Sailing Icon Harry “Buddy” Melges Dies at 93

Harry “Buddy” Melges Jr. — considered to be one of the greatest competitive sailors in the sport of sailing — passed away on May 18, 2023, at the age of 93.

Born on January 26, 1930, in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, Buddy dedicated his life to the pursuit of excellence on the water. Growing up on Delavan Lake, he honed his skills sailing the boats crafted by his father, Harry Melges Sr., at Melges Boat Works. Over his eight-decade career, Buddy advanced the sport and etched his name into the annals of sailing history. Buddy soared to Olympic glory, earning a gold medal in the Soling class in 1972 and a bronze medal in the Flying Dutchman class in 1964.

On the national stage, Buddy captured the E-Scow national championship five times, triumphing in 1965, 1969, 1978, 1979 and 1983. He also won the North American Men’s Sailing Championships and the Clifford D. Mallory Trophy in 1959, 1960, and 1961.

In 1992, Buddy achieved the ultimate success, helming America3 to victory alongside Bill Koch, securing the America’s Cup and marking one of his greatest accomplishments during his storied career.

In 2001, Buddy was inducted into the America’s Cup Hall of Fame, recognizing his significant contributions to the prestigious event. Additionally, in 2002, he was inducted into the Inland Lake Yachting Association Hall of Fame, a testament to his impact on inland lake sailing. His induction into the National Sailing Hall of Fame in 2011, the Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame in 2007, and the World Sailing Hall of Fame in 2007 solidified his enduring legacy and celebrated his remarkable contributions to the sport.

As a member of numerous clubs, including the ILYA Bilge Pullers (oldest surviving member), Lake Geneva Yacht Club (member No. 1), Chicago Yacht Club, Columbia Yacht Club, Milwaukee Yacht Club, Texas Corinthian Yacht Club and Little Traverse Bay Yacht Club, Buddy exemplified his commitment to the sailing community.

Buddy leaves an enduring impact on the sailing community. To honor Buddy’s memory, donations can be made to the Geneva Lake Sailing School in the name of the Buddy Melges Sailing Center.