Only in Sarasota: Nathan Benderson Park, U.S. Rowing Youth National Championships
Long known for beaches and culture, Sarasota is also gaining a reputation for world-class sporting events, including the enormous World Rowing Championships that will bring athletes and fans from around the world to Nathan Benderson Park in September.
Tickets are going quickly for the 2017 World Rowing Championships to be held Sept. 23 to Oct. 1 at Nathan Benderson Park. The event is expected to attract 40,000 spectators throughout the week to cheer on the top rowing teams from the U.S. and around the world.
The options range from $10 a day for standing-room-only access to roam Regatta Island to $20,000 to rent a private luxury suite for the week. VIP passes for the finals during the Championship Weekend Sept. 30 and Oct. 1 are already sold out, said Max Winitz, media and public relations manager for the World Rowing Championships organization. Ticket sales are at 68 percent of the organizers’ goal and are expected to accelerate when participating countries select all their athletes.
- Grandstand seating places fans right at the finish line. These covered and reserved bleacher seats offer an escape from the sun and a great view of all the competition. These tickets cost from $15 per day for the first five days to $40 per day for the finals during Championship Weekend, Sept. 30 and Oct. 1.
- Beach seats are for those who prefer to soak up the sun along the west side of Regatta Island. Located along the final stretch of the course, fans can sink their toes in the sand at the water’s edge. In-seat beverage service is available. These cost $30 per day.
- VIP passes are for those looking to get out of the elements. They allow fans to watch from the second floor of the six-story, air-conditioned Finish Tower located next to the grandstand seating and directly above the finish line. VIP pass holders also can go out onto that floor’s large balcony and receive VIP parking spots. Holders of these tickets also will have access to food and beverage service as well as a bird’s eye view of the finish. These tickets cost $125 per day until Championship Weekend. They were sold out for Championship Weekend but more were added to help meet the demand.
- The Championship Pavilion along the west bank of the lake at Nathan Benderson Park (opposite Regatta Island) will provide a laid-back viewing experience. The Pavilion includes a cash bar and a-la carte food service in a lounge-like atmosphere. These tickets run $30 per day for the first five days to $45 for Championship Weekend.
- Private Luxury Suites also can be rented on the lake’s west bank. They are luxury tents with deck floors, air-conditioning and full furnishings. A full bar and catering by Michael’s on East is available at an additional cost. The suites accommodate 40 people at a time, come with 20 daily parking passes, with additional parking passes available. These accommodations come in two flavors, a Gold level for $20,000 and Silver level for $15,000.
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Content courtesy of John Dowling Herald Tribune
