Chicago- Mackinac Race Weather Package

The forecast format details, provided below, depict a progressive focus on strategic sail planning within the developing wx pattern during the race. Each forecast will discuss the large-scale weather pattern tendency, then narrow the focus to the impact upon the race-route specifics of wind direction transitions and speed forecasts for the race duration. An emphasis on favored routing tactics, to take advantage of the forecast shifts in weather parameters, is a key discussion that will tie together all weather factors. A detailed strategy to emerge with each daily update, with a final update the morning of the race start. Forecasts will begin to send Wednesday, 15 July, for start Saturday 18 July. Subsequent updates to follow Thursday, Friday and early Saturday.

Strategic Forecast Includes:

  • A detailed discussion of the large-scale weather pattern along the race route for Lake Michigan, and its evolution through the duration of the expected race period.
  • Forecast wind directions and speeds provided at 3-6 hour intervals, dependent upon race length and wind/ sea tendency.
  • A strategic discussion focused on favored routing tactics and shifts in the wind/weather, to be mindful while in competition, that tie all forecast weather parameters together.
  • A series of hand-prepared forecast weather charts depict the weather pattern progression for the race duration.
  • Appointments for phone briefings (estimate 1-hour) will be scheduled for Thursday afternoon or Friday afternoon, 16-17 July, with the option for additional Saturday morning pre-race start briefing. Appointment time options will be made available to subscribers between 24-28 June.
  • Post race weather and performance debrief will be available up to 2-weeks after the race ending. Later debriefs can be available upon request.
  • PACKAGE RATE $225

To subscribe for Chicago-Mackinac Race Forecast Package, complete the RealWeather Customer Information Page providing yacht and skipper/owner information, to including contact numbers that will enable us to reach you.

Best Regards-


Susan Genett