From Detroit to Mackinac: an Unlikely Sailing Adventure for Brian Ellison

Detroit: A Sailing Destination

Detroit has a rising sailing scene thanks to the efforts of passionate individuals like Brian Ellison, who founded Detroit River Sports. Ellison discovered his love for sailing through a simple invitation to go sailing with his godfather. This invitation changed his life forever.

Introducing Detroit’s Youth to Sailing

Ellison is passionate about giving Detroit’s youth the same opportunities he had. He believes Detroit’s youth, especially Black and underprivileged children, should have access to sailing. He states that sailing aligns with teaching children about physics, mechanics, and logistics. The involvement of Detroit’s youth in sailing programs and clubs is growing. There are several sailing clubs in the Detroit and Grosse Pointe area which offer various engagement opportunities for novices. One example is the Bayview Yacht Club, which offers programs such as junior sailing, adult learn-to-sail and learn-to-race, and Hitchhiker Thursday.

Increasing Accessibility

Ellison acknowledges that, despite the increasing accessibility of sailing programs and clubs in Detroit, there is still a general lack of access. There should be more opportunities for Black children and kids from low-income families, who may not even be aware of the sport. Ellison was lucky that his godfather introduced him to sailing. In order to introduce more kids to sailing, the Washington family started the Challenge the Wind program in conjunction with the Detroit Boat Club. This program provides sailing opportunities to youth that may not have the chance otherwise.

Detroit’s Sailing Scene

Although still growing, Detroit’s sailing scene is thriving. Ellison has sailed the Virgin Islands and the East Coast and is a regular on the Michigan circuit. He’s also competed in the Bayview Port Huron to Mackinac Island race five times and is set to compete in this year’s race. The Bayview Port Huron to Mackinac Island race is celebrating 100 years this year. Ellison’s boat, Revel, which he entered in last year’s race as an owner and skipper, placed seventh out of 14 boats in its division.

A Test of Endurance and Skill

The Bayview Port Huron to Mackinac Island race is considered to be the Super Bowl of Great Lakes sailing. It draws professional sailors from around the world. The 204-mile 1925 Original Course is the only course this year. The race has over 332 boats this year, making it a record-breaking event. Brian and his team have been strategizing for weeks for this year’s race. They are fully committed to doing their best on the day. Ellison believes that good camaraderie on board is essential for winning. His team always has a good time, and they share many laughs and memories out on the water.

Originally Post From https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/other/2024/07/15/bayview-mackinac-race-tops-improbable-sailing-journey-for-detroiter-brian-ellison/74407601007/