CHICAGO — For Charlie and Shannon Schmalz, summer doesn’t mean a quiet weekend by the lake. Instead, it means tackling one of the world’s longest freshwater sailing competitions — the 116th Annual Chicago to Mackinac Race.
The event, known as “The Mac,” spans more than 300 nautical miles, drawing over 3,000 sailors and 300 boats to compete in the legendary race from Chicago to Mackinac Island.
A Lifetime of Sailing Together
Charlie Schmalz, who hails from Kaukauna, Wisconsin, remembers the moment his daughter started sailing with him — long before she could even speak full sentences.
“Shannon started sailing with us when she could walk, maybe before,” Charlie shared.
That early exposure to sailing laid the foundation for a lifelong passion, one that would continue to grow as Shannon matured.
From Lake Winnebago to the Chicago Yacht Club
After college, Shannon was looking for community — and found it on the water.
She joined the Chicago Yacht Club sailing team, where she became a part of “Team Jahazi.” What began as casual racing evolved into full commitment.
“I just fell in love with it, with my team, Jahazi,” Shannon told WFRV, adding that they later invited her to race overnight — and eventually to participate in The Mac.
When the team needed one more crew member, she knew who to call.
A Special Father-Daughter Bond
“When we were short on crew, I said I would call my dad,” Shannon said. “And everyone was saying, ‘Oh, a father’s daughter.’ Then, they met him and found out the value he brings.”
Now, for the third year in a row, Charlie and Shannon are racing side by side in the iconic event — blending family tradition with high-seas teamwork.
“It just makes it all worth it to me,” Charlie said. “I don’t know if I would do it by myself, but having that experience with her has been a great time.”
Have you or someone you know ever raced in the Chicago to Mackinac? We’d love to hear your stories. Visit us at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com to share your experience or leave a comment!
