The Christchurch Model Yacht Club celebrated sailing on Lake Victoria in the central city’s Hagley Park for 125 years with an Open Day and regatta on the exact anniversary, June 17th.

Claiming to be the second-oldest model yacht club in the world, in continuous operation since 1898, the club has been part of Christchurch’s cultural make-up throughout that time.

Club Patron, Mayor Phil Mauger, congratulated the club and unveiled a plaque on the occasion.

An impressive display of historic model boats lined up against state-of-the-art modern RC yachts.

The Founders Trophy race was the highlight of the day, the racing started using a replica cannon. About 60 boats managed three heats in very calm conditions. Winner, Bruce Edgar, took first place with the same boat and set-up he used in the same race in 1998!

Members were busy helping visitors ‘Try Sailing’.

Heavy rain in the afternoon did not deter the skippers and having so many boats on the lake made for an impressive event.

Commodore Ron Bedyn said, “The event showed the strength of the club, and the evolving popularity of the sport. CMYC has almost 100 members, and a long history of innovation and competitive sailing. The success of the day gives us confidence we have many years of great sailing ahead of us.”

A celebratory dinner was held in the evening, where Mayor Mauger again confirmed his support for the club and announced three new life members.

www.christchurchmodelyachting.org.nz