Overview
Lough Ree Yacht Club at Coosan, just north of Athlone, was founded in 1770 and calls itself the second-oldest sailing club in the world; it sailed as Athlone Yacht Club until 1895, when it took its present name and the lion and roses of Athlone's arms for its burgee. The Shannon One Design, introduced in 1922 as an affordable racing dinghy, is still the club's signature class, and juniors have sailed Optimists since 1968, joined by Mirrors, Lasers, 420s, Fevas and Picos. The highlight is the week-long Annual Regatta in early August on Lough Ree, with classes from Shannon One Designs and keelboats to Optimists; the club also runs junior and adult courses.
- Founded
- 1770
- Federation
- Irish Sailing
- secretary@lryc.ie
On the water with VesselSOS
- Family see you from shoreA live link in any browser – they don’t need the app.
- One tap to the right rescue centreThe app finds the rescue centre for where you are, with your position and call script even without signal.
- Return-time checkIf you’re not back in time, your people know.
- Shared hazard mapRocks, nets and other hazards reported by other boaters.
Regattas and series
Run or hosted by the club, per the club website. Dates and notices are on the club site.
- LRYC Annual Regattaweek-long regatta for Shannon One Designs, keelboats and dinghies (1–7 August 2026)
Live map, a start clock on every phone and results — when the club runs a race on VesselSOS Racing, it shows up here. Racing is a pilot with clubs for the 2027 season.
No race running right nowSee VesselSOS RacingSailing school and courses
Boat classes
History and achievements
- 1731A Shannon regatta is among the diversions of a festival week in Athlone
- 1770The club is founded as Athlone Yacht Club
- 1895Renamed Lough Ree Yacht Club; the lion and roses of Athlone's arms become the burgee
- 1922The Shannon One Design dinghy is introduced to the club
- 1968Junior sailing starts with a dozen Optimists
Home harbour & location
- Position
- 53°27.04′ N 7°57.69′ W
53.45060, -7.96152 - Address
- Ballyglass, Coosan
Frequently asked
Can I learn to sail here?
Yes. The club lists these courses: Junior Course and Adult Courses.
When was Lough Ree Yacht Club founded?
In 1770.
Which regattas does the club run?
According to the club website, among others: LRYC Annual Regatta.