ABOUT THE FILM

American Sailors is an hour long documentary that takes you on board and behind the scenes as four great skippers prepare and race their boats in the longest and oldest freshwater race in the world. In 2008, the Chicago Yacht Club expanded the field to more than 400 boats for the historic 100th running of the magnificent race from Navy Pier in Chicago to beautiful Mackinac Island. See and experience the race as never before aboard:

  • Peerless – with first time skipper Brian Torresen
  • Souvenir – skippered by school teacher Steve Schiller
  • Windquest – the previous year’s overall winner
  • Windancer – with John Nedeau Racing in his record 61st MAC

There’s no better seat in the house to see yacht racing for what it really is – a test of skill, teamwork, and technology all at the mercy of the unpredictable breeze.

THE COWBOY

Peerless – Skipper, Brian Torresen
At age 36, he is one of the most sought after sailboat experts in the Midwest. For over twenty years he’s been the ringer on crews for maxi-skippers from all over the globe. This year he’s going for speed on a lightweight Melges 32.

THE PRO

Windquest – Skipper, Tom Giesler
The boat owned by brothers Dick and Doug Devos, Windquest is the most decorated boat in American fresh water sailing. With 10 years professional sailing experience, Tom knows how to navigate the waters of high emotions that accompany a big race, and he’s ready to try to set another record.

THE SCHOOL TEACHER

Souvenir – Skipper, Steve Schiller
This middle school teacher knows the course, knows his boat, and knows his chances. Crewed by family and friends, Schiller wants what the Souvenir had once before: a division title.

THE OLD GOAT

Windancer – Skipper, John Nedeau
This is John’s 61st running of the race – he’s the longest running skipper by more than ten years. There’s not a story he doesn’t know or a condition he hasn’t met. And he knows the competition. An inspiration to many, this legend isn’t ready to give up anything.

WHAT AMERICAN SAILORS COULD BE

A documentary is just the start. With support we want to make American Sailors a reality based HD series. The show will take you to some of the most beautiful harbors around the world. In every hour-long episode you’ll meet the men and women who turn the open waters into their personal racetrack.
Through our lenses you’ll get on board and behind the scenes to watch the strategies, the competitive drives, and the natural elements that determine the winners and losers in the big-money sport of yacht racing.
Every week will cover a new location, a new race. Every week will reveal a new story as we discover who will prevail and who will fall short. It’s driven by the winds, but it’s honed by the masters. The sport is sailing, and you’ve never seen it covered like this before.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

While we pursue funding and distribution channels for an American Sailors television series, you can show your support for the documentary by hosting a screening at your local theater. Hosting a screening of American Sailors is a great way to raise money for your local organization. Whether it is a yacht club or a college sailing team, fundraising events with the award winning American Sailors can be beneficial for your group. If you are interested in hosting a fundraiser screening of American Sailors please contact Arlen Eldridge of Grooters Productions at (616) 546-4000.