Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix's festival introduced a new activity at the 33rd annual event. The Inaugural "Fan Fest” occurred July 1 and 2 in the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall parking lot. The Fan Fest was free to the public and featured large, interactive displays from sponsors, a large tent where guests watched the boats launch and watched the races and live music.

Fans also enjoyed food from plenty of vendors, and had a chance to meet the teams up close in the dry pit area.

“This year, there are no competing races on the calendar near the Festival resulting in an increase of large powerboats expected to compete," said festival director Lucy Nicandri prior to the event. "The number of boats pre-registered to compete in the 750 Super Cat Class alone has significantly increased, which should heat up the competition out on the water for race fans. The spectator line for boaters has also been moved closer for better viewing."

The Miss GEICO boat defended its unlimited title at the Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix race this year and did not disappoint, despite a close race against Scuderia Cazzani.

To read more about the festival's results, you can visit the Grand Prix website.