Aldridge Sailing Club (A.S.C) was formed in the summer of 1967 by a group of people that were building sailing dinghies at Aldridge Road School, Great Barr, and had nowhere to sail.

A committee was set up to investigate the viability of forming a sailing club. After several meetings with Aldridge District Council, permission was granted to use the pool to sail on, however it was stipulated that no buildings could be erected. The pool was polluted at this time, having a very high octane rating. It was always a problem in the early days, however with the rise in awareness of environmental issues, this problem could be tackled an overcome. Although it took 25 years, this has now been achieved. Today, the pool attracts many rare birds, animals, fish and plant life. It is true to say, without the constant lobbying of members over the years, this problem would have persisted.

With new permission to build, the clubhouse was erected in 1971/2 and finished in 1973/4. The club could now offer hot showers, secure changing rooms and toilet facilities for the comfort of its members. More importantly, the bar provided a social gathering place for members to sit and talk about the ‘odd wind shift’ that lost them a race. The clubhouse was also to serve as a venue for many future social occasions including some very adventurous dinners and discos.

A.S.C has failed to attract a top racing fleet due to the small expanse of water. However, it has passed on many championship winning sailors to other clubs.

In later years the club has focused upon the teaching of sailing, and is now a recognized R.Y.A teaching establishment. We have several quality instructors and a fleet of instruction boats. The club has recently applied for a lottery grant to upgrade the training boats so that race training and advanced techniques can be taught.

Aldridge Sailing Club is now in its 41^st year, is a testimonial to the people who started in back in 1967. Sadly, we no longer have some of those original members, but the overriding friendly, family atmosphere of the club and the welcoming approach makes it a unique club in the area.