Torbay sailors ride a 90-year wave

A Torbay sailing club is celebrating a remarkable 90 years of tradition, camaraderie and sport.

Babbacombe Corinthian Sailing Club (BCSC) was founded in 1935 on the beautiful Oddicombe Beach, by Henry Thomas.

The club has been a cornerstone of the local community, growing from humble beginnings into a thriving establishment with nearly 300 members.

The first race at Oddicombe Beach took place on July 6, 1935, with six boats competing, and was won by 'Bumble Bee', sailed by Mr S. W. Francis.

With its rich history, exciting sailing events and strong social presence, the club continues to make waves – on and off the water.

The story of BCSC began when Henry Thomas secured exclusive rights to Oddicombe Beach for bathing, boating, and catering.

At first the club operated from an old fisherman's hut on Oddicombe Beach. This building has been extended and modernised over the 90-year history and the hut’s stone walls still form part of the bottom storey of the present clubhouse.

Sailors use the much-improved Oddicombe Beach clubhouse during races on Tuesday evenings and Sunday mornings. The club is also a proud participant in the Royal Yachting Association’s Junior OnBoard initiative, running a 12-week program on Friday evenings designed to introduce young people to the joys of sailing.

BCSC also offers dinghy and powerboat courses, and members can hire the club's sailing dinghies for designated sessions, making it easier to get out on the water.

But BCSC has evolved into much more than a sailing club. It has become a haven for people of all ages and interests, offering a mix of social, educational and sporting activities.

"Not everyone realises that we welcome non-sailors as well as sailors," says the current Commodore, Adrian Mark. "We have an active social side to the club, with events like film nights, food gatherings and quiz nights that bring everyone together in our top clubhouse in St Marychurch. It’s about fostering a strong sense of community."

As a volunteer-run, non-profit organization BCSC relies on the support of its members to keep things running smoothly. Any proceeds from social events go directly into maintaining and enhancing sailing facilities.

Despite its many offerings, the cost of joining is more affordable than many people might expect. For those who are curious about what the club has to offer, a visit to the website (babbacombe-sc.com) provides details on membership and the full range of activities available.

The club is not standing still. One of the proudest achievements is the recent redevelopment of its beach clubhouse. With the help of generous sponsors, the clubhouse has been extended and modernised to a high standard, complete with new showers and, after 90 years, its own toilets.

BCSC is planning a series of celebrations throughout the year to mark its milestone anniversary.

In June, the club will host a BBQ at the top clubhouse in St Marychurch, inviting current and past members to gather in a festive atmosphere. If you were a previous member and would like to join the celebrations, please let Lyn know at babbacombe.corinthians@gmail.com

In November the club will hold an Anniversary Dinner at the Waddling Duck, a fitting tribute to nine decades of achievement and community spirit.

"We believe our club has a lot to offer its members, and we hope as many as possible will join us in celebrating this very special occasion," Adrian said.

“Whether you’re an experienced sailor, a newcomer looking to learn the ropes or simply searching for a welcoming social community, Babbacombe Corinthian Sailing Club has something to offer.

“Here's to 90 years of fun, friendship, and sailing on the beautiful shores of Oddicombe Beach.”