Racer Update: March 19, 2020

Posted Mar 19, 2020

Planning for the 112th Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac continues even under isolation.  Our organizing committee is monitoring the COVID-19 situation closely, and while we are still a ways away from the July 17th and 18th start dates, I want to ensure you that we will be in communication with you regarding any changes to our plans. As a committee, we’re busy looking at how we can keep the race safe, and yet provide an opportunity to escape from what has been going on with COVID-19. That said, we’re optimistic at this time that we’ll be able to provide a world-class event for all of our racers, fans and friends in July. 

So, while many of us are staying at home to weather out the coronavirus storm - so I’m going to take this opportunity to remind you that now is a great time to take care of administrative race items. 

Remember to: 

  • Check your application: April 1st is the deadline for early-bird entry fees, make sure you have met the minimum requirements so your boat doesn’t face a late entry fee. 
  • Apply for your 2020 ORR Certificate: This process can be done online, and more information can be found at US Sailing. Please help everyone out and apply for your 2020 certificate as soon as possible. 
  • Update your boat story: Boat owners and invited competitors, review your boat story in the registration area and make sure this information is up-to-date. How many Mac’s has your boat sailed? Any interesting stories we should know about? This information gets used to announce your team during the “Parade of Boats” at Navy Pier, and also gets shared with the media, so please ensure its up-to-date so we can help share your story. 
  • Safety: Review the CMSR’s, available on the Official Notice Board and double check expiration dates and registration for things like your boat’s EPIRB. 
  • Safety-At-Sea: If you are unable to attend a hands-on safety at sea, remember there are online options available that will satisfy the CMSR requirements.

Thank you all for your support of the Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac.  I know everyone is eager to get their boats out of the shed, but please take care of your health and the health of those around you.  We look forward to putting a lot of our negative news behind us with the start of the season, and the start of the Mac.  

 

Martin Sandoval 

Race Chairman