116th Race to Mackinac Set to Launch from Chicago

The countdown has begun as the 116th Race to Mackinac prepares to launch from Chicago this Friday. This prestigious sailing event will see nearly 300 boats and around 2,500 sailors embark on a challenging 333-mile journey across Lake Michigan, starting from Navy Pier and heading to Mackinac Island, Michigan.

Hosted by the Chicago Yacht Club, this year’s race is particularly special as it coincides with the club's 150th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in its storied history.

Participants will set sail in two divisions: the cruising division, which offers a more relaxed pace, departs on Friday, while the racing division, featuring high-speed vessels, will take off on Saturday.

For those eager to follow the progress of the race, the Chicago Yacht Club provides a live race tracker on its website, allowing fans to stay updated throughout the week.

Competitors in the fastest boats can complete the race in approximately 20 to 22 hours, although most participants typically finish within a range of 40 to 60 hours, according to insights from the Chicago Yacht Club.

Viewers can catch the excitement of the race's start on Friday via streaming platforms including the CBS News app and website, Paramount Plus, and Pluto TV, beginning around 2:30 p.m.

With a rich tradition and a vibrant community of sailors, this year's Race to Mackinac promises to be an exhilarating event for participants and spectators alike.