The Melges Watersports Center is committed to broadening the base of wind and human-powered water sports through dedicated community programs and providing support for the development of future champions and Olympians.
“Our goal is to create the premiere North American sailing venue,” said Andy Burdick, President of Melges.
Located on the Banana River at one of its widest points, the venue offers a large, protected body of water, ideal for small sailboats, windsurfers, foiling, and human-powered sports. The Center is also located close to ocean access, allowing for future planning of larger-scale events on the Atlantic.
The Melges Watersports Center is scheduled to open in October 2024 and begin hosting regattas, clinics, and camps. It will serve as a world-class venue, attracting an international audience to Brevard County.
As one of the most active one-design classes in the country, the Melges 15 will bring more than 100 teams to the area throughout its four-event Winter Series. In addition, the Center will kick off its inaugural year with the Melges 14 National Championship and a dozen more scow and dinghy events.
The Center is not just a regatta venue but a year-round hub for aquatic activities and education, catering to beginners and seasoned athletes. It will boast a wide range of services and programs aimed at fostering a love for the water while providing public access to the area’s largest natural resource through kayak and paddleboard rentals.
The Melges Team will facilitate access to the top coaches and athletes in the industry, offering unique training and development opportunities. Several clinics are already on the calendar, aimed at improving boat handling, performance, and racing tactics. These clinics are perfect for individuals eager to absorb expert knowledge within a casual, fun atmosphere.