MARQUETTE -- Local sailors won't be traveling far for the 2012 Ensign National Sailing Regatta Competition.

For the first time ever, the race will be held in Marquette.
    
It's a dream come true for many members of Marquette's Fleet 35.  The group has been around in Marquette since the 1970s and races every Wednesday during the summer.
    
They say hosting a huge competition here at home is an honor.

"Mixed emotions--you want to do a good job and make sure that everybody has a good time, that things run smoothly--and also excited for our fleet and the City of Marquette that we were chosen to host," said Regatta Chairman, Neil Lynch.

The championship will be held August 12 through 16 next year.  Racing will take place every day during the week.  Spectators will have the option to watch from the water or on the shore.