First Ribbon Cut for the Yacht Club’s 150 Campaign

The Florida Yacht Club is one step closer to its goal of wrapping up the largest and most comprehensive renovation in its 150-year history. Dubbed “FYC150,” the campaign includes several phases of construction, the first of which officially opened on Dec. 11. On a chilly, but celebratory Wednesday evening on club grounds, a ribbon cutting took place at the newly minted fitness center.

The evening was topped off with a toast, after comments by FYC Commodore Christian George, FYC General Manager Carol Edell, FYC150 Project Chair Matthew E. Kenyon, and FYC Pool and Fitness Director Brad Martens.

Edell thanked the entire team of staffers, contractors and committee members, before Martens took the podium.

“When you see me walking around campus in the next month or so and I have a permanent smile on my face, you will know why, this is awesome,” shared Martens. “We’ve been behind the curve for a long time when it comes to club fitness and with what we have done here, what we have now, I believe we are now setting the curve…this is the Gold Standard.”

After thanking all parties involved and sharing some personal sentiments, George raised a glass with fellow members, staff, and guests while sharing high praise for progress at the club.

The FYC150 Project is poised to continue through 2025, wrapping up officially in 2026 during the celebration of 150 years for the historic club on the St. Johns River.

The FYC150 Project includes restoration of the main marina basin, including a protective rock jetty, construction of an additional indoor/outdoor dining venue, The River Porch + Bar. A complete transformation of the pool areas will now bring a resort-style facility designed for social interaction to life, along with the latest expansion and enhancement of the Fitness Center. The addition of four pickleball courts and one sport court will round out the yearlong celebration in 2026, which will engage all facets of the club and its membership.