Public Invited to Riverton Yacht Club's Season-Opener

The public is invited to help Riverton Yacht Club open its 150th anniversary sailing season.

A crowd is expected as RYC officially opens its gates, fires a canon and raises its unique swallowtail flag.

That symbol includes a stars-and-stripes design that was outlawed soon after RYC was formed, making it one of a kind among United States organizations.

In addition to refreshments, the club will present a whimsical regatta of small-scale, radio-controlled boats modeled after the J-class vessels that make up one of its most active fleets.

SATURDAY, APRIL 11

10 a.m. to 3 pm -- J-Class Model Boat demonstration

11:30 a.m. -- Canon firing and flag raising

12 noon -- Snacks and hot dogs for all guests

The celebration is at Riverton Yacht Club, where Main Street ends at Bank Avenue/Delaware River. From Route 130, follow Riverton Road northwest. It becomes Main Street in the historic borough of Riverton, and ends at the yacht club. Call in advance to arrange parking on site, or find a spot along Main Street.

Riverton Yacht Club is the oldest club of its kind on the Delaware River, oldest in New Jersey, and one of the oldest in the United States with continuous service.

Opening Day kicks off a season of races, lessons for youths and adults, and gatherings for fun and fundraising.

RYC has about 250 members, but passersby are welcome to enjoy the sights and sounds from the pier during races.

Events throughout the season are open to the public, a friendliness that is not the rule at other sailing clubs.