History

Broadstairs Sailing Club was founded in 1936 by Harry Dipple and a group of local enthusiasts. Russell Mallett, the only surviving founder member, is still a Club member at over 90 years old! From rather humble beginnings Broadstairs Sailing Club has developed and flourished becoming one of the foremost Clubs on the Kent coast.

From the early years Broadstairs was always a dinghy racing club and has had a number of successful sailors including World, European and National Champions. Perhaps our most famous member was former Prime Minister Edward Heath who learnt to sail in Broadstairs and went on to sail a Snipe and a Fireball before moving on to success in larger boats.

Many fleets have come and gone over the years, notably Merlin Rockets, Snipes, Mirrors, Fireballs and Lasers but recently there has been a move to more modern Asymmetric dinghies with Laser 2000’s and RS Vareos being the most popular. In addition there is a growing interest in recreational sailing and the Club is becoming progressively more active in training.

For a more detailed history of Broadstairs Sailing Club follow this link for Russell Mallett’s account and memories of the first 60 years.