Annual Port Huron to Mackinac sailboat race underway

PORT HURON, Mich. (AP) — About 200 sailboats and 1,600 sailors are on their way from Port Huron to Mackinac Island following the start of the annual Bell's Beer Bayview Mackinac Race on Lake Huron.

Race Chair Robert Nutter says weather conditions were favorable for Saturday's start near the Blue Water Bridge that connects the U.S. and Canada.

Nutter says that depending on the strength of the wind, the first boats could arrive at Mackinac Island late Sunday to early Monday.

The event has 20 boat classes and features two courses. The Cove Island Course is 280 nautical miles (518 kilometers) while the Shore Course is 205 nautical miles (379 kilometers).