14 September 2017
The Sarasota/Bradenton area did not come under the direct impact of Hurricane Irma as predicted thus, luckily, damage is limited. First and foremost, sincere thanks go to the Sarasota County Emergency Management Department and all of the local and state officials for their preparation, communication and mobilization efforts in keeping the community safe from the hurricane. Tampa and Sarasota airports are now open and operational, the official hotels, caterers and transport partners are confirmed and, effective today, Tuesday, 12 September, county officials have granted the Local Organizing Committee access to continue operations at Nathan Benderson Park. As a result of months of planning and forecasting for potential storm delays, venue buildout is on schedule and the OC will be ready to host the world’s greatest rowers in Sarasota-Bradenton next week. The Manager of Athlete Services is in communication with Team Managers from each team and confirming arrival schedules. The full schedule of the 2017 World Rowing Championships will begin with the Opening Ceremony, on Saturday, 23 September, with racing starting on Sunday, 24 September, through to the final day of competition, Sunday, 1 October 2017.
