Chris Burke Turns 80 - and the Club Still Can't Keep Up!

Published 00:00 on 2 Jan 2026

If anyone still believed that turning 80 means slowing down, Chris Burke firmly put that myth to rest with a birthday celebration that will be talked about in the club for years to come.

The evening got off to a sensational start with steel drum music played by Chris's daughter and granddaughter. From the very first notes, the mood was set - sunshine vibes, smiles all around, and hips swaying before most people had even put their coats down. It was joyful, uplifting, and quite simply brilliant. As the rhythms carried us along, an absolutely stunning Thai buffet appeared, prepared by the ever-talented Chris Painter and his team. The food was as generous as it was delicious - beautifully cooked, full of flavour, and in such abundance that no one left hungry (despite many determined efforts to "just try one more dish").

With spirits high and plates full, the evening flowed effortlessly into sea shanty singing, laughter, and a speech that managed to be both very funny and perfectly on point - celebrating Chris's extraordinary life, his sailing achievements, and his unstoppable energy. Gifts were presented, cake was enjoyed, and applause filled the room.The spectacular birthday cake, baked by Jess and team - finished only at 1:00 a.m. the night before the party, and absolutely worth every late-night minute.

And then came the dancing.

True to form, Chris himself was out on the dance floor, swinging away with a grin that said everything. Eighty years young, surrounded by friends, family, and fellow sailors - he was clearly having the time of his life.

As if that weren't enough, the celebrations didn't stop at the club. As part of his gifts, Chris also received extra treats with his family, including a trip to Paris - a fitting extension to a birthday worthy of a man who never does things by halves. It was a fabulous evening from start to finish: music, food, laughter, friendship, and dancing - everything that makes our sailing club such a special place. Happy 80th Birthday, Captain Burke.

You set the pace - and the rest of us are still trying to keep up.

Photos of Chris and his family enjoying the birthday present in Paris.