RCIYC: 160th Anniversary Sail Past
This
year marks the 160th anniversary of the Royal Channel Islands
Yacht Club that was formed in 1862, the Club will be celebrating with a Sail
Past of motor and sailing vessels, between the club house, St Aubin, and St
Aubins Fort on Thursday 14th July at 19:00.
The RCIYC is thought to be the 6th oldest 'Royal' yacht club in the world.
The pre-1862 Jersey Yacht and Rowing Club became a Royal club with Queen Victorias assent. Her Majesty gave subsequent permission for the Club to be known as the Royal Channel Islands Yacht Club and the Board of the Admiralty authorised the Club to wear a defaced blue ensign.
Thanks to Antarctic explorer Sir Vivian Fuchs, the RCIYC Burgee was the first to reach the South Pole; Actress and Socialite Lillie Langtry was the first female member of the Club in 1892.
The RCIYC owns its premises in St Aubin, where it has been based since the end of the Second World War; prior to the Occupation it was based in St Helier.
Now in its 160th year, the RCIYC has around 2,000 members and continues to support sailing activity in Jersey with an extensive programme of cadet sailing opportunities, the largest Hobie Cat Fleet in the British Isles and a busy inshore and offshore racing calendar throughout the year. The club house also boasts one of the best locations on the island for sailors and social members to meet and enjoy the ambience of their club.
Honorary Sailing Secretary Bill Harris, who has been heavily involved with the club for 40 years, has organised the Sail Past said We hope to see as many members taking part as are able to, and to see club members and members of the public coming to enjoy the spectacle.
Commodore James Wilding also commented We are pleased to be celebrating another significant milestone in the Clubs long history.
Members wishing to take part in the Sail Past should register their vessel by emailing office@rciyc.je