What is your system for sailing offshore?

The difference between day racing around buoys and going overnight offshore is more than just distance. Wally Cross highlights what to focus on:

Due to a weather forecast predicting tumultuous conditions during the Bayview Mackinac Race, close to 10 boats dropped out before the race even began—and another 88 retired within a matter of hours due to 25 to 35-knot winds.

During this two-course race, slower boats sail along the shore while the fast boats sail diagonally across the lake to a virtual turning mark in the Cove Island area.

For years, light to moderate winds have caused challenging sailing conditions on the Great Lakes, due to a dominant high-pressure system. This year, extreme heat followed by a cold front produced high wind and waves from the North. – Full report