If you’ve ever sailed on a catamaran of any size or description, you’ve probably sailed on a Morrelli & Melvin boat. They’re that ubiquitous in catamaran design. America’s Cup? Certainly. Gunboats? Check. Leopards? Yup. Hobie Wave? Yes, sir. Really? Really.
In August, company partner Gino Morrelli will be our guest speaker, giving us a peek at the dynamics of this dynamic sailing sector. We can’t imagine anyone better positioned to do it.
Here’s the official bio: “Gino started out working on race cars and boats in his family’s Southern California back yard as a teenager. He built his first boat with his dad and brother, a 33-foot Crowther trimaran in high school. Soon after he started his first company, Climax Catamarans, designing and building 18-square meter cats. He has been entrenched in onshore and offshore race-boat construction efforts since the early 80’s, designing and managing the construction of a French 60′ ocean racing catamaran, multiple Formula 40’s, the 1988 Stars & Stripes America’s Cup catamaran, Bol D’or racers, Little America’s Cup C-Class cats and many racing beach catamarans. Gino raced extensively on Stars and Stripes ’88 with Dennis Connor and Steve Fossett’s Morrelli & Melvin designed 125ft cat PlayStation, setting Atlantic W-E, 24 hour, Round Britain/Ireland records, and many more.”
The meeting is Tuesday, August 11, beginning at 7pm (but arrive early for dinner). Monthly meetings are held at the Caddy Shack @ Rolling Hills Golf Course, 1415 North Mill Avenue, Tempe, AZ 85281-1205 (map) and both members and non-members are welcome to attend.
