Come 2013, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show might see another big event as a lead-in: the Fort Lauderdale Grand Prix. Or it might not.
The only thing that is certain: The promoters of the IndyCar race have been told to ensure the Fort Lauderdale Grand Prix does not conflict with the boat show, the premier megayacht-oriented show stateside.
Last week, promoters for the Fort Lauderdale Grand Prix 2013 held at least two different meetings with area residents. The goal was to unveil plans and solicit feedback for the race, tentatively set by the city for three weeks prior to the boat show. According to the Sun-Sentinel newspaper, most of the attendees were in favor of the race. However, they did not want to see the race interfere with the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. Dale Dillon, representing the promoters, was quoted by the Sun-Sentinel as saying, “We’re not here to replace or interrupt any existing event.” The newspaper also reports that Dillon mentioned possible dates toward the end of September.
Much earlier or even later dates would likely make Show Management, the boat show’s organizer, satisfied. At one meeting last week, Dane Graziano, senior vice president for Show Management, indicated that the tentative October dates conflicted with the boat show’s setup.
The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, which will celebrate its 54th anniversary in 2013, brings in about half a billion dollars for the local economy, according to the city’s mayor, Jack Seiler. This, Seiler adds, exceeds the revenue from any other event held in Fort Lauderdale. For comparison’s sake, the Fort Lauderdale Grand Prix is expected to generate $50 million to $70 million.
While Seiler was quoted as saying, “We’re never going to do anything to compromise [the boat show],” he apparently still thinks close dates can work. “I’m almost thinking there could be a very complementary relationship,” he commented.
Bentley Freeman
Why Broward County would choose to do business with Nick Hunter Reay, in his promotion of a Grand Prix in Ft. Laudale is just beyond my comprehension. Just Google Nick Hunter Reay to see why I say this,