Off-Grid Power, On-Point Performance: A Sailor’s Story from the Mackinac Races

In the world of endurance sailing, small advantages can make all the difference. For one competitive sailor, the difference between fatigue and focus—and ultimately between finishing and winning—came down to something most racers overlook: sleep.

This season, he competed in two of the most iconic long-distance sailing events in North America: the Port Huron to Mackinac Race and the Chicago to Mackinac Race. Both races are multi-day, grueling tests of skill, endurance, and teamwork. With the crew on a rotating 4-hour watch schedule, sleep was not a luxury but a necessity.

For a sailor who depends on a CPAP machine for restorative rest, the challenge was clear: how to power essential medical equipment on an off-grid sailboat in the middle of the race.

The solution? The EXP48PRO CPAP battery.

Rest Is Not a Luxury—It’s a Strategy

“Sleep is absolutely critical in endurance racing,” he explains. “If you’re not rested, you can’t think clearly, react quickly, or keep your body performing under stress. I knew I needed a compact, reliable battery that could run my CPAP every night onboard—and the EXP48PRO delivered.”

Throughout both races, the EXP48PRO kept his CPAP running without interruption, giving him deep, uninterrupted sleep during short rest shifts. No drop-offs. No stress. Just dependable power in the middle of Lake Michigan.

Jim and his team make it a point to pray before and during the races, giving glory to God for their victories. The EXP PRO team was praying along side them during their most recent race on Lake Michigan. It is our joy to be able to work along side a team of people that seek to honor God and serve Him in their competition. 

How It Paid Off on Race Day

The results spoke for themselves. With quality rest, he woke up sharper, recovered, and ready to perform.

• More clarity during navigation and strategy discussions

• Quicker reflexes when handling the sails under pressure

• Greater endurance through long days and rough conditions

That edge made a real impact. His team went on to secure podium finishes in both races—a feat he credits in part to finally being able to rest properly with the EXP48PRO.

Small Gear, Big Impact

Sailors often obsess over sails, weather routing, or nutrition. But sometimes, the biggest difference comes from personal gear.

“The EXP48PRO wasn’t just a convenience—it was my secret weapon,” he says. “It gave me the freedom to sleep soundly, the peace of mind that my CPAP would always work, and ultimately, the performance boost I needed when it mattered most.”

Why the EXP48PRO Works for Sailors and Endurance Athletes

• Compact & Lightweight: At just 3.25 lbs, it’s easy to stow on any vessel.

• Reliable Runtime: Powers CPAP machines for 2–3 nights per charge (without humidifier).

• Rugged Design: IP65-rated for outdoor use and resistant to dust and water spray.

• TSA Approved: Travel-ready at 154Wh capacity.

• Fast Charging: Recharges in only 2.5 hours, ready for the next race or adventure.

The Takeaway

For endurance athletes and sailors who rely on CPAP therapy, the EXP48PRO isn’t just a battery—it’s a competitive advantage. By ensuring proper rest in the harshest conditions, it helps turn preparation into performance.

Whether you’re racing to the podium or adventuring off-grid, the EXP48PRO gives you the power, reliability, and peace of mind to compete—and live—at your best.