The annual Bayview Mackinac Race begins Saturday, July 18.
It’s one of the premier sailing events anywhere.
It’s also a showcase for Michigan’s boating culture, and for the long tradition of Great Lakes sailing.
When is the Port Huron to Mackinac race 2026?
The race is scheduled to start the morning of Saturday, July 18. The first scheduled start time is 11:30 a.m., but weather conditions can delay starts, according to the race website.
The starting line on the water is near Port Huron and the race wraps up near Mackinac Island. That’s why it’s also known as the Port Huron to Mackinac Race. Bayview Yacht Club in Detroit organizes it. More than 200 boats were registered as of this week.
The fastest boats are expected to finish on Sunday.
How many years has the Bayview Mackinac Race race been happening?
This is the 102nd race. The first one was in 1925. The race’s longevity is notable.
It’s billed as the “the world’s longest continuously run long distance freshwater yacht race.”
Big national and global events haven’t interrupted it. The race website notes that it took place even during World War II and the Covid-19 pandemic.
Will all the wildfire smoke and health advisories affect this year’s race?
It’s a good question, but the race is still on.
However, a message from Bayview Yacht Club Fleet Surgeon Dr. Kimberly Barbour describes potential health risks and precautions that can be taken by those sailing in the race. Here’s part of that message, posted on the race’s Facebook page on Thursday, July 16:
“The current forecast indicates wildfire smoke will continue to affect the Port Huron to Mackinac Island route through the next several days. Unhealthy to very unhealthy air quality and periods of reduced visibility are expected, particularly Thursday through early next week. While scattered thunderstorms may provide temporary improvement in localized areas, smoke conditions are expected to remain variable over Lake Huron as winds shift. Crews should expect air quality to change throughout the race and monitor marine weather broadcasts, or AirNow.gov for the latest conditions. Be prepared to adjust crew rotations, reduce unnecessary exertion, and take additional precautions if smoke becomes dense or visibility deteriorates.”
Do all the boats follow the same course?
No, some follow the Shore Course, which is listed at 204 nautical miles, according to the race site.
Others follow the Cove Island Course (259 nautical miles).
The Shore Course is more of a straight shot along the western shore of Lake Huron. The Cove Island Course takes boaters to a point near Tobermory on the tip of the Bruce Peninsula and then across the northern part of the lake.
Longtime race competitor Jon Somes called the Cove Island Course more tactically interesting.
Is there anything to know about the 1925 race?
Here’s what the race website has to say:
“The first Bayview Mackinac Race was won by a 32-foot sloop named Bernida. Skippered by Russ Pouliot, Bernida crossed the finish line at Mackinac Island in 48 hours, 49 minutes, and 49 seconds. The 12 competitors experienced a blustery contest that left all but four boats damaged and only six finished.”
Can I follow the race remotely?
You can track the race online:
Is there some kind of award for winning?
According to Colleen Robar, a spokeswoman for the race, boaters “are vying for the J.L. Hudson Trophy. They also receive a special flag, gold charm and a line-drawn plaque.”
Eric D. Lawrence is the senior car culture reporter at the Detroit Free Press, and he also writes about recreational vehicles, boats and bikes. Send your tips and suggestions to elawrence@freepress.com. Become a subscriber. Submit a letter to the editor at freep.com/letters.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Bayview Mackinac Race is this weekend. What to know, how to follow it.
Reporting by Eric D. Lawrence, Detroit Free Press / Detroit Free Press
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By Eric D. Lawrence, Detroit Free Press | USA TODAY Network
