Royal Cork Yacht Club, why is it called that?

Question

Have a friend who sails there and was confused by the name. How can it be the royal Cork yacht club. I grew up in the 80s where as a kid id have to listen to all the irish politics. But if they are so proud to be the republic of Ireland, how can the cork yacht club call itself Royal - or do they just want the prestige! Im sure theres a good reason

Answer 1

OK Wikipedia to the rescue

the club was formed in 1720 before the Republic of Ireland was created. As the oldest yacht club in the world any name change would risk losing its heritage.