Sarasota-Bradenton looks ahead to World Masters Regatta after successful World Rowing Championships
Visit Sarasota County, title sponsor of British Rowing’s Championship events, looks back on a successful World Rowing Championships in Sarasota-Bradenton
Warning: Video contains flashing images
Over the course of nine days, an estimated 40,000 fans cheered on 900 rowers in North America’s first World Rowing Championships since 1994. The Nathan Benderson Park facility and the organisation of the event proved to be an overwhelming success with rowers, fans and volunteers. Each day of the event had a different theme, with 33 vendors moving in and out, so visitors got to have a real taste of life in Sarasota-Bradenton.
Virginia Haley, President of Visit Sarasota County, commented: “We loved hosting the world’s best rowers in our back yard. Attendance has been fantastic, with over 40,000 people attending over the course of the nine days, and 10,000 people for the opening ceremony alone.”
The final medal count saw GB sit eighth in the medal table, with one gold, three silvers and three bronzes. The PR3 Mix4+ took gold in a new World Best Time, as Para-rowing was contested over 2,000m for the first time at the World Championships. There were silver medals for Vicky Thornley in the women’s single, the men’s quadruple scull, and the lightweight men’s quad. Bronze medals were won by Tom Barras in the men’s single, the women’s quad and the men’s four.
The next international rowing event to be held at Nathan Benderson Park will be the World Rowing Masters Regatta in September 2018. Watch this space for information on the entry process and the hiring of boats.
Those thinking of attending the Masters Regatta, may want to consider combining with a holiday to this beautiful stretch of Florida coastline. Visitors to Sarasota can expect a cultural and sophisticated holiday experience, being home to the State Art Museum of Florida, the largest State Park in Florida and also the frequently voted number one beach in America; Siesta Key. For more information on the destination and for tailor made holiday prices, contact America As You Like It on 0208 742 8299.
