The HYC was founded in 1897.[3] Originally called the Houston Yacht & Powerboat Club,[4][5] its name was changed to Houston Yacht Club in 1927, when its current Spanish-style clubhouse was built,[6][7] which has been declared an historic landmark in the Galveston Bay area of the Gulf Coast. The 27,000 square-foot clubhouse has amenities for boating enthusiasts of all ages, including bar and restaurant facilities, lounges, a ballroom with stage, meeting rooms, shower rooms, and overnight guest rooms. The pink stucco structure is affectionately called the "Pink Palace" by members.[8]
As well as local events,[9][10] the HYC has hosted many national and international regattas on Galveston Bay.[11] In 1929 and 1941, it hosted the Lipton Cup race.[12] In 2015, it hosted the J22 North American Championship.[13]
Many of the club's sailors have competed nationally and internationally,[14] including Olympic sailors John Kolius and Charlie Ogletree.[15]
^"Houston, Texas, host to fastest hydroplane". Motorboating - ND. July 1927. p. 106.
^Martin, Lynn (April 1987). "Yachtline"(PDF). The Reign of The Pink Palace. Retrieved September 15, 2016 – via Rice University Woodson Research Center.
