Royal Ocean Racing Club and Royal Corinthian Yacht Club agree merger

by Louay Habib on 29 Aug 2014 Members of the Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC) and the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club, Cowes (RCYC) have confirmed that the two clubs will merge to form one club. At Extraordinary General Meetings of RCYC (held on 24 August) and RORC (held on 28 August) an overwhelming majority of members voted in favour of the merger, in the case of RORC 93% and in the case of RCYC (Cowes) 87% of members that voted.

'This is an important milestone in the history and development of the RORC, which celebrates its 90th year in 2015' explained RORC Commodore Mike Greville. 'The proposal to combine the two clubs evolved from a shared vision about what they could create together, which neither could achieve alone. For RORC this gives a permanent base and clubhouse facility at the very heart of UK yachting and for RCYC this creates a strong club at the forefront of international yachting, which can support its development as a preeminent Solent club. We are very encouraged by the huge level of support which this proposal has generated from members of both clubs. '

RCYC Vice Commodore, Amanda Dreyer was equally positive about the decision. 'During our initial discussions with RORC earlier this year, we identified that both RCYC and RORC have similar cultures and long-term strategies for growth. With RCYC’s objective to be a vibrant club offering improved facilities, and RORC’s vision for a base in Cowes, there are powerful and mutual benefits for both great clubs. I am delighted the merger has the approval of our Members and in the confidence this gives to Cowes, to be at the heart of yachting.'

The combined Club will operate under the name of RORC although the Royal Corinthian name will be preserved for use in connection with the Cowes clubhouse and Solent based inshore racing. The headquarters of the Club will remain at the London clubhouse in St James’s .

The effective date of the merger is expected to be 10 November 2014.