LARGEST ANNUAL OFFSHORE RACE IN THE WORLD RETURNS JULY 10–11, 2026
CHICAGO, November 19, 2025 – Chicago Yacht Club today announced that the 117th Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac presented by Wintrust, the largest annual offshore race in the world, will begin July 10 and 11, 2026.
Entry registration will open December 2, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. CST at cycracetomackinac.com.
The 2026 edition will again feature the iconic 333-mile passage from Chicago’s skyline start to Mackinac Island, a bucket-list test known for its competitive fleet, varied conditions, and welcoming environment for new teams—enhanced this year by the introduction of a new crew-composition award that reflects the race’s continued evolution.
“Year after year, the Mac Race delivers an irresistible combination of adventure, competition, and spectacle that is unmatched in offshore racing across the globe,” said Race Chairman Kevin Foote.
“Just two years ago, we had one of the fastest races in history with the 22-year monohull record being broken. Last year, nearly 300 entries—the largest fleet in recent memory—competed in a tactical thriller with unpredictable conditions almost the entire way to the island. When you pair this with its iconic landmarks, skyline start, and unforgettable finish, it's clear why the race continues to grow in popularity.”
Teams are strongly encouraged to fulfill their entry requirements as early as possible. Dockage on Mackinac Island is limited, and with a large fleet expected, early entry provides the best likelihood of having your docking preference accommodated.
For more information on entering the race, competitors can refer to the Race’s Entry Guide.
Building on the race’s commitment to expanding access and growing participation, the Chicago Yacht Club is excited to announce new “Mixed-Plus” awards, given to the top-performing team in each division whose crew has a qualifying percentage of women and/or youth sailors under age 18.
This new award underscores Chicago Yacht Club’s long-term investment in developing a more inclusive, diverse, and future-focused offshore sailing community—one that welcomes both new competitors and the next generation of sailors to the Mac Race starting line.
The 2026 Race to Mackinac will again welcome and celebrate inaugural entries—an important and growing group within the Mac Race community.
The Race to Mackinac is proud of its strong reputation among first-time offshore teams, as its duration, proximity to land, and highly supportive race-management environment contribute to an ideal experience for newcomers.
As in past years, inaugural entries may qualify for $150 off their entry fee to help offset the initial costs of getting “race ready.”
Additionally, all inaugural entries will compete for the Mark H. Baxter Trophy, awarded to the fastest inaugural entry—a tradition introduced in 2024 to honor excellence among newcomers.
Registration for the 117th Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac presented by Wintrust opens December 2nd. Please visit cycracetomackinac.com for more information on how to enter or email the race at regattamanager@cycracetomackinac.com.