Clemson has long provided countless opportunities for students to get involved and enjoy campus life. For the third year in a row, there has been one club sport that has stood out above all others: Clemson Sailing Club, our Best Club Sport winner.
Clemson’s Sailing Club is more than just a watersport; it is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories and become part of a special, close-knit community of incredible people.
Originating in 1969, the student-led club has grown tremendously, with members who are truly passionate about the thrill of sailing and the friendships that come along with it. As both a recreational club and a competitive racing team, the club began with only three sailboats. But, as it grew, its dedicated members were able to sell those and gain six 420 dinghies that took the club to the next level. From there, the Sailing Club established its reputation across the community of Clemson as a worthy organization, one that holds true today.
This year’s Commodore, junior Mason Baird, spoke on the organization’s greatness and highlighted the devoted teaching environment the club fosters.
“You can come into college, never having sailed before, and then by the end of it be on an inner collegiate team racing across the Southeast,” Baird said in an interview with The Tiger.
Not only does the club encourage the ability to sail, but it also promotes an environment that welcomes a strong community and extraordinary friendships among Clemson students.
“It’s more than a sport to us; it is a community. We love having as many people and friends involved as possible,” Baird said. “The best thing I have found at Clemson is the friendship and community within the club, and being able to get to know people with a similar passion was truly so meaningful when I first got to Clemson.”
Baird, who grew up sailing off of Charleston, South Carolina, is more than happy to gain new members and share the pure fulfillment of sailing and the club’s culture as a whole. Not to mention, what could be better than spending an afternoon sailing across Clemson’s beautiful Lake Hartwell, then joining your friends at an evening dockside grill out?
If you’re interested in joining, visit the Sailing Club at Tiger Prowl this fall, check out their website, or explore their club page on TigerQuest.
Address:
275 YMCA Circle
Seneca, SC 29678
www.clemsonsailingclub.com // @clemsonsailing (Instagram)
