(Above) Sailboats racing in Mackinac 2015. Photo by Michele Almeida. (Click on images to view larger versions.)

22-Apr-16 – The 333-mile stretch to Mackinac Island this year will not be lonely. More than 300 sailboats – manned by more than 3,000 crew members – are registered for the Race to Mackinac on July 23. It is the most ever, says the Chicago Yacht Club.

Race chairman Don Maxwell, who has participated in 15 races to Mackinac Island, Michigan, says interest in sailing has never been better.

“There is a lot of excitement around sailing in Chicago this year with more opportunities to enjoy the water,” says Maxwell. “In particular, the return of the tall ships and the coming of the Louis Vuitton America’s Cup World Series in June.”

Don Maxwell (left), race chairman for 2016 and 2017, with 2014-15 chairman Matt Gallagher. Photo by Zachary Johnston.

The Race to Mackinac is the oldest annual freshwater distance race in the world. The event starts with the “parade of boats” from the east end of Navy pier at 10:00 a.m. on July 23.

Lake Michigan will be America’s Cup event’s first fresh water

Louis Vuitton America’s Cup World Series Chicago is scheduled for June 10-12 at Navy Pier – and in fresh water for the first time in the event’s 165-year history.

It is part of a series of races leading to the 35th America’s Cup in Bermuda next year. The start and finish lines will be near a “Race Village” setup on the east end of Navy Pier, with tickets sold for admission. The race can still be viewed elsewhere on Navy Pier and along the lakefront.

(Above) Racers in last year’s Louis Vuitton America’s Cup World Series, which was held in Portsmouth, England.

In addition to racing by some of the world’s best sailboat racers, the event will include live music and fireworks.