Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac

Overview of the Chicago Yacht Race to Mackinac - 2009:

The Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac is the longest, annual freshwater sailing race in the world. It takes place on Lake Michigan.

In 2008, sailors and spectators from around the world descended on Chicago to celebrate the historic 100th running of "the Mac." The race departs from Chicago and finishes at Mackinac (pronounced Mack-ih-naw) Island in Michigan, near the upper peninsula.

Related Reading: Spectator Guide for the Race to Mackinac

When - Dates of the Chicago Race to Mackinac:

The "Mac" is held every year in July. In 2009, the race will begin on Saturday, July 18. Entrants race continually until they arrive. Most finish the race between 40 and 60 hours after their start, but the fastest race time on record is just under 19 hours.

Start and Finish Lines for the Chicago Race to Mackinac:

The race will depart from a starting point just off the shores of downtown Chicago, east of Navy Pier. The finish line is located between the Round Island lighthouse and the race committee trailer on Mackinac Island.

See rough race course map here.

Key Facts for the Race to Mackinac:

• The race is 333 miles or 289.4 nautical miles long.
• The Mac is an amateur event. No prize money is awarded.
• The first Mac was held in 1898 when five boats competed. It did not become a consistent, annual event until 1921.
• The record for the fastest completion of the Mac went to Steve Fossett and Stars and Stripes in 1998. His time was 18 hours, 50 minutes, and 32 seconds.
• More than 450 boats have entered this year carrying approximately 4,500 crew members.
• Entrants who have competed in 25 Macs become "old goats" and are invited to join the Island Goat Sailing Society.

Essential Sites for the Race to Mackinac:

Chicago Yacht Club Official Race to Mackinac Website
Island Goats Sailing Society