In my last article I talked a little about the Chicago to Mackinac Island race. I am relatively new to sailing but it has really changed my life. The race to Mackinac gives me another big event to look forward to every year in July. This will be my third year doing the race and I can’t wait.
The actual race really is exhilarating and not much beats it, but once the race is over and the competition is done, that’s when the fun starts. Mackinac Island is located in Lake Huron, in Michigan. The island is off limits to any automobiles except for emergency vehicles, otherwise everything is horse and carriage or bike.
Most of the racers go out to the bars and meet everyone over some much deserved drinks. If you have heard anything about the party after the race, you have probably heard of the Pink Pony. The Pink Pony is a hotel and bar where everyone goes to have a great time, it is a must if you go to Mackinac Island.
Everyone only usually stays one or two day on the island because most people either do another race that starts one day after the Mac ends or they have to start heading back to Chicago area. The trip back is relaxing and a lot of fun, we stop at various ports to have a good time and sleep. We usually stop in a couple ports in Michigan and then we cross the giant lake and stay some places in Wisconsin.
The whole trip is a blast, and would recommend it to everyone that has the opportunity to sail such a large race. I hope to keep sailing this race for the rest of my life and become what they call a “goat”, someone who has done over 50 races in their lifetime. Hope this article makes you want to participate in the largest fresh water race in the world. See you up there!
