Official Melges 24 Blog

Just to let everyone know, ISAF has exclusively organized a discussion panel to be held in Key West, Fla. at ACURA Key West 2009. This is the first time that the ISAF Classification Commission has had a public forum to discuss this very important topic. Given the vast, strong opinions some have on this topic, not only is this expected to be informative, but most likely this will entertaining too.

ISAF Classification: Facts and Myths | 5:00 P.M. | TUESDAY – JANUARY 22
For over a decade, a system of Classification has existed to try and define an important performing element in our sport: the sailors. Competitive classes and events around the world have used and helped refine the ISAF Classification system to help define the types of sailors they wish to have in their competitions, ranging from those who are deemed ‘amateurs’ in Group 1 to ‘professionals’ in Group 3. Because of the challenges inherent in trying to define who these sailors are, the system has at times been the subject of criticism and scrutiny, yet remains as a vital key to the success of many of these classes and events. 

Join ISAF Classification Commission Chair Antony Matusch and a panel of class managers and sailors as they discuss the merits and pitfalls of this system. Everyone is invited to learn and provide feedback for improving this important process.

The U.S. Melges 24 Class would love to hear your predictions for ACURA Key West 2009, presented by Nautica! Below is the running order of entrants — helmsman/tactician. Drop us a comment about who you think will be all the rage in Key West. This is not an easy one, but here’s the perfect opportunity for all of you back home basking in the snow and cold to be a part of the festivities!

1. Henry Colie
2. Vincent Brun
3. Chris Rast | Franco Rossini
4. Shawn Grisham
5. Jennifer Wilson
6. OCYC
7. Greg McCliment
8. Peter Cucci (C)
9. Riccardo Simoneschi
10. Brian Porter
11. James Whatmore
12. Gabrio Zandona | Giovanni Maspero
13. John Kolius
14. Loren Colahan (C)
15. Neily Williamson
16. Bruce Ayres (C)
17. Gary Schwarting (C)
18. Kyle Vowels
19. Jens Altern Wathne
20. Guy Mossman
21. Hunt Lawrence/Dan Coughlin
22. Torsten Bergh
23. Oak Cliff YC/Vasiliev
24. Oak Cliff YC/Anosov
25. Thomas Ritter
26. Lorenzo Bressani | Lorenzo Santini
27. Wieland Christof
28. Steve Howe
29. Alan Field
30. Travis Weisleder
31. Wolf Lixfield
32. Alexis Michas
33. Richard Reid

2009 MELGES 24 CLASS MEMBERSHIP
If you have not already done so, please make sure that your 2009 Class Membership is up-to-date. Membership activation and/or renewals may be completed online via credit card at the official website of the U.S. Melges 24 Class Association. All competitors competing in Key West must have a valid class membership with their corresponding National Class Authority. This will be checked at the time of registration. Credit cards will not be accepted on site, however cash or check will be acceptable from U.S. Members.

Get ready to race hard and party harder at ACURA Key West 2009 this coming January! Melges Performance Sailboats is hosting another one of it’s legendary Melges Rocks Parties! The fun starts at 8:30 p.m. at the Island Dog’s Bar on Wedneday, January 21st. And the awesome band that rocked the fleet into the wee hours of the morning will be back! Chicago’s ‘Hello Dave!’ will be back and are ready to rock!