(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Forget what you know about sailboat races, because the Sail GP competition is like no other.
Considered the Formula 1 of sailboat races, 10 high-tech hydrofoiling catamaran boats will race head-to-head next month as part of the U.S. Sail Grand Prix and Navy Pier.
"The foils make noise, they make a pretty high pitch whistling noise when they go through the water and the boats travel at over 50 miles per hour, we get close to 60 miles per hour," said Rome Kirby, a decorated competitor with Sail GP Team USA.
Lake Michigan is the first-ever fresh water event as part of the tour.
Kirby told WBBM Newsradio the 'Chicago skyline stadium' offers a picturesque view for fans and ideal conditions for racers.
"It's like a natural amphitheater," he said. "This has a natural boundary with the breakwall, and Navy Pier being right there and offshore enough where spectators can see it, it's a pretty cool spot to race."
"It's a spectacular venue," added Sir Russell Coutts, CEO of Sail GP. "I can't think of another city like it worldwide."
Spectators can watch the 90-minute event offshore at Navy Pier or be right where the action is and watch by boat.
The race takes place June 18 and 19 and tickets are on sale at https://sailgp.com/.
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