World Championships to Stay in Key West in 2014

Super Boat International (SBI) announced in a press release this evening that the 34th annual Key West Offshore World Championships will remain in Key West, Fla., next year. Members of SBI, Conch Republic Offshore Powerboat Racing Association (CROPRA) and city representatives met today to confirm the event will be held from November 2-9, 2014.

The Key West Offshore World Championships is scheduled for Nov. 2-9, 2014. Photo courtesy Super Boat International

“CROPRA has agreed and will seek financial committees and assistance from the community to refine the financial obligations to bring forward the races in 2014 and beyond,” said CROPRA President Larry Bleil.

Despite the possibility of the world championships moving to Clearwater, Fla., all of the members present at the meeting expressed the need to make the event happen and to continue helping the retail service people of Key West.

“I am happy that everything worked out today,” said SBI President John Carbonell. “We have received a lot of support from the city of Key West and from CROPRA. They are committed to increase sponsorship dollars and make the world championships another successful event. We believe we are moving in a positive direction for this coming year and the future.”

According to City Manager Bob Vitas, a deal is pending for a five-year commitment to keep the event in Key West.

“I am very happy all organizations are working together, not only to have this event stay here, but stay for a long time,” said City Commissioner Mark Rossi. “Everyone seems to be working closely together.”

Rossi and Vitas discussed the upcoming plans for the Truman Waterfront property and highlighted the plans for phase 1, which will pose limited obstruction for the race site.

“This event is very important to the city and county, and we feel that this site is as equally important to our fans and race teams,” Carbonell said. “We are committed through 2014 and hopefully beyond. It’s up to CROPRA and the city to meet the financial expectations and commitments set forth in today’s meeting that will help secure our commitment for future years.”

No financial terms and obligations were made available in the press release.

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