It was a triumphant return to San Diego for the ‘Wizard of Zenda’. The legendary sailor has passed, but the film exploring the life of Buddy Melges continues its tour across the U.S. Most recently, the San Diego Yacht Club, scene of Buddy’s 1992 America’s Cup victory, hosted a screening of the documentary. An audience of 75-80 were treated to the film, introduced by Scuttlebutt Sailing News Editor Craig Leweck.
Event manager Sophia Pedrosa said, “the members were excited to see the film and I’ve heard nothing but great feedback”. Among the notable guests was Melges family members, including Buddy’s daughter Laura. Club member Nathan Brenner gave this warm review: “The film was incredible and the America Cubed history was certainly not lost on SDYC. Thanks for making the film and putting it in front of so many sailors. Wizard of Zenda was a “10” and so is Buddy, whose legacy shines brighter through your film!”
Another first for the film was a screening on Canadian soil. About 85 members of the Buffal Canoe Club in Ridgeway, Ontario saw the film. ROLEX Yachtsman of the Year Finalist David Stark reports it was well received.
NEXT UP ON THE SCREENING SCHEDULE:
June 20 – Block Island Yacht Club – Fundraiser for dock repairs
June 23 – Seaside Park Yacht Club – Private for members and E Scow sailors
June 24 – Milwaukee Yacht Club – Fundraiser-Milwaukee YC Foundation
Finally, we close with a story from Buddy Brigade member Frank Wintroub:
I’m a big fan of scows. I’ve owned four and sailed a bunch more. My love of sailing got started at age 10 when I got to ride on the bow of a canvas deck, wood hulled E in 1959. In those days there were wood handle bars on the bow.
I’ve been to Zenda many times. Once I was there getting a part for my old E Scow, wandering around the plant. We were admiring a brand new E hull and all of a sudden Buddy popped up out of the cockpit. ‘Hi’, he says. My mouth was clearly hanging open in astonishment – so he adds, ‘oh yeah, I was just screwing in some fittings to finish up in here.’ Well I was completely gobsmacked and felt like maybe I’d just seen the sailing God. He said ‘anything I can help you with or answer any questions?’ Wow!!! I was dazed for the rest of the day. I’d desperately love to see the movie. (Since Frank lives four hours from the nearest screening we sent him a DVD)
Thank you Frank. And thanks to the sailing community for supporting our film. Keep the stories and screening requests coming.
Anne Peterson – Executive Producer
Mark Honer – Writer/Director
