Chicago Yacht Club
The Chicago Yacht Club (CYC) is in Chicago, Illinois. Founded in 1875, its mission is to encourage, promote, and develop all aspects of yachting. The club has two harbors: Monroe Harbor and Belmont Harbor, and it runs many races and regattas from May 1 to October 31. CYC is best known as the organizer of the Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac each July.
Key moments in its history include the first Race to Mackinac in 1898 and the Argo clubhouse on Illinois Central Pier #3 in 1900. The Chicago to Mackinac Trophy started in 1906 and has been awarded every year since 1921. Races paused during 1917–1920 for World War I but continued through World War II. In 1955, construction began on the Monroe Harbor clubhouse, and Belmont Harbor became home to the club’s One-Design sailing fleet and a large sailing school.
The club has hosted famous sailors, including Robert Halperin, Richard Stearns, and William Parks, with Halperin earning an Olympic bronze in 1960 and a Pan American gold in 1963. Chicago Yacht Club also played a part in America’s Cup history in 1987, competing in the Louis Vuitton Cup with the Heart of America, skippered by Buddy Melges; the team finished 8th of 13. A notable question about whether Great Lakes boats could compete under the Deed of Gift was resolved in favor of allowing them.
Today, the club continues to host major events: the NOOD Regatta in June, the Race to Mackinac in July, and the Verve Cup regatta in August, attracting top sailors from across the country. CYC is also a longtime leader in teaching sailing to both children and adults, offering sailing lessons for many decades.
This page was last edited on 3 February 2026, at 06:52 (CET).