Melges IC37 Class Welcomes Coach Moose McClintock

NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND (January 8, 2020): The Melges IC37 Class is proud to announce the appointment of Moose McClintock (Newport, RI) as the Class Coach effective immediately.

The Newport native boasts an impressive sailing resume including 10 world championship titles, two America’s Cup campaigns (1995 Young America, 2000 AmericaOne), and five Congressional Cup titles. McClintock is most recently known for his involvement with the Newport Laser Fleet and coaching the University of Rhode Island sailing team.

“Class coaching is a lot like working with a college team,” said McClintock. “If the back of the fleet isn’t fully up to speed, the top of the fleet isn’t pushed hard enough to improve. With fleet coaching, the goal is to get everyone to the same level and make the racing even.”

The Melges IC37 Class has found distinct success in working with a coach for events in 2019-20. Strict one-design rules prohibit the hiring of individual coaches in an effort to limit operating expenses and encourage class development. The communal debriefs and practices are representative of the class culture, one that fosters camaraderie and celebrates teamwork.

Newly elected Class President Jim Wilson (Newport, RI) is confident that a Class Coach is an integral part of fleet development. “We’re thrilled to offer this level of support for each competitor. The Class is committed to building our fleet and helping new teams get up to speed quickly.”

“Moose brings an incredible amount of passion and both technical and coaching experience to our class,” added Wilson. “His intimate knowledge of our Newport waters will also help level the playing field for visiting teams.”

McClintock’s role will be a combined virtual and on the water presence at all class events on the 2021 schedule, beginning in June. He will guide pre-regatta practices, run daily post-race debriefs for the fleet, and provide all Melges IC37 teams with regular expert insight on how to maximize their performance. He will also be available between regattas to answer questions and discuss areas of improvement specific to individual teams.

The 2021 Melges IC37 season opens with the East Coast Championship in Rye, NY April 30-May 2. The Class then moves to Newport, RI for a six-event summer series closing with the North American Championship October 1-3.