Melgina Triumphs at Tito Nordio Cup – Pre-Worlds in Trieste
7 September 2025 - Trieste, Italy - The stage is set for the 2025 Melges 24 World Championship in Trieste later this month, following a thrilling Pre-Worlds event hosted by Yacht Club Adriaco from September 5–7. The historic Tito Nordio Cup, traditionally awarded since 1960, was this year dedicated to the Melges 24 fleet and doubled as the final tune-up before the Worlds.
After six races sailed in challenging Bora conditions, victory went to Melgina (ITA 854) of Paolo Brescia, sailing with local tactician Stefano Cherin. The Italian team successfully defended their lead against a strong challenge from Gamecock (USA 841) of Peter McClennen with Jeremy Wilmot on tactics, who finished just one point behind.
Third place went to reigning European Champion Razjaren (CRO 867) of Lukasz Podniesinski helmed by Ante Cesic, tied on points with Dark Horse (USA 870) of Cuyler Morris with Manu Weiller calling tactics. Fifth was Nefeli (GER 673) of Peter Karrié.
In the Corinthian division, the all-amateur title went to White Room (GER 677) of Michael Tarabocchia with Luis Tarabochia helming, followed by La Femme Terrible (ITA 638) by Mauro Brescanin with Paolo Tomsic at the helm, and Miles Quinton's Zhik Race Team (GBR 694), helmed by Geoff Carveth.
In the Under 24 ranking, the home-grown talent of YCA Young Team (ITA 742), led by Kim Magnani with Eugenia Schiavon on tactics, took the win.
The Tito Nordio Cup also marked the conclusion of the 2025 Italian Melges 24 circuit, where Melgina secured overall victory and became the first recipient of the Gaudi Trophy, dedicated to the memory of Gaudenzio Bonini, a beloved member of Andrea Racchelli’s Altea crew and 2018 World Champion, who tragically passed away last year.
Paolo Brescia, owner of Melgina:
“We are very satisfied with our performance and how we are approaching the Melges 24 World Championship in Italy, which is the main goal not only for us but for many highly competitive teams. We are truly moved to be the first to lift the trophy dedicated to Enzo, who was a friend and a reference point for us all. Thanks to Yacht Club Adriaco for their impeccable organization and hospitality.”
With the Pre-Worlds concluded, all eyes now turn to Trieste, where the Melges 24 World Championship 2025 will take place from September 20–27, hosted by Yacht Club Adriaco.