn Program.  This program immerses recipients in the world of sailing, covering everything from the sponsorship/business side of sailing, to high-level match racing skills.  Graduating Acorns are fully prepared to manage race boats, sail in the America's Cup or become a business entrepreneur.

About The Melges 32 Class
The Melges 32® is one design racing at its best. Since 2005, it has successfully delivered bigger, better, more-simplified sailing that is fun and competitive. Complementing its sporty attitude, it possesses one of the most diverse regatta schedules that includes many prestigious venues supported by an organized and well-established class association.

About Sail Newport
Sail Newport's Mission is to grow the sport of sailing, bring special events to Newport, and to provide public access to sailing programs in Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay for all ages and all economic levels.  Sail Newport's One-design storage, regatta and service facilities make it the home for One-design fleets such as the massive J/24 Fleet 50, the Laser 413 Frostbite Fleet and the 30+ boat Newport Shields Fleet 8.

For more information about the US Melges 24 National Championship or the Melges 32 Northeast Championship, please email Cary Siegler at info@cre843.com.  For media inquiries, please phone 401.608.2662.

Oakcliff Sailing Center to Sponsor Melges 24 National Championship

Oakcliff Sailing Center offers six late model Melges 24s

NEWPORT, Rhode Island - May 14, 2010 - Oakcliff Sailing Center, an internationally recognized non-profit training and coaching center, located in Oyster Bay, NY will support the Melges 24 National Championship in part by making six late-model Melges 24s available for use at the regatta held on the waters off Newport, RI June 24th to 27th, 2010. 

The mission of the Oakcliff Sailing Center is to raise the level of sailors and sailing in the U.S., and competing in the Melges 24 National Championships fits into this mission.  This is especially true with the unique payment arrangements which encourage charterers to include the up and coming and talented Oakcliff Sailing Center Team Members.  Oakcliff Sailing Center's fleet includes six Melges 24 with the premium hull numbers of: 768, 769, 770, 771, 784, and 802. 

"We are extremely excited for sailors throughout the country and internationally to learn more about Oakcliff's unique mission of creating better sailors and marine professionals, and their growing contribution to international sailboat racing." Said JC Raby, Melges 24 Northeast District Governor and Regatta Chair. "Oakcliff has put an amazing offer forward to the US and International Melges 24 Class and I know all six boats will add considerable competitive talent to the already impressive fleet assembling to race for the National Championship."

Oakcliff has put together the following packages to encourage participation.  They are expected to be spoken for quickly so all charters will be on a first come, first served basis.  Longer-term charters for other major Melges 24 events may be secured upon request so long as the boat also competes in the Melges 24 National Championship this June. 

Interested sailors should contact Dawn Riley, Executive Director of Oakcliff Sailing Center at: race@oakcliffsailing.org or JC Raby, Northeast District Governor at: jcraby@cox.net.

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About Oakcliff Sailing Center

The Oakcliff Sailing Center, located in Oyster Bay, NY offers a growth path for sailors who are serious about excelling in competition as well as in the business of sailing.  Operating from an America's Cup-like campus, they maintain a cutting edge fleet of Swedish Match 40's, Shields, Melges 24's, Farr 40's, IRC racers, and three classic wooden yachts. 

As a foundation dedicated to the growth of individuals who are serious about the sport, Oakcliff founded the Acorn Program.  This program immerses recipients in the world of sailing, covering everything from the sponsorship/business side of sailing, to high-level match racing skills.  Graduating Acorns are fully prepared to manage race boats, sail in the America's Cup or become a business entrepreneur. 

Visit Oakcliff Sailing Center Here:
www.oakcliffsailing.org