Founded in 1770, Lough Ree Yacht Club's tradition of organised pleasure boating in Athlone goes back to at least 1731. A regatta on the Shannon was amongst the 'diversions' promised for a festival week in the town.

The club has very active fleets of Shannon One Designs, cruisers, mirrors, Picos and Optimists, with racing going on most weekends in one or more classes.

The club continues in the tradition of its 240 years to be a convivial centre of sailing on Lough Ree and the host to many important sailing events.