Midwest Acorn Program

Midwest 2024

Tone and Laura Martin have generously donated their Nelson Marek 68 for the programs this year.  The NM 68′ is a bit larger than the Farr 400 we sailed on the Great Lakes in 2023, it allows us to offer a fifth summer of Midwest programming. The bonus of having a larger boat for summer 2024 is we can accommodate to teach even more trainees. While Oakcliff is on the Great Lakes we will also be able to spend some time doing outreach with local junior and community sailing programs. 

*Note we highly recommend athletes participate in all sessions but can be somewhat flexible in start and finish times.

Trainees will learn:

  • Project Management
  • Provisioning for offshore
  • Positions from driving to trimming to navigation
  • Serving as a first mate or boat captain
  • Leadership lessons and more

Email Training Director Ethan Johnson at training@oakcliffsailing.org for more information.

Midwest 1: Chicago Mackinac Race 

July 7 – 19, 2024 

Cost: $1,900

Regarded as Americas Offshore Challenge, the Chicago Mackinac begins in front of Chicago’s magnificent skyline and finishes 289 nautical miles north on Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, at Michigan’s iconic Mackinac Island. 230 registered boat entries represent almost every U.S state, as well as 16 foreign countries. This prestigious competition celebrates its 114th Anniversary this year. Following the race, the program includes sailing the boat to Detroit. 

Midwest 2: Bayview Mackinac Race 

July 15 – 25, 2024 

Cost: $950

*This program is pending sponsorship, please contact race@oakcliffsailing.org. 

Sailboats from across the U.S. converge each summer for the oldest, consecutively run fresh water yacht race in the world: the Bayview Mackinac Race. Hosted by the Bayview Yacht Club, this iconic race marks its 100th anniversary this year, drawing top sailors to navigate the challenging waters from Port Huron to Mackinac Island. Recognized for its storied history and the stunning backdrop of Lake Huron, the Bayview Mackinac Race continues to captivate the sailing community. We are doing the delivery from Mackinac Island to Port Huron and after the race delivery to Chicago.

Apply Today