Surprise Wins the 2025 Melges 24 Canadian Championship
Tecumseh, Ontario Canada - The 2025 Melges 24 Canadian Championship wrapped up September 7th at South Port Sailing Club in Ontario, Canada delivering a thrilling event despite challenging conditions. A total of eight races were completed, with Friday racing cancelled due to high winds and Sunday delayed while the fleet waited for breeze.
In the end, it was Dan Berezin’s Surprise (CAN 629) team that rose to the top which included Kimberly Cameron, Alex Kapustin, Misha Mayevsky and Denys Kalchenko. Berezin and his team not only secured 1st overall, but they also claimed the Corinthian title, sailing a consistent and determined regatta to lock in the trophy.
The U.S. Melges 24 fleet was well represented, with standout performances across both the overall and Corinthian divisions:
• 2nd Place Overall – Straightarrow (USA 830), helmed by George Peet of Little Traverse Yacht Club, Harbor Springs, Michigan. Peet and his crew posted a string of top finishes, staying in contention for the title right through the final race.
• 3rd Place Overall – Smile and Wave (USA 829), sailed by Jaime Torres out of Davis Island Yacht Club, Tampa, Florida. Torres and team claimed three race wins and delivered one of the most exciting scorelines of the regatta.
• 2nd Place Corinthian – Tramp (USA 708), led by Detroit’s Tom Ritter (Bayview Yacht Club), who showed classic Corinthian grit and consistency to secure a podium spot.
The U.S. Melges 24 Class extends its congratulations not only to the winners, but also to all competitors who made the journey and contributed to an excellent and memorable regatta. Special thanks go to the South Port Sailing Club, the race committee, judges, volunteers, and organizers for their tremendous efforts in hosting this international event.
With tight competition, big conditions, and an enthusiastic fleet, the 2025 Melges 24 Canadian Championship showcased the strength and camaraderie that defines Melges 24 racing on both sides of the border.
2025 Canadian National Champions — Surprise (CAN-629)
Jaime Torres and the Smile and Wave Team — Third place overall
