Harry Clemons “Buddy” Melges Jr., 93

Fontana, Wisc.

Harry Clemons “Buddy” Melges Jr. passed away on May 18, 2023. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy as one of the most accomplished and revered sailors in American history.

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. From its humble origins as a wooden-rowboat builder, the family business evolved into a trailblazer in sailing innovation, providing top-quality performance hulls and sails while fostering a passionate sailing community over the last 78 years.

Over his eight-decade career, Buddy etched his name into the annals of sailing history by showcasing unmatched skill, strategic brilliance, and an unwavering passion for the sport. While being a fierce competitor, Buddy made lifelong friendships both on and off the water. His triumphs in international competitions solidified his status as a sailing icon.

Buddy soared to Olympic glory, earning a bronze medal in the Flying Dutchman class in 1964 and a gold medal in the Soling class in 1972. His expertise extended beyond the Olympics, as he claimed a gold medal in the Flying Dutchman Class at the Pan American Games in 1967, the title of two-time Star world champion in 1978 and 1979, and a remarkable three-time 5.5 Meter world champion in 1967, 1973, and 1983.

On the national stage, Buddy captured the E-Scow national championship five times, triumphing in 1965, 1969, 1978, 1979, and 1983. In 1959, 1960, and 1961 he won the North American Men’s Sailing Championships and the Clifford D. Mallory Trophy. He was also talented on the ice, winning skeeter ice boat world champion titles in 1955, 1957, 1970, 1972, 1974, 1980, and 1981.

Buddy also made his mark on the America’s Cup. As a challenger in 1987 with Heart of America, he competed against Dennis Conner’s Stars & Stripes. 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.

His list of sailing accolades goes on, including three-time US Sailing’s Rolex Yachtsman of the Year (1961, 1972, and 1983) and two-time One Design Sailor of the Year (1978 and 1979). In 1972, the national authority for the sport, now called US Sailing, presented Buddy with its most esteemed award, the Nathanael G. Herreshoff Trophy for Outstanding Contributions to the Sport. In 1986, he was the first recipient of the W. Van Alan Clark Jr. Trophy, the National Sportsmanship Award.

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. Beyond his own accomplishments, Buddy generously shared his knowledge and served as a mentor to aspiring sailors.

During his younger years, Buddy served his country with honor and valor as a member of the United States Army. His service during the Korean War earned him the prestigious Bronze Star.

Beyond sailing, Buddy also found joy in the great outdoors with his passion for duck hunting. A devoted outdoorsman, environmentalist, and conservationist, he served as Chairman of the Delta Marsh Rehabilitation Committee for the Delta Waterfowl Foundation. His longtime favorite place to hunt ringneck ducks and mallards was at his cabin on Lake of the Woods in Nestor Falls, Ontario.

For all of his achievements, Buddy remained humble and approachable. Known for his colorful personality and infectious love for the sport, Buddy was always willing to lend a helping hand and offer words of encouragement to fellow sailors.