Steve Kopf Takes the Helm as USMCA Melges 24 Southeast District Governor

From the USMCA - Steve Kopf will assume the role as the Melges 24 Southeast District Governor for the U.S. Melges 24 Class Association (USMCA). This position, was formerly occupied by Reid Collins from Flowery Branch, Ga. who has served the USMCA with great leadership over the last two years. It is with Reid's careful guidance and dedication to the Melges 24 fleet within the Southeast region that it has experienced continued phenomenal growth.

"I want to thank Reid for his tireless efforts over the last two years in helping to grow the Southeast fleet and to increase the number and competitiveness of regattas," says Kopf. "With as many as 50 boats and world-class sailors like Terry Hutchinson, Morgan Larson, and Bill Hardesty competing, the Southeast Circuit is has enjoyed tremendous growth."

Collins will continue to be an active participant in the class, racing his boat "Desperate Measures" or crewing for others as often as he can.

As the new District Governor, Kopf says his primary goal is to strike a balance between increasing the competitiveness of the class and maintaining its appeal to newcomers. "One of the best things about the Melges 24 class is that everyone exchanges information on how to improve performance. A positive, supportive environment is key to the fleet’s continued growth," remarks Kopf.

The Southeastern region of the USA hosts some of the best racing in the world including ACURA Key West Race Week, the Sperry Top-Sider St. Petersburg NOOD, Charleston Race Week, and the venerable King’s Day regatta hosted by The Florida Yacht Club. In 2008, the pinnacle championship of the USMCA will be held in Charleston, hosted by the Charleston Yacht Club — the 2008 U.S. National Championship, September 18-21.

"We are very excited that Charleston was selected as the venue for the 2008 Nationals," says Kopf. "Regatta Co-Chair Reggie Fairchild is working hard to put together an event that will combine a challenging test of sailing with the hospitality that makes the South such an exceptional place to compete."

Steve Kopf joined the class in 2006 after a 25-year hiatus from competitive sailing. Prior to purchasing his boat 'Blur' (the former 'Liberty-3'), he was exclusively addicted to windsurfing. He is a member of the Charleston Yacht Club and splits time between homes in Augusta, GA and Isle of Palms, SC. Kopf is a principal in a firm that develops renewable energy projects.

The U.S. Melges 24 Class Association would like to extend, in the greatest of appreciation and acknowledgement all the hard work and dedication given generously by Reid Collins. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors.