Bell's Extends Sponorship of Annual Bayview Mackinac Race

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DETROIT— Detroit’s Bayview Yacht Club, one of the most storied and historical sailing clubs in the world, today announced the kickoff the 2013 Bell’s Beer Bayview Mackinac Race. The 89th consecutive race starts on Southern Lake Huron, just north of the Blue Water Bridge at 11:30 a.m. July 20.

“Bayview is in its third year of a five-year plan designed to secure the future of the race while placing a clear focus on the competition and sailors,” said 2013 Bayview Yacht Club Commodore Kent M. Colpaert. “The multi-year sponsorships we have secured from our partners, including our title sponsor Bell’s Beer, has given the race unprecedented stability and has allowed us to ensure the races sailing traditions and the Bayview Experience.”

On cue with Bayview’s long-term strategy is more great news from Kalamazoo’s Bell’s Brewery, as Marketing Director Laura Bell announced a two-year extension of title sponsorship of the prestigious race through 2016. Bell’s is currently in its third year as the title sponsor, and company owner, Larry Bell, understands the benefits of the company’s investment in the race from both on and off the water. 

“As a company with strong Michigan-based roots, we are proud to continue our support of such a world-class event as the Bell’s Beer Bayview Mackinac Race. As a fan and a competitor in the race, I am thrilled that our sponsorship has allowed Bayview to focus on the sailing,” said Larry Bell, owner of Bell’s Brewery Inc. “It is such an honor to have my company’s name on the billboard that showcases the best our great state has to offer.”

On-the-water competitors will see very little change to the 2013 event; boats will again cross the finish with the iconic Round Island Passage Light in the Straights of Mackinac to starboard.

“Our goal is to make the race an enjoyable competition for participants and spectators alike,” said Carl Bihlmeyer Race Chairman 2013 Bell’s Beer Bayview Mackinac Race. “In addition to the race enhancements made last year, the consistency of our rules and regulations will allow competitors to focus on preparation and sailing. Off the water, fans will have a chance to join the fun through a variety of exciting events that strive to benefit the community.”

For the second year, metro Detroiters will have a chance to experience the Acura Sailing Under the Stars Charity Preview, the public kick-off event for the race to be held from 6 -11 p.m., Saturday, June 15. Featuring offerings from 25 of metro Detroit and Port Huron’s finest restaurants, eateries and sweet shops, this year’s event is sure to be the must attend event of the early summer.

Guests will have chance to sample a wonderful assortment of food from Santorini Estiatorio, Bayview Yacht Club, Di’Amato’s Restaurant, Hudson Café, Palm Palace, Sindbad’s Restaurant & Marina, Hamlin Pub Catering, Vintomondo, Vintage House, La Marsa, Majestic Café, Blue Fin, BD’s Mongolian and many more.

“Acura Sailing Under the Stars is the perfect way to kickoff festivities surrounding the race, and Bayview Yacht Club is the perfect place to spend a June summers night.  The turnout and the buzz generated last year made continuing the signature charity preview a no brainer,” said Doug Fox of Ann Arbor Acura. “To experience the atmosphere of the Detroit river front, and enjoy some of the region’s finest restaurants and entertainers and supporting many great causes, makes this one of the can’t miss events of the summer.”

The event is expected to raise more than $40,000 and will benefit six local non-profits, including Autism Speaks, COTS, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Matrix Human Services, Play Place for Autistic Children and Rose Hill Center.

Tickets for the Acura Sailing Under the Stars Charity Preview are $75 per person and can be purchased at www.sailingunderthestars.com. During the process of purchasing a ticket, guests will be asked which charity they would like proceeds of their ticket to benefit. Valet parking is included in the price of the ticket.