About ODC

The name Oriental Dinghy Club harkens back to the club's beginnings three decades ago. Locals, and a steady stream of visiting sailors from North Carolina's cities to the West, gathered to race small dinghies. Since then, the club and the town have grown in prominence and have hosted district, regional, and national events for numerous one-design class organizations.

A member of US Sailing and SAYRA (South Atlantic Yacht Racing Assn), ODC encourages and promotes amateur participation in sailboat racing on the Neuse River and the Pamlico Sound.

Youth sailing

ODC is active in supporting youth sailboat racing by supporting the Croakerfest Regatta, the Hoop Pole Regatta, and the Greens Creek Challenge. Additionally, the Oriental area is home to several of the nation's top youth sailing camps including Camp Sea Gull, Camp Seafarer, and Bow to Stern Boating Center. A number of our children, who were ODC Junior Members, have continued to compete on the intercollegiate level. Currently, former Juniors sail for Harvard, Columbia University, NC State University, and the US Naval Academy.

Training

ODC holds seminars and workshops on the Racing Rules of Sailing (RRS) and Race Management. Plans are to expand and formalize training for members including topics on sail trim, tactics, crew recruiting/retaining, and boat handling.

Social events

ODC has several social  events each season:  the Spring Kickoff Party and the year-end Annual Meeting & Awards dinner. Additionally, members get together after every race day to swap stories, congratulate the day's winners and enjoy a beverage with friends.