Razjaren triumphs in the Season Opener of the Melges 24 European Sailing Series

The first stage of the highly anticipated Melges 24 European Sailing Series 2024 concluded today in Trieste, Italy. Organized by the prestigious Yacht Club Adriaco and the Italian Melges 24 Class Association in cooperation with the International Melges 24 Class Association (IM24CA), the season opener was a great start to the series finishing in October. Over three days of thrilling competition, characterized by ever-changing wind conditions, the Croatian team Razjaren emerged victorious, showcasing their prowess on the water. Hungarian Chinook Tops the Corinthian podium.

Under the leadership of skipper Lukasz Podniesinski and helmsman Ante Cesic, Team Razjaren overcame a series of challenging races to secure their victory. Their consistent performance and strategic maneuvers across eight demanding races showcased their skill and determination, culminating in an impressive final score of 3,2.

2023 Seris' winner, the Hungarian team Chinook, helmed by Akos Csolto, put up a formidable challenge, ultimately claiming a well-deserved second place winning the Corinthian division.

Local pride was also on display, with the Strambapapà team, led by the talented young sailor Leonardo Centuori, making a remarkable debut in the Melges 24 class. Their impressive performance secured them third place on the podium and second place in the Corinthian division, a testament to their skill and potential.

The two other Corinthian teams, the Italian entry Vertigo, helmed by Antonio Masoli, and the British Zhik Race Team, led by Miles Quinton, and helmsman Geoff Carveth, demonstrated exceptional skill, finishing in fourth and fifth place, respectively.

Reflecting on their triumph, Lukasz Podniesinski, owner of Team Razjaren, stated, "We are thrilled with this success in the first stage of the European season. This result gives us confidence for the future, and we are grateful for the warm welcome and flawless organization provided by the Yacht Club Adriaco."

Nicolò de Manzini, President of the Yacht Club Adriaco, extended his gratitude to all participants and emphasized the club's commitment to hosting world-class events. "We are honored to have welcomed teams from around the globe to our shores. The Melges 24 class embodies the values we cherish, and we look forward to continuing our tradition of excellence in sailing."

The diversity of talent was evident throughout the event, with teams representing nine nations. The success of the Melges 24 European Sailing Series underscores the enduring appeal of this exhilarating sport and sets the stage for further thrilling competitions in the future.

The next event will be sailed from Trieste across the border in Portoroz, Slovenia, on May 10-12.

International Melges 24 Class Association extends heartfelt appreciation to the esteemed event host and organizers, the Yacht Club Adriaco and the Italian Melges 24 Class, whose unwavering dedication and meticulous planning ensured the event's success. IM24CA is also deeply grateful to the dedicated supporters, including Io Sono Friuli Venezia Giulia, Eco FVG—Una Regione sostenibile, DocFoody, and Olimpic Sails, whose generous contributions and steadfast commitment made this event possible.