The Chicago to Mackinac Race- A Premier Sailing Event

The Chicago to Mackinac Sailboat Race is one of the oldest and longest freshwater yacht races in America,

It takes place July 22, 2023.

The course covers 333 miles of Lake Michigan.

From Chi-town to Mackinac Island, this trip is not for the faint of heart!.

In 1898, a group of Chicago Yacht Club members wanted to create a challenging sailing race on Lake Michigan.

The inaugural race featured only a handful of boats and is now an epic sailing event known the world over.

It has exploded in popularity and attracts a diverse fleet of boats, ranging from small cruisers to large, high-performance racing yachts.

The race is renowned for its competition along with beautiful scenery along the course.

The boats above are in port at Mackinac (pronounced Mackinaw) Island after the finish of the race.

The “Whitehawk” above is the first to cross the finish line in a race of year’s past.

Unpredictable weather conditions, wind patterns, and the potential of storms are possible out on this open water.

The fleet will pass famous Michigan landmarks such as Sleeping Bear Dunes and the magnificent Mackinac Bridge.

To ensure fair competition among different types of boats, the race is divided into multiple divisions and classes based on boat size, design, and racing capabilities. This allows sailors of varying experience levels to participate and compete within their respective categories.

Over the years, several records have been set in the Chicago-Mac Race. The overall record for the fastest elapsed time was set in 2019 by the racing yacht "Windquest," skippered by Dick and Doug DeVos, with a time of 23 hours, 30 minutes, and 34 seconds.

The Chicago-Mac Race has its own set of traditions and celebrations. The race typically begins with a ceremonial start off Chicago's Navy Pier, where spectators gather to cheer on the participants.

After crossing the finish line at Mackinac Island, sailors and their families enjoy post-race festivities, including the award ceremony and various social events. It is always an epic party with fun to be had by all.

The Chicago-Mac Race holds a significant place in the history of sailing and yachting.

It has become an important event in the Great Lakes region, attracting sailors from around the world. The race showcases the skill, determination, and camaraderie of the sailing community while highlighting the beauty of Lake Michigan and its surroundings.

Today, the Chicago-Mac Race continues to thrive as one of the premier sailing events, attracting hundreds of boats and thousands of participants. It remains a thrilling and highly anticipated competition that tests the skills and endurance of sailors while promoting a deep appreciation for the sport and the Great Lakes.