A Fresh Breeze in Leadership: Melges 24 Class Ushers in a New Era and Sets Sail for Croatia 2027
The world of high-performance sailing is entering an exciting new chapter. The International Melges 24 Class Association (IM24CA) has revealed major leadership updates and official championship plans following its World Council Annual General Meeting, held on November 22. And the results promise both continuity and innovation for one of sailing’s most iconic one-design fleets.
After six years of dedicated service, U.S. sailor Laura Grondin has stepped down as Chair, marking the end of a notable tenure that saw the class navigate challenges, expand globally, and strengthen its technical foundations. Stepping into her place is Canadian sailor Duncan Stamper, who brings fresh perspective and energy as he assumes leadership of the class. His appointment signals a deliberate shift toward growth, inclusion, and long-term planning.
The Council also confirmed several key additions to its Executive Committee:
- Vice Chair, Americas: Chelsea Simms (USA)
- Member, Americas: Scot Zimmerman (USA)
- Member, Europe: Luka Šangulin (Croatia)
- Member At-Large: Michael Tarabochia (Germany) – a brand-new role designed to improve global representation and collaboration.
- Technical Committee Chair: Mike Gozzard (Canada), re-appointed to continue his pivotal work in class development.
And here’s the big headline for fans and future competitors alike: the 2027 Melges 24 World Championship has officially been awarded to Pula, Croatia. Hosted by Sailing Club Trogir, the event will take place from May 29 to June 5, 2027—a stunning Adriatic stage that promises intense racing and Mediterranean flair.
A Leader’s Farewell: Laura Grondin Reflects
Outgoing Chair Laura Grondin expressed gratitude and pride in the progress made during her leadership. “It’s bittersweet to say goodbye, but I leave knowing the class is thriving,” she shared. Under her guidance, the Melges 24 community saw steady fleet growth, financial stability, and the successful introduction of new boats and innovations—most notably, the evolution of the class masts guided by technical chief Mike Gozzard.
Grondin also acknowledged the recent transition of Melges Performance Sailboats to new owners Cate and Allan Terhune, praising their ongoing commitment to supporting the fleet. “With new leadership, fresh ideas, and a fantastic championship calendar through 2027, the future looks bright,” she concluded.
New Energy and Vision: Duncan Stamper’s Roadmap
Incoming Chair Duncan Stamper began his tenure by paying tribute to Grondin’s leadership, recognizing her steady hand during the difficult Covid years that challenged racing communities worldwide. But he made it clear that he intends to push ahead with ambitious goals.
His primary focus? Strengthening community engagement, creating pathways for young sailors, and revitalizing fleets in underrepresented regions such as South America and the Asia-Pacific. “Our mission is to keep the Melges 24 at the forefront of one-design sailing,” he explained. “That means more youth programs, better championship planning, and a sustainable long-term vision.”
This new strategic direction may raise discussion among racers: Should tradition or expansion take the helm? Some purists value preserving the class’s elite heritage, while others welcome inclusive growth and modernization. What’s your take—does the Melges 24 need evolution, or is its magic in staying classic?
Stronger Together: Renewed Partnership with Melges Performance Sailboats
The AGM also featured an introduction from Cate and Allan Terhune, new owners of Melges Performance Sailboats, who outlined their plans to support the class through improved production, quality control, and consistent availability of parts leading up to major events. Their involvement is expected to reinforce the vital link between builders, sailors, and organizers—a partnership that could define the next stage of the class’s success.
What stands out most is that the Melges 24 community isn’t simply maintaining course—it’s sailing full speed ahead into a future that blends tradition, technology, and global collaboration. With leadership renewed and new horizons set, all eyes now turn to Pula 2027.
But here’s the question that might divide opinion: Can the class keep growing without diluting the fierce competition that defines it? Share your thoughts—does the Melges 24’s next chapter inspire excitement, concern, or a bit of both?
