Who Won the Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac 2025? A Complete Guide to the Results and Highlights
The Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac, often affectionately called "The Mac," is more than just a sailing race — it’s a Great Lakes tradition steeped in over a century of maritime history, camaraderie, and competitive spirit. Every summer, sailors from around the world converge on Lake Michigan to test their skill, endurance, and teamwork on the 333-mile course from Chicago to Mackinac Island.
The 2025 edition of the Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac lived up to its reputation as one of the world’s most iconic freshwater sailing races. Below, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the 2025 race: who won, the full results, standout performances, what made this year unique, and why the race remains such a cherished event for sailors and spectators alike.
A Landmark Year: The 116th Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac
The 2025 race marked the 116th running of the Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac. Known for its challenging weather conditions, varying wind patterns, and breathtaking scenery, the race has captivated sailors since its inception in 1898.
This year’s race drew an impressive fleet of competitors, with over 300 boats and thousands of sailors and support crew taking part. Both seasoned professionals and amateur crews lined up at the start line off Chicago’s Navy Pier, setting sail for Mackinac Island — a course that is equal parts tactical and scenic.
Who Won the 2025 Race?
At the front of the fleet, claiming Line Honors — awarded to the first boat to cross the finish line — was Whitehawk, a magnificent 104-foot wooden ketch owned by Peter Thornton.
What We Know So Far: 2025 Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac Results
Whitehawk, helmed by Peter Thornton, crossed the finish line first, completing the race in 1 day, 20 hours, and 31 minutes. This achievement not only secured them Line Honors but also underscored the crew’s tactical prowess and resilience in navigating Lake Michigan’s notoriously fickle conditions.
Whitehawk’s final placement within the 41-boat Cruising Division remains pending, as results in this category depend on each boat’s handicap rating, which adjusts finishing times to ensure fair competition among varied designs.
Luck and Skill in the Weather Window
Starting on Friday, Whitehawk found a fortuitous weather window that allowed them to stay ahead of the fleet.
“On the radar we saw the rain moving toward us to the north and south of us, but we lucked out into a great weather window with clear skies and, more importantly, good breeze,” said Thornton.
Despite occasional lulls when the wind dipped to 3–4 knots, the crew managed to maintain steady speed, while many boats behind struggled through the Manitou Passage with far less favorable conditions.
A Veteran and a First-Timer
Thornton, who estimates he has sailed at least 40 Mackinac Races, summed up his advice to first-time competitors simply:
“Enjoy it. Every one of these is different and has its special moments. One of my grandsons was on board for his first race this year and couldn’t get over the incredible starry sky, and watching all the crew work that goes into making our boat go fast.”
Cynthia Lyn Follows
By 7 p.m. ET, only one other boat — Cynthia Lyn, also in the Cruising Division — had crossed the finish line behind Whitehawk.
Understanding the Categories: Line Honors vs. Overall Winner
It’s important to distinguish between Line Honors and Overall Winner:
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Line Honors is awarded to the first boat to finish the race, regardless of handicap.
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Overall Winner is determined using a handicap system (ORC or PHRF), which levels the playing field between boats of different sizes and designs.
While Whitehawk was the fastest boat on the water and claimed Line Honors, the Overall Winner in corrected time was (TBD at this time).
2025 Race Highlights
Challenging Conditions
This year’s race presented sailors with a classic mix of conditions. The fleet experienced brisk winds out of the south at the start, allowing for fast progress up the lake. Overnight, winds lightened considerably, forcing crews to rely on tactical acumen and patience to maintain momentum. Many boats reported beautiful moonlit skies and smooth sailing in the early stages.
Notable Performances
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Whitehawk – First to finish and Line Honors.
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[TBD Overall Winner] – Top performer on corrected time.
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[TBD notable class winners] – Several boats delivered strong showings in their respective classes, showcasing the depth of talent in the fleet.
Current Leaderboard as of July 21st, 10:00 AM CDT
While Whitehawk claimed Line Honors, the corrected-time results so far show strong performances from several boats. Here are the provisional leaders:
| Position | Boat Name | Elapsed Time | Corrected Elapsed Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Heartbreaker | 1d 13h 3m 4s | 1d 13h 3m 4s |
| 2 | Windquest | 1d 13h 56m 2s | 1d 13h 56m 2s |
| 3 | Sagamore | 1d 13h 56m 59s | 1d 13h 56m 59s |
| 4 | Natalie J | 1d 14h 24m 12s | 1d 14h 24m 12s |
| 5 | Mockingbird | 1d 16h 12m 12s | 1d 16h 12m 12s |
| 6 | Katana | 1d 16h 21m 44s | 1d 16h 21m 44s |
| 7 | Wizard | 1d 16h 26m 26s | 1d 16h 26m 26s |
| 8 | Prospector | 1d 17h 42m 48s | 1d 17h 42m 48s |
These results remain provisional and will be confirmed by race officials once all handicap calculations are finalized.
Why the Race to Mackinac Matters
A Historic Tradition
Few sailing races can match the history and prestige of the Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac. Since 1898, sailors have tackled Lake Michigan’s unpredictable waters in a test of skill, endurance, and seamanship. For many, simply completing the race is a badge of honor.
A Spectacle for Spectators
For those not on the water, the race remains a popular event to watch from shore. The sight of hundreds of sails dotting Lake Michigan against the backdrop of Chicago’s skyline is unforgettable. Mackinac Island also comes alive with festivities as the fleet arrives, welcoming tired but jubilant crews.
A Challenge for Sailors
The race’s 333 miles demand both physical stamina and mental focus. Crews must navigate shifts in wind, unpredictable weather patterns, and the strategic decisions of when to hug the shoreline or venture into open water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who won the 2025 Chicago Mackinac Race?
The yacht Whitehawk won Line Honors in the 2025 race, crossing the finish line first.
What is Line Honors?
Line Honors is awarded to the first boat to finish the race without considering handicaps.
Who is leading on corrected time?
As of July 21st, 10:00 AM CDT, Heartbreaker holds the top position on corrected time.
Who was the Overall Winner of the 2025 race?
The Overall Winner on corrected time was [TBD].
How long is the Chicago to Mackinac race?
The course spans approximately 333 statute miles from Chicago to Mackinac Island.
How many boats competed in 2025?
Over 300 boats participated in the 2025 race.
What is the record time for the race?
The record time, set in 2002 by Pyewacket, is just under 19 hours. This year’s winner, Whitehawk, did not break the record.
The Inn at Stonecliffe: The Perfect Place to Celebrate
If you’re planning to watch or celebrate the Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac, there’s no better place to stay than The Inn at Stonecliffe, Mackinac Island’s most serene and private retreat.
Why Choose The Inn at Stonecliffe?
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Exclusive Setting – Tucked away from the hustle of downtown, offering peace and privacy.
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Breathtaking Views – Many rooms feature vistas of the Straits of Mackinac and the Mackinac Bridge.
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Luxury Accommodations – Newly renovated suites, cottages, and mansion rooms with premium amenities.
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On-Site Experiences – Pools, wellness center, lawn games, bike rentals, live music, and more.
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Humanitarian Mission – All profits support charitable causes, making your stay meaningful.
Special Race Weekend Packages
For sailing enthusiasts and race spectators, we offer tailored packages including:
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Group accommodations for sailing crews and supporters.
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Private dining experiences.
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Celebration events on property.
A Look Ahead: The 2026 Race
Planning for next year? The 2026 Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac promises to be just as thrilling. Start booking your stay at The Inn at Stonecliffe early to secure the best accommodations for race weekend.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac was another unforgettable chapter in the long history of this iconic race. Congratulations to Whitehawk for claiming Line Honors, and kudos to all the sailors who competed with skill and perseverance. Whether you’re a participant, supporter, or sailing fan, the Race to Mackinac continues to inspire awe and admiration.
If you’re planning to experience the magic of the race yourself, or simply looking for a peaceful and luxurious getaway on Mackinac Island, The Inn at Stonecliffe awaits — offering an unmatched blend of exclusivity, elegance, and purpose.
For complete race results and more information, visit the Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac official website.