Where to View the Historic 100th Running of "the Mac"

When adventurer Steve Fossett disappeared last year while flying over the Nevada desert (and was later declared legally dead), Chicago lost not only an amazing citizen with roots in this city, but also the record holder for our world-famous Race to Mackinac. Fossett nailed it in the Stars and Stripes in 1998 with a time of 18 hours, 50 minutes, and 32 seconds.

This year, as the race readies for its historic 100th running between Chicago and Michigan's Mackinac Island, more than 450 boats will compete for the honor of getting there first. And, while Fossett won't be around to participate, the boat he used will be. All eyes will be on the 60-foot multihull Stars and Stripes as Don Wilson tries to cross the finish line first and, in a way, extend Fossett's legacy.

Even if you're a landlubber, there's a lot to appreciate about this year's race, which is the longest, annual freshwater sailing race in the world. You can watch the parade of boats from Navy Pier as they depart on Saturday, July 19 or follow the competition at home via your computer. This will be the largest boat race in history to have every competitor outfitted with a GPS transponder.

Related Reading:
Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac Profile
Spectator Guide for the Race to Mackinac