Chicago Yacht Club Launches Special Edition of Race to Mackinac for 150th Anniversary
by Laura Muma 25 Oct 07:12 PDT
July 18-19, 2025
Start of the 115th Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac, presented by Wintrust © Barry Butler
Registration opens December 2, 2024, for the sought-after offshore race.
To mark its 150th anniversary, the Chicago Yacht Club has introduced a special edition of its renowned annual race, the 116th Race to Mackinac presented by Wintrust, with registration starting on December 2 at 12 p.m. CST.
Affectionately known as the Mac Race, this event will commence on July 18-19, 2025, celebrating the club’s founding in 1875 with unique entry incentives, the rare “Ultra Mac,” and an impressive fireworks display on Mackinac Island, among other special events.
“The Race to Mackinac is a dream race for sailors nationwide and globally, and we aim to gather as many competitors as possible to honor our iconic race and the Chicago Yacht Club’s legacy,” said Race Chairman Winn Soldani.
A new registration policy has been announced for the 116th edition. Instead of sending invitations to participate, registration will open to all yachts on December 2nd, requiring a non-refundable deposit. Competing teams are encouraged to complete the online entry process promptly, as preferred docking will be allocated based on the order of completed entries.
Entry for this edition of the race is limited to 325 boats, anticipating high demand.
To commemorate CYC’s 150th Anniversary, new entries (those not previously entered) can qualify for a $150 discount on their entry fee to assist with the initial costs of preparing their boat for the race.
Soldani stated that participants and supporters of the 2025 Mac Race should anticipate an extraordinary milestone event, complete with numerous special events and awards to be announced, ending with fireworks at Mackinac Island to celebrate the significant occasion.
“We’ve crafted this year’s race to be memorable, and we hope to host sailors at a unique edition of one of the world’s premier races in July 2025,” said Soldani. “Whether you’re a returning competitor or considering your first race, this is the year to join us, and we are prepared to assist you in reaching the starting line.”
In commemoration of CYC’s 150th anniversary, the exclusive “Ultra Mac” will take place—a thrilling competition where teams race the Bayview Mackinac Race starting on July 12, 2024, from Port Huron, Mich., to Mackinac Island, then continuing down Lake Michigan to finish in Chicago. The Ultra Mac has occurred only once in the last 25 years.
Registration for the 116th Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac presented by Wintrust begins December 1st. For more details on how to register, please visit https://cycracetomackinac.com/ or email the race at.
