The Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac presented by Wintrust announced today the introduction of a new award for the 2026 race: the Mixed Plus Award, recognizing top-performing teams that prioritize inclusive crew composition.
The Mixed Plus Award will be presented to teams with a maximum of 50% male sailors over the age of 18—an initiative designed to encourage participation by women and youth sailors across the fleet. This marks the first time in the Race’s 117-year history that an award of this kind has been formally introduced.
Eligible teams may opt into the Mixed Plus Award once they have completed race entry and meet the outlined crew composition criteria, with the first eligible team in each division to finish on corrected time winning the award.
“The Mac Race has always balanced tradition with a responsibility to help grow the sport of offshore racing,” said Race Chairman Kevin Foote. “This award is a natural step forward—one that encourages broader participation while maintaining the competitive integrity that defines this race. We’re excited to see how teams embrace this opportunity.”
Chicago Yacht Club Commodore Laura Sigmond emphasized the importance of broadening access and opportunity for women in the sport alongside meaningful youth participation.
“Creating more pathways for women and youth to participate at a high level is essential to the future of our sport,” said Sigmond. “The Mixed Plus Award is about opening doors, fostering team development, and recognizing those who are actively building more inclusive crews on the starting line.”
The 2026 Race to Mackinac will begin July 10 and 11, 2026, with 273 boats currently entered to take on the iconic 333-mile course from Chicago to Mackinac Island, Michigan. Known for its skyline start, challenging conditions, and dramatic landmarks, the Race to Mackinac looks to continue building on its legacy as America’s offshore challenge.
For more information on the Mixed Plus Award and race entry, please visit cycracetomackinac.com. The Mackinac Committee expects registration for the Mixed Plus Award to go live in early June, with additional details and instructions to be shared as that date approaches.