Island Genn and Dr Catcher sitting in the cockpit of an MTI go fast boat!
This year’s World Championship Races for Super Boat International start in Key West on November 4th. This is always exciting, not only for viewing the races, but also for the parade of colorful and awe inspiring boats that make their way down the Overseas Hwy (US 1) for this event. The World Championships are always held in Key West, and last year the races turned deadly with several crashes that lead to three deaths on the water. Let us hope that everyone stays safe at this year’s races and that the winds stay calm for the racers.
John Carbonell founded Super Boat International in 1989. This series is the only sanctioned body for offshore power boat racing in the world. As such, it has attracted many celebrities such as Don Johnson and Kurt Russell. The race course is approximately six miles and boats can reach a top speed of up to 200 miles per hour!
There are several racing teams, each competing in different categories. These categories include Superboat Unlimited, Superboat Extreme, Superboat Vee Limited, Superboat, Turbine, Superboat Stock, Manufacturer Production 1, Manufacturer Production 2, Manufacturer Production 3, and Manufacturer Production 4. Some of the more well known teams to watch for are Peters & May Racing, Hawaiian Tropic, and the Miss Geico.
Check out the schedule of events below, and come visit Key West for the races next week!
Schedule of Events
November 4
9am – 5pm
Race Village Open – Race Boats on Display:
Truman Annex, End of Southard St
9am – 3pm
Racer Registration: Truman Annex
9am – 3pm
Passes – Credentials: Truman Annex Entrance
4pm
Boat Parade: Duval Street
November 5
8:30am
MANDATORY DRIVERS MEETING: Key West
Marriott Beachside Hotel 3841 N Roosevelt Blvd
9am – 5pm
Race Village Open – Race Boats on Display: Truman Annex
11am – 5pm
Racer Registration: Truman Annex
11am – 5pm
Race Boat Inspection: Truman Annex
12pm – 4pm
Water Dunkers Test: Days Inn 3842 N Roosevelt Blvd
9am – 5pm
Passes – Credentials: Truman Annex Entrance
6pm – 9pm
Welcome Party: U.S. & International Teams, Truman Annex
Racer Pass, Guest Credential or VIP pass required
November 6
9am – 5pm
Race Boat Inspection: Truman Annex
9am – 5pm
Launching: Truman Annex
9am – 5pm
Race Village Open – Race Boats on Display: Truman Annex
9am – 5pm
Racer Registration: Truman Annex
9am – 5pm
Passes – Credentials: Truman Annex Entrance
9am – 5pm
Testing for Race Boats: Off Truman Annex
10am – 2pm
Water Test / Dunkers: Days Inn 3842 N. Roosevelt Blvd.