Manila Yacht Club

Manila Yacht Club was the brainchild of five yachtsmen. The club was formed in order to promote sailing throughout Manila and nurture the talent of the emerging yachtsmen. The Yacht Club of Manila is one of the prime sailing clubs in Manila and is associated with the Philippine Sailing Association. September to May is the racing season of the club where various types of racing events are held. Among the various racing events conducted by the Manila Yacht Club, the President's Cup Regatta is the most awaited one. This particular event takes place after Easter. Today, Manila Yacht Club is one of the prime Manila attractions.

History of Manila Yacht Club

The Manila Yacht Club was established by five individuals interested to promote the aquatic sport. They are Joseph A. Thomas, A.S. Heyward, James C. Rockwell, Stewart E. Tait and Aubrey P. Ames. Besides promoting sailing, the club also aimed at encouraging sportsmanship among the team members. The club bears an interesting historical past. It suffered a tumultuous period ever since its inception. The terms and conditions of the Yacht Club of Manila were drafted on January 20 in the year 1927. However, during the outbreak of the Second World War, sailing was stopped from 1941-1945. The boats were seized by the American soldiers, who came to liberate Philippines. They feared that the Japanese Imperial Army may make use of the boats in order to capture Corregidor Island. Therefore, as a result, some of the boats were burnt down and the others were drowned.

About the Yacht Club

The membership of the club was open to both men and women. After the Second World War, sailing started. In the 1950s, it was made a rule that persons with passion for sailing can only become a member of the club. However, this decision of the club was revised and once again the membership was open to all. Most of the members of the club were Americans and its expatriates after the Second World War. Gradually the Yacht Club of Manila started taking part in several international sailing events. Philippines was the first Asian country to take part in the Olympics yachting events. Due to the Asian Economic Crisis the club suffered a setback as sailing went down.

Facilities Offered

Apart from sailing the Manila Yacht Club also provides some other facilities. these include banquet facilities and club dining. The place is often frequented by business tycoons and eminent personalities.