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Published on July 25th, 2022 | by Editor

PHOTOS: Chicago to Mackinac Race 2022

Published on July 25th, 2022 by Editor -->

With staggered starts on July 22 and 23, the 2022 Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac began in front of Chicago’s skyline and finished 289 nm north on Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, at Michigan’s iconic Mackinac Island. Photos by Stephen Cloutier .

Tags: Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac , Stephen Cloutier

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Race History

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Chicago Yacht Club's most famous event is the Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac, which is the longest annual freshwater sailing race in the world.

Starting in 1898 with a mere five boats, The Mac has evolved into a world-class sporting event. After the first race in 1898, the Race to Mackinac was not held for five years until the second race in 1904. By 1906, the race had developed a healthy following and, in that year, the original Mackinac trophy was purchased. The race has seen occasional sustained violent weather in the blows of 1911, 1937 and 1970. After gale force winds took down most of the fleet in the Mac of 1911, the finish in the 1912 and 1913 races was changed to Harbor Springs on Little Traverse Bay instead of Mackinac Island. Race organizers felt the shorter distance was safer. From 1914 until 1916 the Mac was back to its full distance until WWI. From 1917-1920 there were no Mac races due to the strains of the War, which took away yachtsmen and put many boats out of commission. Since 1921, the Race to Mackinac has run consecutively every year, remains the longest annual freshwater distance race, and is recognized as one of the most prestigious sailing races in the world.

Today, sailors from Maine to California make this race an invariable part of their summer. Moreover, each year the Mac hosts sailors from as far off as Hong Kong, New Zealand and Australia. Although the Mac remains primarily an amateur event, this race has a proven track record of attracting some of the finest sailing talent in the sport. The monohull record of 23 hours, 30 minutes, and 34 seconds set by Roy Disney’s Pyewacket in 2002, and Steve Fossett on Stars and Stripes set the multihull record of 18 hours, 50 minutes, and 32 seconds in 1998. Both records still stand today. The unpredictable weather and fickle winds on Lake Michigan make the Race to Mackinac a supreme test, which many competitors feel rivals any ocean race. As one veteran sailor put it, "It’s fun, but it’s serious fun."

2008 marked the 110th anniversary of the first race, and the 100th time sailors raced 333 miles from Chicago to Mackinac Island. Although there have been changes to the race over the years, the basic elements of this venerable contest have remained unchanged for over 100 years. Stripped down to its essence, The Mac, like all sailboat racing, is still primarily a test of strength, endurance, strategy and willpower. And let’s not forget the dearest friend (and most menacing foe) of all sailors-- the wind. 

The First Mac 

Although the races began in 1896, the race outcomes were not conclusive. The first race to Michigan City was disputed when Vanenna claimed the race and Siren protested because she had old sails that were inadequate for the race. To this day, the second race to Milwaukee is still in dispute, for the fog caused both sloops to sail off course and thus started the question, "did the race ever finish?"

A couple of years passed until the 1898 announcement for a series of three races sponsored by the Chicago Yacht Club. Owners George Peate of Siren and W.R. Crawford of Vanenna set out to make the record straight. They agreed to a three day regatta on June 4th, 11th and 18th. Both owners engaged in much boosting and betting, and they were prepared to spend whatever it took to be ready.

Behind this backdrop was the hangover from the loss of the Fisher Cup of 1883 between Chicago's Cora and the Canada's Atlanta. This loss began a declining effect on memberships to the Chicago yachting community for close to 15 years. By 1897, there were only six members and two yachts representing the Chicago Yacht Club. A strong drive for membership in 1898 increased this number rapidly to sixty members and sixteen yachts, thus laying the groundwork for creating new excitement and an era of racing at the Chicago Yacht Club.

After three races in June of 1898, Vanenna remained undefeated and the discussion emerged to have a very unique and challenging race. In 1897, the New York Yacht Club sponsored a long distance race attracting vessels of larger sizes. The Chicago Yacht Club saw an opportunity to create its own attraction for larger vessels and renew the sport of sailing for the Chicago sailing community. Mackinac Island was a destination that was favored by many sailors by taking a multi-port route up Lake Michigan. Many Chicago Yacht Club members throughout history had houses or stayed on the island for vacations. These members conceived of a race that would challenge every sailor to the weather, winds, storms, and seas, as well as the big question: What course do you take on a 333 mile race?

And so began the first Mac Race with two sloops, Siren and Vanenna and three schooners, Hawthorne, Toxteth and Nomad. The excitement was immediate and the wagers and posturing began. Once again, Siren and Vanenna would dance with each other on the Great Lakes.

After 52 hours 17 minutes and 50 seconds - Vanenna claimed her place in history as the first winner of the Race to Mackinac Island. Siren placed second, 37 minutes and 20 seconds behind her nemesis, but beat the schooner Hawthorne by 45 minutes. 

Chicago Yacht Club invites you to

The 32nd Annual Verve Cup Regatta

One of the largest course-racing regattas in North America, the Verve Cup is an annual world-class sailing event attracting many national and international competitors. Both the Offshore Regatta and, later, the Inshore Regatta host well over 100 yachts to our beautiful Chicago lakefront and skyline.

Annually, the Chicago Yacht Club hosts the Verve Cup Regatta in August. This event typically features an Offshore Regatta with a separate one-day Distance Race at the beginning of August and an Inshore Regatta with a separate Radio Controlled sailboat series later in the month.

Verve Cup Offshore Regatta:

For the Offshore Regatta, participating yachts range in size from 25 to 80 feet, and carry crews from four to 20 racers. During the regatta, we, the Chicago Yacht Club, welcome over 2,000 racers, family members, and friends to our award-winning lakefront Monroe Station clubhouse. Each participant is treated to top-notch racing, scenic views, and outstanding organization. The spectacular daily racing is all followed up by exceptional food (indoor dining or al fresco), entertainment, and camaraderie. Competitors participate in daily multiple windward-leeward or triangle races. Boats sail either in a rating handicap section, so boats of different sizes and characters may compete against each other, or in a One-Design section. Typically, there are 18 racing sections dispersed among three racing circles. Brag flags and prizes are awarded to the top finishers in each section and one offshore boat, the winner in what is determined by formula to be the most competitive section, “The Elite Fleet,” is awarded the perpetual Verve Cup Trophy. The Verve Cup Trophy dates back to 1893 and is the Chicago Yacht Club’s oldest trophy. Likewise, for the one-day Saturday Distance race, brag flags and prizes are awarded to the top finishers in each of the sections. CYC's 8 Mile Trophy will be awarded as an overall prize to the winner of the racing section with the tightest competition during Saturday’s Tour of Chicago Distance Race. Merchandise, clothing, equipment, and souvenirs are available for sale to all the racers, their families, and friends. Race sponsors set up kiosks and displays during the race week for everyone to enjoy. Food, beverage, and music are provided during each evening’s festivities. The Verve Swerve Party is held on the Saturday of this fantastic racing weekend where music, free pours, and a specialty regatta menu fill the race village.

Verve Cup Inshore Regatta:

The Verve Cup Inshore Regatta is a spectacular sailing event for smaller trailer-able One-Design racing boats. Hosted each August by the Chicago Yacht Club at its scenic and conveniently located Belmont Station, the Verve Cup Inshore is the most popular inshore regatta in Chicagoland. Identical boats in One-Design Fleets compete for two days (Saturday and Sunday) to determine which boat has the best skipper, crew, and preparation. Fleets only need four boats to register to participate, so mobilize your class and sign up for some great racing at CYC's Belmont Station held each August! Etchells, Vipers, Star, Sonars, Tom 28s, Shields, Colgate 26, Luders 16, Rhodes 19, Solings, J/70s, and J/24s were all part of the competition in past years.

Each year the Verve Cup Inshore seems to get bigger and better, and the Chicago Yacht Club is working feverishly to assure that this year’s Verve Cup Inshore again will have the best One-Design sailing around. Our venue features optimal late summer breezes, competitive racing, and the best race committee on the water. The Verve Cup Inshore delivers outstanding racing with parties held after each day's racing. Big-name sponsors providing premium swag and generous free pours turn the evening party into a real blast. Get on board for the Verve Cup Inshore, arguably the best One-Design Sailing event in the Midwest!  

Offshore Verve Cup

Friday - Sunday August 9 - 11, 2024

Inshore Verve Cup

Friday - Sunday August 23 - 25, 2024

As part of the Inshore Verve, there will be a DF65 regatta.

The Chicago Yacht Club

Founded in 1875, located on beautiful Lake Michigan

The Chicago Yacht Club hosts over 125 races per year.

The Chicago Yacht Club Race Committee consists of over 100 dedicated volunteers, both CYC members and non-members. The Club is proud to have over 25 U.S. Sailing certified race officers in its ranks, and most other volunteers have participated in race management seminars and training programs.

The Chicago Yacht Club Race Committee facilitates a fair, quality, and competitive racing program. Race Committee volunteers love being on the water and are interested in learning more about race management.

The Chicago Yacht Club hosts over 125 races during our season, including the Race to Mackinac, Sailing World’s Chicago NOOD Regatta, the Chicago Yacht Club’s Verve Cup Regattas, and the Chicago Regatta. Other events include the NACC for Disabled Sailors, One-Design Seasonal Championship Racing (Nationals or otherwise), the Commodore’s Cup, Sheldon Clark, Wednesday Night Racing at both Monroe and Belmont Stations, and "Frostbiting" in the spring and fall.

We are always looking for new and enthusiastic volunteers to join Race Committee . If you are interested in getting involved, contact our Regatta Manager, Patrick Burks at  (312) 861-7777 or Email him at  [email protected] .

The Verve Cup Regatta

Official Sponsors

The Chicago Yacht Club recognizes that the strength of a regatta can be determined by the quality of the partnerships developed with the event sponsors. 

We would like to take this opportunity to thank our sponsors who have helped make The Verve Cup Regatta a success year after year. Thank you for your kindness, support and generosity.

For over 30 years, Mount Gay has been a sponsor of competitive sailing, playing host to over 150 regattas around the globe each year. Today, Mount Gay is a highly-regarded figure in the sailing world.

We thank Mount Gay for their support of The Verve Cup Regatta.

To learn more and stay up to date with Mount Gay Rum’s regatta events, please visit their  Sailing Spoken Here  Facebook page.

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Chicago Yacht Club – Race to Mackinac – Photos

With 240 entrants, the Chicago Yacht Club’s Race to Mackinac presented by Wintrust (CYCRTM) promises once again to be a spectacle worth taking in, as it returns to Lake Michigan and Lake Huron this week. Cruising and Performance Racing Divisions start the race at Chicago’s Navy Pier on Friday (July 16) and Saturday (July 17), respectively, with organizers suggesting the window of 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturday as the best public viewing opportunity. In 10-minute intervals, starting at 11 a.m. and ending around 2:40 p.m., seventeen “sections” for ORC, One-Design, Multihull and Doublehanded boats will start their 289 nautical mile journey to Mackinac Island – an annual trek that, over more than 11 decades, has become the stuff of legend in sailboat racing.

The Chicago Yacht Club-Race To Mackinac race division gets under way this Saturday. The lead boats will start arriving on Mackinac Island as early as late Sunday. By Tuesday the marina will be filled with sailboats and successful racers will be celebrating on the island. #TBT: Here are some of our favorite photos from previous versions of the Race To Mackinac. – Chicago Yacht Club Race To Mackinac – July 15 – 19, 2021 >>>

More Chicago Yacht Club Race To Mackinac Photos on Facebook >>>

Chicago Yacht Club Race To Mackinac – 2017 >>>

Chicago Yacht Club Race To Mackinac – Photos via Instagram

Here are the latest photos of Chicago Yacht Club Race To Mackinac via instagram . If you have an instagram photo to share of Chicago Yacht Club Race To Mackinac, tag it with #cycrtm and your photos will appear in the photo stream below.

Day 25: Watch the boats cross the finish line in the Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac! Congratulations to Whitehawk! The first boat to cross the finish line! ⛵️🍾🥂☀️ racetomackinac chicagoyachtclub #94GrandSummerDays

Day 25: Watch the boats cross the finish line in the Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac! Congratulations to Whitehawk! The first boat to cross the finish line! ⛵️🍾🥂☀️ racetomackinac chicagoyachtclub #94GrandSummerDays ...

What a ride it was! racetomackinac

What a ride it was! racetomackinac ...

More from the Race to the Mac! Always fun to watch these boats take off! Love capturing the reflection in the hull of the skyline! * * * * #gramoftheday #jjcommunity #raw_community boatus jeanneauamerica choosechicago chicago chicagoharbors #ussailing #skyline #likechicago #igers_chicago #greatlakessailing #outdoorsweek_hp #jj_forum_3752 #photoquestweekly #sharesix_allabouttoday #cycrtm #americaoffshorechallenge #raw_community #raw_reflection #yourshotphotographer #jj_forum_3759 #nautical_images #gotd_3705

More from the Race to the Mac! Always fun to watch these boats take off! Love capturing the reflection in the hull of the skyline! * * * * #gramoftheday #jjcommunity #raw_community boatus jeanneauamerica choosechicago chicago chicagoharbors #ussailing #skyline #likechicago #igers_chicago #greatlakessailing #outdoorsweek_hp #jj_forum_3752 #photoquestweekly #sharesix_allabouttoday #cycrtm #americaoffshorechallenge #raw_community #raw_reflection #yourshotphotographer #jj_forum_3759 #nautical_images #gotd_3705 ...

More from the Race to the Mac! Always fun to watch these boats take off! * * * * #gramoftheday #jjcommunity #raw_community boatus jeanneauamerica choosechicago chicago chicagoharbors #ussailing #skyline #likechicago #igers_chicago #greatlakessailing #outdoorsweek_hp #jj_forum_3752 #photoquestweekly #sharesix_allabouttoday #cycrtm #americaoffshorechallenge #jj_forum_3759 #nautical_images #gotd_3362 #gotd_3705

More from the Race to the Mac! Always fun to watch these boats take off! * * * * #gramoftheday #jjcommunity #raw_community boatus jeanneauamerica choosechicago chicago chicagoharbors #ussailing #skyline #likechicago #igers_chicago #greatlakessailing #outdoorsweek_hp #jj_forum_3752 #photoquestweekly #sharesix_allabouttoday #cycrtm #americaoffshorechallenge #jj_forum_3759 #nautical_images #gotd_3362 #gotd_3705 ...

The before... Mackinac Island's harbor is patiently awaiting the arrival of the boats! ⛵️ #CYCRTM #MakeItMackinac

The before... Mackinac Island's harbor is patiently awaiting the arrival of the boats! ⛵️ #CYCRTM #MakeItMackinac ...

Congratulations to the crews who have crossed the finish line of the 112th Chicago Yacht Club racetomackinac. Welcome to #PureMichigan! 📷: greendrinks #CYCRTM #LakeMichigan #LakeHuron #sailing #summer #MyMackinac #OnePureMichigan

Congratulations to the crews who have crossed the finish line of the 112th Chicago Yacht Club racetomackinac. Welcome to #PureMichigan! 📷: greendrinks #CYCRTM #LakeMichigan #LakeHuron #sailing #summer #MyMackinac #OnePureMichigan ...

And they're off! Pretty cool to watch the Race to Mackinac kick-off from #AshoreThing at the east end of Navy Pier. The bonus was getting on top of the East End Ballroom to shoot it // #cycrtm #Chitecture

And they're off! Pretty cool to watch the Race to Mackinac kick-off from #AshoreThing at the east end of Navy Pier. The bonus was getting on top of the East End Ballroom to shoot it // #cycrtm #Chitecture ...

#Repost grandhotelmichigan (get_repost) ・・・ Congratulations Racers! 🍾⛵️🥂🎉 #grandhotelmichigan #mackinacisland #cycrtm #yachtraces #130grandanniversary #americassummerplace #chicagoyachtclub #makeitmackinac #tattinger #uptravel

#Repost grandhotelmichigan (get_repost) ・・・ Congratulations Racers! 🍾⛵️🥂🎉 #grandhotelmichigan #mackinacisland #cycrtm #yachtraces #130grandanniversary #americassummerplace #chicagoyachtclub #makeitmackinac #tattinger #uptravel ...

The Longbow makes it’s way to the finish line in the 114th Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac! 🌊⛵️🌊

The Longbow makes it’s way to the finish line in the 114th Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac! 🌊⛵️🌊 ...

23 Favorite Moments from 2023 (not ranked) 4. The Race to Mackinac started with beautiful sunny skies, but near the end of the starts a storm broke out like no other. The rain was big, cold and fierce. The rain was so thick you swear it was snowing. Waterproof gear got tested.

23 Favorite Moments from 2023 (not ranked) 4. The Race to Mackinac started with beautiful sunny skies, but near the end of the starts a storm broke out like no other. The rain was big, cold and fierce. The rain was so thick you swear it was snowing. Waterproof gear got tested. ...

Great night photographing the yachts crossing the finish line! Welcome to Mackinac sailors! ⛵️ #cycrtm

Great night photographing the yachts crossing the finish line! Welcome to Mackinac sailors! ⛵️ #cycrtm ...

2023 Race to Mackinac #cycrtm

2023 Race to Mackinac #cycrtm ...

Chicago Yacht Club – Race to Mackinac – 2015

The Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac is the longest, annual freshwater sailing race in the world. It takes place on Lake Michigan, starting in the waters off Chicago and finishing at Mackinac Island.

The 2015 Mac, as it is affectionately known, kicks off Saturday, July 11, 2015 with 3,000 sailors competing in this world-class sporting event.

Visit Chicago Yacht Club – Race to Mackinac Website >>>>

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On the Water Action Photography

2019 Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac

July 13-16, 2019 – Chicago, Illinois and Mackinac Island, Michigan Photography by Allen and Daniela Clark

We’ve got shots of over 200 boats from the start, near Manitou, and the finish area. The photos are sorted by boat name. View the 2019 Chicago-Mackinac photos.

VIEW THE PHOTOS

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ON THE WATER ACTION PHOTOGRAPHY [email protected] Photos by Allen and Daniela Clark Photos are available at PhotoBoat.com @allen.photoboat.clark

2019 Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac this morning. View the rest of our photos at PhotoBoat.com #chicagotomackinac #chicagoyachtclub #sailing #mackinacbridge #mackinacisland #yachtphotography #lakemichigan #chicago @racetomackinac #racetomackinac @chicagoyachtclub #CYCRTM #photoboat #chicagoyachtclub ...

2019 Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac View the rest of our photos at PhotoBoat.com #chicagotomackinac #chicagoyachtclub #sailing #mackinacbridge #mackinacisland #yachtphotography #lakemichigan #chicago @racetomackinac #racetomackinac @chicagoyachtclub #CYCRTM #photoboat #chicagoyachtclub ...

Evolution under the bridge minutes ago during the 2019 Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac View the rest of our photos at PhotoBoat.com #chicagotomackinac #chicagoyachtclub #sailing #mackinacbridge #mackinacisland #yachtphotography #lakemichigan #chicago @racetomackinac #racetomackinac @chicagoyachtclub #CYCRTM #photoboat #chicagoyachtclubracetomackinac ...

View Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac information and results .

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History | In the early 20th century, the Chicago River…

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History | In the early 20th century, the Chicago River Swim was an annual event that drew thousands of spectators

On Sept. 22, some 500 participants are expected to jump in downtown waters for the Chicago River Swim, 116 years after a similar event prompted the Tribune headline: “Germs Of Chicago River Mere Bagatelle To Girl.”

“Regardless of the fact that the Chicago River is said to contain the most dangerous of germs, seventy-one swimmers of more or less fame in western aquatic circles will line up at one o’clock today on the life-saving pier at the entrance to the harbor for the first annual marathon swim of the Illinois Athletic club,” the accompanying story reported on July 18, 1908.

The scheduled competitors included “Miss Anna Harris, who learned to swim in the Milwaukee River.” Her gumption in choosing to compete against 69 men while also braving the questionable quality of the river water was apparently enough to merit a headline for a preview on the event.

Chicago was a latecomer to swimming marathons. Enthusiasts of such endeavors consider Lord George Gordon Byron, better known as Lord Byron their patron saint. In May 1810, the celebrated British poet swam the Hellespont, four miles of water separating Europe from Asia.

He found his muse in the Greek myth of two lovers: Leander who lived on the European side of the strait, and Hero, on the Asian side. In “Written after Swimming from Sestos to Abydos,” Lord Byron observed:

For me, degenerate modern wretch,

Though in the genial month of May,

My dripping limbs I faintly stretch,

And think I’ve done a feat today .

Competitive swimming of shorter lengths got a boost in 1896, when the ancient Olympics were revived in Athens and races were held in the nearby Bay of Zea.

The Chicago River was for much of the city’s history an unlikely sports venue. It was for many years considered an open-air sewer. Residents dumped garbage and human and animal waste into it, making the river a Petri dish for malaria germs. Flowing into Lake Michigan, the river contaminated the city’s drinking water.

A solution was obvious — send the water away from the lake — but not easily accomplished. In 1900, the Chicago River was connected to a canal that fed a complex of rivers flowing into the Mississippi River. Locks reversed the river, except on occasions when climatic events decided otherwise.

In March of 1908, a torrential rain overpowered the system. The river flowed back toward the lake, endangering the city’s water supply and the swimming races. But by carefully maneuvering the locks, engineers redirected the waters and enabled the race to go on.

Nonetheless, the Tribune sounded a skeptical note.

“The Chicago River, now said to be more or less deodorized, will have a chance to speak for itself shortly,” the paper wrote on June 26 in a preview of a race in which “forty of fifty young athletes will race each other in a ‘marathon’ swim from the Rush Street bridge to Twelfth Street.”

“That is, providing the chameleon colored waters do not produce the scent they once did.”

On a more optimistic note, it was noted that “Up at Goose Island boys have always taken a daily plunge in summer, and although there have been numerous records of drownings there have been none of suffocation or asphyxiation.”

The previous year, the Illinois Athletic Club, a tony Michigan Avenue private club, sponsored a 10-mile swim in Lake Michigan. It did not go well. None of the 20 or so swimmers who “attempted to paddle their way from the Columbia Yacht Club to the South Shore Country Club” made it more than half way.

“Three of the men who went farthest were delirious when they were taken from the water,” according to the Tribune’s story.

In 1908, the race was not nearly as lengthy.

”Two miles is a short course,” said Charles Zeller, the race manager, “but we have made the swim short on account of the past notoriety which the river has had. I believe the water is clean enough for any one to swim in.“

Hoping to put that to rest, the race sponsors staged a photo shoot in July, a week before the race. The caption noted: “Sixteen sturdy swimmers took a sunset dip into the Chicago River at the life saving station just outside the harbor and, dodging between big steamers and tugs, landed at the Clark Street bridge.”

The swimmers gave a thumbs-up to the waters of the Chicago River, which in “former years have been asserted to contain the deadliest of germs.”

The July 1908 race began at the life-saving station at the harbor’s edge, passed into the river and ended near the Jackson Boulevard bridge. S.C. Jensen of the Illinois Athletic Club won, having overcome a teammate, H.J. Handy.

“When Handy reached Rush Street he was about 300 yards ahead of Jensen and gaining steadily, but the cool water and the terrific pace began to tell on him, and when a few minutes later he was seized with sever chills he was saved only by quick work on the part of Frank Sullivan, swimming director of the Illinois Athletic Club, who was rowing a few feet ahead of him,” the Tribune reported.

The oldest competitor wasn’t so fortunate. Albert G. Freese, 55, keeper of a saloon at Milwaukee Avenue and Huron Street was within striking range of the leaders when, having completed four-fifths of the two mile race, he sank. Spectators screamed in horror.

“Five men flung themselves into the river and swam to his aid, but he did not rise. The strong current whirled his body away, making diving and dragging useless,” the Tribune reported.

“Although the drowning was practically unavoidable it probably would finish the giving of marathon races by the Illinois Athletic Club,” director Zeller said.

But with measures taken to prevent another drowning, the race was held the following year. “Each competitor will be compelled to have a boat accompany him on the journey which will be manned by expert swimmers,” the Tribune reported.

In the 1911 race, a temporarily missing swimmer prompted fears of another unfortunate mishap.

“One wild rumor was circulated as soon as the race was finished that Charles R. Carlson, an Englishman, had drowned during the progress of the race,” The Tribune observed.

“When seen at the dressing tent near the Columbia Yacht Club he said the report was ‘grossly exaggerated.’ He said that near the Adams Street bridge he felt a cramp in his legs and for several moments was unconscious. Friends in a rowboat, noting his condition, went to his rescue and pulled him out of the water.”

By then, the river races were firmly anchored by a silver trophy donated by Mayor William Thompson. “Big Bill” was known for handing out goodies so Chicagoans would overlook the hand with which he was looting the municipal till.

The river race was lengthened: Competitors went into the water at the Municipal Pier, as Navy Pier was then known. They swam through Lake Michigan, entered the river through the lock, and finished three miles from where they started.

Over the following years, some races were particularly noteworthy. The 1913 race was a tad zany.

It corresponded with a water carnival in honor of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, who won a critical battle in the War of 1812.

“It is the intention of the committee to have the swimmers in the water at the time revenue cutters escort Perry’s flagship, the Niagara, into the harbor,” the Tribune reported of sixth race. “The national salutes which the old wind jammer will receive is expected to stir the swimmers to greater efforts.”

In 1927 the winner of the race was a future matinee idol: “By use of his powerful crawl stroke, Johnny Weissmuller of the Illinois A.C., generally consider the greatest all-around swimmer in the world, yesterday won the nineteenth annual river swim of the tri-color club.”

Weissmuller went on to fame as Hollywood’s Tarzan.

The Chicago River Swim’s history beyond the 1920s is murky. After being held annually until about 1930, the Tribune reported that the race was renewed, for at least one year, in 1937. Even with the city’s waste flowing the other way, the waterway came to be seen as unsafe, or at least unsavory for swimming for much of the latter part of the 20th century and beyond.

Promoters of the revived event can only hope Sept. 22 brings good weather and clean water, and then maybe the Tribune will be reporting on a scene like that described during the 1909 race:

“How many thousands of persons viewed the race may never be known. But from the mouth of the river to Jackson Street, a distance of two miles, the banks were packed with spectators, all shouting and cheering for the swimmers. The windows of all the buildings along the river were crowded and hundreds of persons witnessed the race from the roofs.”

Have an idea for Vintage Chicago Tribune? Share it with Ron Grossman and Marianne Mather at [email protected] and [email protected].

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Chicago outdoors: Osprey and shark, toad tadpoles at Montrose, cicada art

An osprey and shark tale, toad tadpoles at montrose and a cicada art contest are among the notes from around chicago outdoors and beyond..

An osprey with a shark caught near St. Augustine, Florida.

Paul Sevcik

Notes come from around Chicago outdoors and beyond.

WILD OF THE WEEK

Paul and Linda Sevcik of Crest Hill, who enjoy wildlife photography, vacationed in St. Augustine, Florida, in February. “I took [photos] of an osprey which was close to the shoreline not far from the pier you visited,” Paul emailed. “I am not sure what kind of shark this is, but it sure surprised us and put a smile on our faces.” Last Saturday, I wrote about the St. Johns County Ocean & Fishing Pier in St. Augustine . It would take somebody smarter than me to decipher which shark the osprey has.

WOTW, the celebration of wild stories and photos around Chicago outdoors, runs most weeks in the special two-page outdoors section in the Sun-Times Sports Saturday. To make submissions, email [email protected] or contact me on Facebook ( Dale Bowman ), Twitter ( @BowmanOutside ), Instagram ( @BowmanOutside ). or Bluesky (@Bowmanoutside).

DALE’S MAILBAG

“A few weeks after American toads mated alongside Montrose Pier, thousands of their tiny tadpoles have hatched.” Robert Loerzel sent a video on X.

A: Fascinating the things that Loerzel finds in his wanderings around Chicago outdoors.

The video is at below:

A few weeks after American toads mated alongside Montrose Pier, thousands of their tiny tadpoles have hatched. 🐸 pic.twitter.com/Qk7U2uBbet — Robert Loerzel (@robertloerzel) May 16, 2024

“Artists can be as serious or as silly as they want with this challenge. Realistic, creative, wacky, whimsical, or kitsch – we’re here for it all. We think the cicadas would want it that way.”

Natalie Phelps Finnie , Illinois Department of Natural Resources director, channeling cicadas, on announcing the Cicada Art Contest at Conservation World during the 2024 Illinois State Fair, Aug. 8-18. Register at dnr.illinois.gov/cicada-art-contest.html .

Friday, May 31-Saturday, June 1: Chicago Yacht Club’s In-Water Boat & Tech Show, Monroe Station, register and see details at chicagoyachtclub.org/in-water-boat-and-tech-show

Next Saturday, June 1, to June 2: Celebration of Willow Slough Fish & Wildlife Area’s 75th anniversary, guided hikes, kayak tours, and an evening campfire, see in.gov/dnr/fish-and-wildlife/properties/willow-slough-fwa/

June 16: Deadline to apply to exhibit cicada art at Conservation World during the 2024 Illinois State Fair, Aug. 8-18, junior exhibit (17 and younger) and adult (18 and older), register at dnr.illinois.gov/cicada-art-contest.html

ILLINOIS PERMITS

Next Saturday, June 1, to June 30: First lottery, site-specific dove permits

Through June 30: Second lottery, deer firearm & muzzleloader

Through July 1: First lottery, fall shotgun turkey season

HUNTER SAFETY

June 29-30: Wilmington, https://islandparkdistrict.activityreg.com/selectactivity_t2.wcs

June 29-30: Diamond, (815) 907-7345; [email protected]

Full state listing at dnr2.illinois.gov/SafetyEd/SafetyEdClassByCounty

HALL OF FAME

July 15: Deadline, nominations for 2024 class of Illinois Outdoor Hall of Fame, details at ilconservation.org/Who-We-Are/Outdoor-Hall-of-Fame

Chicago Yacht Club offers a wide variety off-the-water amenities including fine dining and full-service catering at both clubhouses - Monroe Station and Belmont Station.

Monroe dining.

Located on the city's shoreline with a 180 degree view of Lake Michigan, the Main Dining Room at Monroe Station offers upscale dining and a menu featuring fresh, local ingredients put together by Monroe Executive Chef Larry Asher. The Mackinac Bar is always a popular destination for a quick lunch, casual dinner or to hang out with friends and watch a game. The patio opens up in the summer for unsurpassed outdoor dining and views of the Navy Pier firework displays. Monroe Station's Fireside Lounge is an intimate area to meet friends by the fireplace and sip on a beverage, surrounded by many of our regatta trophies, including the historic Mackinac trophies.

Belmont Dining

Belmont Station is a family-friendly venue for casual lunches and dinners that typically serve more informal fare than Monroe Station. Belmont serves as a great location for hosting members' private events. In addition to a la carte dining, Belmont offers summer dinner specials and pasta bar buffets that members love.

The Chicago Yacht Club hosts more than 200 exclusive events on and off the water each year, offering members many ways to get involved and share their passion for the water.

Learn more about our events.

• Club Calendar
• Private Events
• In-Water Boat & Tech Show

Las Vegas Yacht Club

Hours updated 2 weeks ago

Location & Hours

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3300 Las Vegas Blvd S

reasure Island Hotel

Las Vegas, NV 89109

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The Las Vegas Yacht Club opened last November in the space formerly occupied by the Seafood Shack and Mojito Bar at the TI Hotel and Casino. It appears they upgraded the menu, but not much else. The restaurant's décor is the same as the Seafood Shack's. Craig Taylor is the Executive Chef at the TI. Let's be upfront, the Yacht Club isn't a high-end seafood restaurant like Eddie V's, Ocean Prime or Oceanaire. But it does serve delicious comfort food in a casual setting that would appeal to a local family or out-of-towners. The $65 average tab per person, might make sense on the Vegas Strip, but seems a tad high for families. Service is really important to me. It's more than taking our order and checking in. For example, does the server build a relationship with our guests, do they provide outstanding menu knowledge and recommendations. Unfortunately, our Yacht Club server didn't excel in those areas. We had some hits and some misses with our dinner: - The broth for the Saffron Mussels had an odd taste, almost like a low-quality white wine was used - Caesar Salad was awesome, a large portion of romaine that can be shared easily by two or three diners -Sea Scallops with Angel Hair was another large portion, super rich and filling - Fish & Chips is another classic on the Yacht Club menu, with plenty of beer battered cod for the largest appetite - The pan-fried Salmon was dry and bland - Street Carrots is a creative name for a side, but it failed to attract much interest from our group If I make it back, I'd order one of two signatures: Seven Seas (with lobster meat, clams, shrimp, mussels and scallops in a lobster tomato broth) or the Seafood Risotto (clams, shrimp, mussels and scallops).

See all photos from Bob S. for Las Vegas Yacht Club

The food is insanely good! Prices are cheaper than almost any seafood restaurant on the strip with this quality. Bartenders are amazing. There's gaming. I won on the machine and my stomach won too. Lobster bisque is a must! Salmon topped with king crab I'll be back!

We had a reservation on Open Table months prior to holiday. Got there and were given a table with a weird configuration. I went to the manager, I believe named Jordan or Julie, and was told that when you booked, you didn't request a particular table, like that's even a thing. She was rude and uncaring. Then we ordered and 3 of the 4 dishes had shrimp in them and each dish tasted funny from the shrimp. He took the shrimp out, waiter took it back to the kitchen. No comment followed and no manager came to apologize or offer an explanation. We continued our meals and ordered 2 deserts which AFTER were complimentary. Still no manager for an explanation. Worse place to eat in Vegas. Definitely not worth the high prices.

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