1/12/2017
Welcome to the 93rd Bayview Mackinac Race, the World’s Most Challenging Freshwater Yacht Race! As of this time and date, 24 boats have registered since registration opened on December 16th.
I admit it: I am remiss in not posting a message sooner. But the Mackinac Race Authority (‘MRA’), comprising of 9 members, has been busy behind the scenes as we continue to fine tune the Race and the attendant activities. Likely, the decision to use ORR for the Cove Island Course (same as 2016) and ORR-EZ for the Shore Course rather than PHRF is the biggest topic of conversation. The decision to use ORR-EZ was not an easy one for many reasons. However, as the MRA is charged with not only running the Race, but also protecting the viability of future races, we believe that ORR-EZ is the proper rating system for the Shore course of our Race. In a nutshell, ORR-EZ, like ORR, is primarily an objective rating system that considers speed potential based on boat and sail measurements, not the age of your sails, the condition of the boat’s bottom, the capability of your crew or your salesmanship skills. Another influence includes a wind mix based on current and historical data.
In order to better answer your questions on ORR-EZ, there will be a seminar presented at Bayview on March 3, 2017 at 1900 hours. Our presenters, Jim Teeters and Bjorn Johnson (Executive Director – Offshore Racing Association), will speak and will also be available for questions. I encourage you to attend whether you’ll be sailing ORR-EZ or ORR –
Looking forward to enjoying the deep blue waters of Lake Huron, spectacular sunrises, beautiful sunsets, fair winds & a great party on Mackinac Island with you this July!
Respectfully,
Tricia Smotherman, 2017 Race Chair
