Irish Sailing extends its congratulations to the Royal Irish Yacht Club as it celebrates the 195th anniversary of its foundation, marking almost two centuries of contribution to sailing in Ireland.
Since its establishment in 1831, the Royal Irish Yacht Club has played a central role in the development of Irish sailing, hosting major national and international events while producing generations of accomplished sailors, including Olympians, world champions and offshore racing successes.
Celebrations began last Friday evening with a special reception for members and guests at the club's historic waterfront clubhouse in Dún Laoghaire. Among those in attendance was Government Minister and local TD Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, who congratulated the club on reaching this significant milestone and wished Commodore Winifred Kelliher and all members continued success for the future. Commodore Kelliher also holds the distinction of being the first female Commodore elected in the club's 195-year history.
The anniversary programme continued over the weekend with a two-day Classic Boat Regatta. Competitors enjoyed excellent sailing conditions on Dublin Bay, with a diverse fleet of classic yachts providing a spectacular sight on the water.
The celebrations will continue this weekend with the club's annual Royal Irish Yacht Club Regatta, one of the highlights of the Dublin Bay sailing calendar.
As one of Ireland's most historic sailing institutions, the Royal Irish Yacht Club has made an enormous contribution to the sport over many generations. Irish Sailing wishes the club, its members and volunteers every success as they celebrate this remarkable anniversary and look forward to many more years at the heart of Irish sailing.