Change keeps that spirit alive

Organized by Bayview Yacht Club since 1925, the Bayview Mackinac Race considers it to be the oldest continuously run freshwater race in the world. Extending from southern Lake Huron to Mackinac Island, there will be a significant change for the 103rd edition.

In recent decades, the fleet has been split between either the Cove Island Course (259 nm) or Shore Course (204 nm). But in 2027, every boat in the fleet will be together on a new route from Port Huron to a virtual gate just south of Great Duck Island with the finish at Mackinac Island.

Starting on July 10, the new course’s direct distance is 225 nautical miles and brings the finish back closer to where the race’s earliest editions ended: in front of Mission Point Resort on the east end of Mackinac Island.

The change came from feedback after the 100th edition in 2024 when every competitor raced the original 204-nautical-mile course used in the first race in 1925.

“After the 100th race, we heard from skipper after skipper that having the whole fleet out there together was the highlight,” said Robert Eger, 2027 Bayview Mackinac Race Chair. “The Duck Island course keeps that spirit alive while giving our sailors a fresh set of nautical decisions.

“Everyone will be talking about the 108-foot lighthouse on the south end of the island that’s visible for miles. And if the wind blows at all from the north, we’ll be able to smell the evergreens on Manitoulin Island.”

The new finish line will be visible from Mission Point Resort, which is also the site of the awards party.

“We were delighted when the race party returned to Mission Point, and now, with the finish line returning as well, we couldn’t be more excited,” said Liz Ware, vice president of sales and marketing and co-owner, Mission Point Resort.

“I have wonderful memories of running to the Great Lawn to watch friends cross the finish line, long before our family purchased the resort. To see that tradition come full circle is incredibly special. Mission Point’s Adirondack chairs will be ready for the families and friends of the racers to watch the boats come in.”

Details: https://bycmack.com/

Source: https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2026/11/02/change-keeps-that-spirit-alive/