Our Team
We’re thrilled to welcome you aboard for a journey that dives deep into the life of a true sailing legend. We’re a crew of passionate filmmakers who’ve spent 10 years chasing stories and unraveling the mysteries of Buddy Melges.
After growing up with and getting to know the legend Buddy Melges, we became inspired by his groundbreaking and extraordinary achievements. From braving high-stakes competition to pushing the limits of what’s possible on the water, his story is nothing short of epic. As we dug deeper, we learned that Buddy’s defeats and setbacks – and how he overcame them – could teach us more than his victories.
As you set sail with us through this documentary, we hope you’ll feel the thrill of sailing fast, the challenge of the wind, and the spirit of adventure that defines Buddy Melges. So, grab your sailor’s hat, find a comfy spot, and get ready for the cinematic voyage.
Here’s to the legends that inspire us to dream big and sail far!
Anne Peterson and Mark Honer
The Vision
Our project begins with a film about sailing legend Buddy Melges, a story nothing short of inspiring. From his legendary racing feats to his unwavering passion for sailing, Buddy’s journey is a testament to the joy of continuous learning and sharing knowledge with others. But it’s not just about looking back; it’s about inspiring a new generation of sailors to embrace the same spirit of curiosity and camaraderie that Buddy embodied.
Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just curious about the sport, we hope this project lights a spark and encourages you to get out on the water and keep learning.
About the Film
‘MELGES: The Wizard of Zenda’ is a documentary about one of the greatest sailors you’ve never heard of. With unlimited access to behind-the-scenes archival footage, this sports biography captures the UNTOLD story of Buddy Melges, a tenacious competitor with a fiery attitude and the winning record to back it up.
Grab a seat, get comfortable, and join us in celebrating Buddy Melges and the amazing world of sailing.
the Buddy Brigade
One of greatest bonus benefits of producing a film about Buddy Melges is hearing all the stories from the folks he crossed paths with. The ‘Wizard of Zenda’ shared generously and made friends easily so there’s a lot of you. So many in fact, we’ve given you a nickname: The Buddy Brigade. Many of you have sent us stories since we launched the website two years ago, and we’ve decided to share them here and on our Facebook and Instagram pages.