Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix Festival

Sarasota, Florida - July 3rd - 6th, 2008

For most Americans, the July 4th weekend conjures images of fireworks exploding in the sky; brass bands marching in parades and picnic tables adorned with checkered tablecloths and loaded with culinary delights. For Sarasota, Florida residents it also means the annual Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix. Over the past 24 years, the Grand Prix's festival has contributed over $14 million in facilities that have benefited the physically and mentally challenged. This year's Festival raised a net total of over $100,000 for The Florida Center and the Suncoast Foundation for the Handicapped, Inc.

 

This year's Grand Prix guests of honor included Capt. Keith, Monte and Travis. The weekend kicked off with a mixer atop the open air, third floor of the Ceviche Restaurant where Capt. Keith was presented with the Key to the City of Sarasota. After graciously accepting the honor, the Capt. called Florence and Sienna up to the stage. He then gave the key to a beaming Sienna.

 

The extended weekend also included a spot in the festival's downtown parade.  Race teams, boats, monster trucks and military color guards made their way along the parade route.  Parade watchers waved, jumped and screamed for beads, t-shirts and other novelties that were handed out from the various floats and trucks. Capt. Keith, Florence and Sienna sat atop a souped up, pitch black convertible Mustang. Travis and Monte cruised along behind the Capt. in a bright yellow "tricked out" golf cart, affectionately dubbed the Wiz Mobile. A block party followed the parade, and Capt. Keith and the gang spent time chatting with fans and enjoying the sultry summer evening.

 

Video Description: Capt. Keith, Monte and Travis spend a memorable morning fishing with some truly special fans.

 

Without question, the highlight of the visit for the crew was their time spent fishing in the Friendliest Catch Fishing Tournament hosted by the Sarasota Outboard Club.  Local volunteers welcomed those with special needs aboard their boats for lots of fishing and fun. All participants caught and released fish with their angler partners, learned the basics of fishing, then returned to shore for lunch and awards presentations. 

 

Over the next two days, Capt. Keith, Travis and Monte spent countless hours taking pictures, shaking hands, giving hugs and signing shirts, hats and pictures for eager and excited fans who braved long lines and blazing heat to meet them.  The crew had mini Grundens on hand for wee ones to wear while having their picture taken, and all who "joined the crew that day" by wearing the gear were encouraged to autograph a large CAT Marine poster. The Wizettes came out in force to show their support for Capt. Keith, Monte and Travis. Though time was tight, the Capt. was able to spend a few minutes with his faithful following.

 

Caterpillar Marine Power generously sponsored the Wizard crew's appearance. Captain Keith was very proud to be able to work with Caterpillar on an event that reflected the values of both Keith, and CAT's." The Wizard is completely powered, and reliant on Caterpillar engines. The quality of CAT, and the people behind the machinery they make really showed at this charitable event" Keith stated.

Representatives from the Miss Geico Racing Team dropped by and presented the crew with neon yellow racing jackets, and gave the boys a spin in their Geio Caveman racing boat. Travis was the number two man in the JB Byrider boat for a trip around the bay that reached speeds of 128 mph! The week's festivities also included a trip to Tropicana Field where the Capt. and Monte were given the honor of throwing out the ceremonial first pitch at a Tampa Rays vs Boston Redsox's game.

 

The stay in Sarasota concluded early for Capt. Keith as he was needed back in Seattle to resume his position as the coach of the Fall City *Little League all-star team. Caelan as a member of the team was unable to attend. Travis, Florence and Monte did a smashing job finishing up the weekend's events in his stead. I think all in attendance would agree it was a special and memorable trip.

Keith Monte, and Travis were overwhelmed by the turnout, and support for the Wizard, and an incredible cause. The success of the event was made possible by Festival Director Lucy Nicandri and a huge group of volunteers. The support in Memory of Kevin Brown was tremendous, and the offshore races have truly lost a great champion of the sport. That outpouring of support was evidenced by generous, and diverse group of sponsors, and a passionate field of amazing race teams, and participants.

A huge thanks to everyone involved for making the 2008 Sarasota Offshore boat races an overwhelming success.