2008 Melges 24 National Championship September 18-21, 2008

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U.S. MELGES 24 CLASS ASSOCIATION
29 AUG 2008

OSA SAILING NAMED TITLE SPONSOR OF THE 2008 U.S. MELGES 24 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

9 AUGUST 2008 • Charleston, South Carolina's Ocean Sailing Academy (OSA) has officially been named title sponsor of the 2008 Melges 24 U.S. National Championship. OSA is the premier Melges 24 performance racing school. Whether you are looking to compete in the Melges 24 Class, or take your program to the next level, OSA specializes in tailoring racing clinics to fit your needs. Sessions are available year round and teach you how to sail faster and improve your teamwork.

Be sure to visit OSA Sailling online at their website at www.osasailing.com to browse a wealth of information regarding sailing courses, classes, racing opportunities and much, much more.

Quantum Sails has also been named official sailmaker for Nationals. "We're delighted that Quantum now has a great loft in Charleston, run by John Bowden. We're thrilled that they're bringing in world-class racer Skip Dieball and class stalwart Scott Nixon for the clinic on Thursday followed by a fun-filled three day regatta,' says Regatta Co-Chair and U.S. Melges 24 Class Association Charleston Fleet Captain Reggie Fairchild. "Scott has been supporting Melges 24s in the Southeast for a very long time. He always has sage and friendly advice. He coached at the The College of Charleston and was the winning tactician at this year's Charleston Race Week. He knows the harbor well." Nixon, Bowden, and Dieball will be running the practice race/clinic on Thursday, September 18 starting at 1 p.m. The clinic will provide on-the-water coaching and instruction, then run a video debrief at the Charleston Yacht Club. This will be a unique opportunity to learn awesome tips and tricks from some of the best sailors in the world!

The number of entries is now up to 43 and includes participants from all six districts governed by the USMCA. Entries have been recieved from Seattle, Wash. to Naples, Fla., from Los Angeles, Calif, to Dallas, Tx, Traverse City, Mich. and Westbrook, Conn. International entries from Canada and the UK have also been confirmed.

The stage has been set for great sailing action and parties to celebrate the best Nationals yet. The deadline for all entries is set for Thursday, September 4th, so Register Online today! Don't miss out on this chance to sail against the best-of-the-best in the world! Plan to attend and help the class push the attendance level to an all-time high!

CALLING ALL COMPETITORS
The Notice of Race (NOR) is now available at the official 2008 Melges 24 U.S. National Championship event website, www.m24charleston.com. Download a copy today and process your entries online via the same web portal. A wealth of information is posted including a current list of entries, regatta documents and much, much more. There is also a related blog at M24charleston.wordpress.com. For future announcements, stay tuned to this as well as the official site of the U.S. Melges 24 Class Association at www.usmelges24.com and, the International Melges 24 Class Association (IMCA) at www.melges24.com.

The 2008 OSA Sailing Melges 24 U.S. National Championship is hosted by the Charleston Yacht Club and takes place on September 18-21. The Championship is sponsored by Ocean Sailing Academy, Yacht Scoring, Charleston City Marina, Cre843, ASB Flower Design, Coral Reef Sailing Apparel,, Quantum Sails, Sadler and Hamm and the U.S. Melges 24 Class Association, www.usmelges24.com.

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The Melges 24 is designed by Reichel Pugh (reichel-pugh.com) and considered the most unique one design sportboat in the world as well as one of the fastest-growing classes of high performance yachts. For more information visit the U.S. Melges 24 Class Association (USMCA, www.usmelges24.com) and the International Melges 24 Class Association (IMCA, www.melges24.com) on the web.

For more information or press photos, please contact:
Joy Dunigan
2008 U.S. National Championship Press Officer
U.S. Melges 24 Class Association Communications Director
communications@usmelges24.com
+1 (912) 398-5776

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U.S. MELGES 24 CLASS ASSOCIATION
29 AUG 2008

QUANTUM SAILS NAMED OFFICIAL SAILMAKER FOR THE 2008 MELGES 24 U.S. NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

8 AUGUST 2008 • If you really need a good excuse to attend the 2008 Melges 24 U.S. National Championship September 18-21, hosted by the Charleston Yacht Club in Charleston, S.C., well here it is... Quantum Sails has been named as the official sailmaker for Nationals.

To celebrate their appointment, they will be running the training clinic/practice races on Thursday, September 18. Join 2008 Melges 24 Charleston Race Week winning tactician Scott Nixon, along with Skip Dieball and John Bowden for some invaluable on-the-water instruction. This will be a unique opportunity to learn awesome tips and tricks from some of the best sailors in the world!

The deadline for all entries is set for Thursday, September 4th, so Register Online today! Don't miss out on this chance to sail against the best-of-the-best! Help the class push the attendance level to an all-time high!

CALLING ALL COMPETITORS

The Notice of Race (NOR) is now available at the official 2008 Melges 24 U.S. National Championship event website, www.m24charleston.com. Download a copy today and process your entries online via the same web portal. A wealth of information is posted including a current list of entries, regatta documents and much, much more. There is also a related blog at M24charleston.wordpress.com. For future announcements, stay tuned to this as well as the official site of the U.S. Melges 24 Class Association at www.usmelges24.com and, the International Melges 24 Class Association (IMCA) at www.melges24.com.

OFFICIAL MELGES 24 NATIONALS BLOG
If you just want to find out what is going on with Nationals, visit the official blog of the events: http://m24charleston.wordpress.com/. From Charleston accommodation and dining suggestions, to the latest and greatest tidbits on the event, check out this regularly updated blog.

OFFICIAL MELGES 24 NATIONALS CLOTHING & GEAR
Coral Reef Sailing Apparel has been deemed the official gear provider for Nationals. Purchase everything your crew needs now. Place an order today!

The 2008 Melges 24 U.S. National Championship hosted by the Charleston Yacht Club (charlestonyachtclub.com) on September 18-21 is sponsored by Ocean Sailing Academy (osasailing.com), Yacht Scoring (yachtscoring.com), Charleston City Marina (charlestoncitymarina.com), Cre843 (cre843.com), ASB Flower Design (asbflowers.com), Coral Reef Sailing Apparel (coralreefsailing.net) and the U.S. Melges 24 Class Association (usmelges24.com).

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The Melges 24 is designed by Reichel Pugh (reichel-pugh.com) and considered the most unique one design sportboat in the world as well as one of the fastest-growing classes of high performance yachts. For more information visit the U.S. Melges 24 Class Association (USMCA, usmelges24.com) and the International Melges 24 Class Association (IMCA, melges24.com) on the web.

For more information or press photos, please contact:
Joy Dunigan
2008 U.S. National Championship Press Officer
U.S. Melges 24 Class Association Communications Director
+1 (912) 398-5776

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U.S. MELGES 24 CLASS ASSOCIATION
28 AUG 2008

2008 MELGES 24 U.S. NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP: VERY IMPORTANT COMPETITOR INFORMATION

28 AUGUST 2008 • The 2008 Melges 24 U.S. National Championship hosted by the Charleston Yacht Club on September 18-21 is a little less than a month away as the entry list continues to grow. More than 40 entries have been received so far, with expectations of 50+.

ENTRY DEADLINE
All those looking to compete at this regatta must have their entries submitted by the deadline of Thursday, September 4th. Don't wait until the very last minute to take care of registering for what will be another amazing Melges 24 Championship!
Register Online Today
View The Entry List
Download a Notice of Race (NOR)

2008 USMCA MEMBERSHIP
All teams must make sure that their 2008 U.S. Melges 24 Class Association Membership is valid prior to competition. View 2008 USMCA Members.If you do not see yourself on the list, please activate your membership today. Join The USMCA.

CORINTHIAN COMPETITION
For your team to be considered in the Corinthian division, you must supply the USMCA with a completed USMCA Declaration Form (PDF). Please fill this out legibly and be sure you provide the crew name on the form as can be found on the ISAF website.Your team MUST be classified with ISAF in order to qualify. You may submit your forms in advance by faxing to +1 912 756-6728. They will also be accepted at weigh-in and check-in. For questions, concerns or inquiries contact Joy Dunigan, USMCA Executive Secretary via e-mail.

WEIGH-IN
Weigh-in for all teams will take place on Thursday, September 18 from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. and from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. in the club house. Weigh-in is by appointment only on Friday prior to racing. Appointments must be made with Joy Dunigan, USMCA Executive Secretary.

USMCA ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (AGM)
All members of the USMCA are welcomed to attend the annual AGM for the U.S. Melges 24 Class taking place immediately after the Skipper's Meeting (6 p.m.) on Thursday, September 18 at the Charleston Yacht Club.

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OFFICIAL MELGES 24 NATIONALS CLOTHING & GEAR
Coral Reef Sailing Apparel has been deemed the official gear provider for Nationals. Purchase everything your crew needs now. Place an order today!

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The Melges 24 is designed by Reichel Pugh (reichel-pugh.com) and considered the most unique one design sportboat in the world as well as one of the fastest-growing classes of high performance yachts. For more information visit the U.S. Melges 24 Class Association (USMCA, usmelges24.com) and the International Melges 24 Class Association (IMCA, melges24.com) on the web.

For more information or press photos, please contact:
Joy Dunigan
2008 U.S. National Championship Press Officer
U.S. Melges 24 Class Association Communications Director
+1 (912) 398-5776

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U.S. MELGES 24 CLASS ASSOCIATION
20 AUG 2008

CORAL REEF SAILING NAMED OFFICIAL APPAREL PROVIDER FOR CHARLESTON NATIONALS

Coral Reef Sailing Apparel (CRSA) has been selected as the official provider of event apparel for the 2008 Melges 24 U.S. National Championship. Official U.S. Melges 24 Class Association and National Championship clothing can be purchased from Coral Reef Sailing Apparel's Website now, or at their mobile retail store which will be located at the Charleston Yacht Club throughout the event. The store features Gill technical gear including a full line of mid-layers, jackets, quick dry shorts, hikers and sunglasses.

CRSA's President George Cannon says, "The Nationals are a great opportunity for Coral Reef to support the Melges 24 class. Melges 24 sailors demand the best and we are happy to provide it." 2008 Melges 24 U.S. National Championship regatta Co-Chair Reggie Fairchild says, "Coral Reef sells high quality products and provides top notch service. We're are very excited to have them as part of the event."

Purchase Online Today so that your crew has everything they need to be competitive well in advance!

Forty Melges 24s have officially signed up to compete at the 2008 U.S. National Championship on September 18-21, hosted by the Charleston Yacht Club in beautiful Charleston, S.C. As many as 50 to 60 teams are expected to attend. The deadline for registration is September 4.

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The Melges 24 is designed by Reichel Pugh (reichel-pugh.com) and considered the most unique one design sportboat in the world as well as one of the fastest-growing classes of high performance yachts. For more information visit the U.S. Melges 24 Class Association (USMCA, usmelges24.com) and the International Melges 24 Class Association (IMCA, melges24.com) on the web.

For more information or press photos, please contact:
Joy Dunigan
2008 U.S. National Championship Press Officer
U.S. Melges 24 Class Association Communications Director
+1 (912) 398-5776

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U.S. MELGES 24 CLASS ASSOCIATION
21 JULY 2008

EARLY ENTRY DEADLINE FOR 2008 MELGES 24 U.S. NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP FAST APPROACHING, JULY 31

The stage is set for the 2008 Melges 24 U.S. National Championship hosted by the Charleston Yacht Club in Charleston, S.C. on September 18-21. With 20 teams already registered, more than 50 teams total are expected to attend. The early entry deadline is July 31. All those planning to attend should Register Online to avoid incurring a late fee.

"My team and I are very excited about racing Nationals in Charleston." says Paul Hulsey, USA-740 Hoodlum Racing from Birmingham, Michigan. "We've got a brand new boat and can't wait to get out on the water. We always have the best time and love the venue. Charleston is the whole package. The current can be crazy, but that just means the competition will be its very best. We are super excited about coming to Nationals!"

Hulsey is not alone in his opinion of racing in Charleston. It is such a beautiful, southern city and big on racing the Melges 24. The Charleston fleet is ready to welcome the world on behalf of the U.S. Melges 24 Class Association!

The 2008 Melges 24 U.S. National Championship hosted by the Charleston Yacht Club (charlestonyachtclub.com) on September 18-21 is sponsored by Ocean Sailing Academy (osasailing.com), Yacht Scoring (yachtscoring.com), Charleston City Marina (charlestoncitymarina.com), Cre843 (cre843.com), ASB Flower Design (asbflowers.com) and the U.S. Melges 24 Class Association (usmelges24.com).

###

The Melges 24 is designed by Reichel Pugh (reichel-pugh.com) and considered the most unique one design sportboat in the world as well as one of the fastest-growing classes of high performance yachts. For more information visit the U.S. Melges 24 Class Association (USMCA, usmelges24.com) and the International Melges 24 Class Association (IMCA, melges24.com) on the web.

For more information or press photos, please contact:
Joy Dunigan
2008 U.S. National Championship Press Officer
U.S. Melges 24 Class Association Communications Director
+1 (912) 398-5776

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U.S. MELGES 24 CLASS ASSOCIATION
30 APRIL 2008

2008 MELGES 24 NATIONALS READY TO GO, NOR AND ONLINE ENTRY NOW AVAILABLE

The 2008 Melges 24 U.S. National Championship will take place in Charleston, South Carolina on September 18-21, hosted by the Charleston Yacht Club. For the U.S. Melges 24 Class Association (USMCA) this is a premiere event, where as many as 50 teams are expected to attend. "We are going to see boats from all over the country. We've had inquiries from as far away as California, Texas, Michigan and New York and would not be the least bit surprised to see several International entries as well. Some of the world's best sailors will be in Charleston for this major event,' said Reggie Fairchild, Regatta Co-Chair and Charleston Melges 24 Fleet Captain.

"The racing conditions in Charleston are some of the most challenging and rewarding in the world. Sailing in Charleston Harbor in September is ideal. The water is warm and the air temperature near perfect. There is a wonderful afternoon sea breeze, the racing will truly be great."

"Europeans and other International teams should take a serious look at the close proximity of Charleston and Annapolis. They can sail the U.S. National Championship as well as the North Americans. This a unique opportunity to compete in both events efficiently and affordably. Logistically, racing these two events makes a lot of sense."

As one of the most progressive and flourishing areas for the US Melges 24 class, Charleston is an ideal venue for the championship. Sailing heritage runs deep in this historic city, complemented by southern charm. "The Carolina Lowcountry is known for friendly people and spectacular scenery," commented Regatta Co-Chair Judy Drew Fairchild. "Competitors may be greeted by dolphins, diving pelicans, and other birds including black skimmers and oystercatchers. Our exciting racing conditions, great off-the-water events, and wide variety of beaches and activities for all members of the family will make this a great destination for the Nationals."

2007 was a record-breaking year for the USMCA. Fifty-five Melges 24s competed at the Bayview Yacht Club in Detroit, Michigan — the largest ever turnout in the USMCA's fifteen year history. The Charleston Melges 24 Nationals is aiming for that, or better. Chris Hamilton, also sharing duties as a Regatta Co-Chair continued, "We are looking forward to a great event. This is a high-level regatta with tremendous expectations and we are pulling out all the stops. We've recruited Hal Smith as PRO to run the action. Hal has a long tenure with the Melges 24s. He ran the 2007 Gold Cup and knows exactly what Melges 24 sailors want. He plans to deliver."

Reaffirmation comes from USMCA Southeast District Governor Reid Collins, "Hal is the best PRO in the Southeast and the best I've ever encountered. He efficiently sets up and runs excellent races, is a great communicator to the racers and his race committee. He knows how to handle the Melges 24."

National and International Melges 24 sailors will want to take advantage of the impressive line-up of competitive opportunities that follow the U.S. Nationals. Almost immediately following is the Lake Geneva Fall Championship in early October — the birthplace of the Melges 24 where attendance on average is 30+ and, the 2008 North American Championship held in Annapolis, Maryland October 26th - November 2, hosted by the Eastport Yacht Club. Annapolis will also host the 2009 Melges 24 World Championship.

With a line-up of regattas such as this, the biggest and brightest teams are sure to converge upon Charleston. It will be the perfect juncture to prepare and fine-tune the crew, boats and gear for the long haul in one of the toughest and most demanding fleets in the world. The Melges 24 Class is not for the faint of heart. This is why the best of the best look to the Melges 24 to gain a competitive edge. That edge will be found once more in Charleston.

CALLING ALL COMPETITORS
The Notice of Race (NOR) is now available at the official 2008 Melges 24 U.S. National Championship event website (m24charleston.com). Download a copy today and process your entries online via the same web portal. A wealth of information is posted including a current list of entries, regatta documents and much, much more. For future announcements, stay tuned to this as well as the official site of the U.S. Melges 24 Class Association at usmelges24.com and, the International Melges 24 Class Association (IMCA) at melges24.com.

The 2008 Melges 24 U.S. National Championship hosted by the Charleston Yacht Club (charlestonyachtclub.com) on September 18-21 is sponsored by Ocean Sailing Academy (osasailing.com), Yacht Scoring (yachtscoring.com), Charleston City Marina (charlestoncitymarina.com), Cre843 (cre843.com), ASB Flower Design (asbflowers.com) and the U.S. Melges 24 Class Association (usmelges24.com).

###

The Melges 24 is designed by Reichel Pugh (reichel-pugh.com) and considered the most unique one design sportboat in the world as well as one of the fastest-growing classes of high performance yachts. For more information visit the U.S. Melges 24 Class Association (USMCA, usmelges24.com) and the International Melges 24 Class Association (IMCA, melges24.com) on the web.

For more information or press photos, please contact:
Joy Dunigan
2008 U.S. National Championship Press Officer
U.S. Melges 24 Class Association Communications Director
communications@usmelges24.com
+1 (912) 398-5776

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