Maestral Magic: strong start to Melges 24 showdown in Trogir

The second event of the 2025 Melges 24 European Sailing Series opened in spectacular fashion today in Trogir, delivering three dynamic races under classic Adriatic conditions. This regatta also serves as the fourth and final event of the 2025 Luki Baustoffe CRO Melges 24 Cup and the prestigious Croatian National Championship, making it a high-stakes affair for both local and international competitors.

Racing began at 14:00, as the reliable northwesterly Maestral breeze filled in, offering ideal sailing conditions for the 20-boat fleet representing seven nations. Croatian teams seized the moment, with three different local crews claiming victories in the day’s three races. The opening race was won by Panjic, skippered by Luka Šangulin. The second race saw Razjaren, helmed by Ante Ćesić, take the top spot, while the final race of the day was claimed by Blue Label, skippered by Hrvoje Petrovic, the leading Corinthian entry.

At the close of Day 1, the provisional standings after three races reflect a strong showing from both Croatian and international contenders.

Overall Top 10 after Day 1:

1. Razjaren (CRO 867) – Ante Ćesić – 2, 1, 3 – 6 pts

2. Nefeli (GER 673) – Peter David Karrié – 4, 2, 2 – 8 pts

3. Panjic (CRO 803) – Luka Šangulin – 1, 8, 6 – 15 pts

4. Mataran 24 (CRO 649) – Ante Botica – 6, 5, 5 – 16 pts

5. Daito Nano (ITA 748) – Dino Orioli – 5, 11, 4 – 20 pts

6. Strambapapa (ITA 689) – Michele Paoletti – 10, 4, 8 – 22 pts

7. Blue Label (CRO 827, Corinthian) – Hrvoje Petrovic – 12, 10, 1 – 23 pts

8. Cro-a-Sail (CRO 782) – Matija Reljanović – 11, 3, 10 – 24 pts

9. One 4 Fun (CRO 383) – Karlo Kuret – 7, 12, 7 – 26 pts

10. Palminanova (CRO 567) – Marko Matic – 8, 6, 14 – 28 pts

Top 3 Corinthian teams:

1. Blue Label (CRO 827) – Hrvoje Petrovic – 12, 10, 1 – 23 pts

2. Zhik Race Team (GBR 694) – Geoff Carveth – 3, 16, 15 – 34 pts

3. Startelekom (POL 763) – Waldemar Salata – 14, 15, 9 – 38 pts

Daily Boat of the Day awards were presented to the standout performers across divisions. Cro-a-Sail helmed by Matija Reljanovic, received recognition in the U24 category, Blue Label was the top Corinthian performer, and the overall award went to Razjaren.

The regatta continues through Sunday, May 4, with the Croatian national title, the Luki Baustoffe CRO Melges 24 Cup trophy, and valuable Melges 24 European Sailing Series points still up for grabs. With double points awarded for the final CRO Cup event, the standings remain wide open and the competition is expected to intensify.

Organized by the Trogir Sailing Club as part of the Trogir Outdoor Festival, the event not only showcases top-level international racing, but also aims to bring sailing closer to the public. The Melges 24 fleet is moored directly in front of the historic Kamerlengo Fortress, providing a spectacular backdrop and inviting atmosphere for spectators and sailing fans.