The Mug Race
“The world’s longest river race”
Over 70 years of racing
Welcome to The Rudder Club of Jacksonville's annual Mug Race! Dating back to 1957, the Mug Race is a long-standing tradition that tests sailors' skills as they race down the St. Johns River from Palatka to Jacksonville. This exciting event attracts sailors from all over the region, making it one of the most anticipated races of the year.
The Mug Race offers participants a challenging yet rewarding experience, with varying wind conditions and river currents along the 40-plus mile course. Whether you're an experienced sailor or just starting out, the Mug Race is a fantastic opportunity to test your abilities and enjoy a day on the water.
Stay tuned for updates on registration dates, course details, and event schedules. We look forward to another thrilling Mug Race with our vibrant sailing community!
The Annual Mug Race
Welcome to the 70th running of the Mug Race hosted by The Rudder Club of Jacksonville and The Palatka Yacht Club. The Rudder Club is the event organizing authority.
The Mug Race is a 38 nautical mile one-way race down the St. Johns River from Palatka to Orange Park FL. It is open to all sailboats with a mast height of 44 feet or less. There will be two separate starts using the same start line, one for multihulls followed by one for other boats.
Classic Route
This year, the race returns to its traditional starting venue in downtown Palatka. The packet pickup will be at the Quality Inn, which also has rooms (dock space available for those who rent rooms), a bar, and restaurant. The skippers' meeting will be in the Riverfront Park Amphitheater. Boats can also tie up overnight at the City Docks, and launch at the City Ramp. The race will begin just north of the Memorial Bridge (US 17), providing great views for spectators.