Nathan Benderson Park: Home Of The 2017 World Rowing Championships

Post date: Feb 7, 2018 4:16:11 AM

Last September, the Sarasota and Manatee counties, and neighboring areas, were given a treat days after Hurricane Irma hit several parts of Florida. The best rowers from different parts of the world convened at the Nathan Benderson Park for the 2017 World Rowing Championships, an event that draws more than 1,000 athletes and more than 10,000 spectators.

Image source: concept2.com

The 600-acre park with 400 acres of artificial lake was once used as a pasture land and then a sand pit for the construction of Interstate 75. It had since been transformed into a world-class rowing destination. And for a week, it became an Olympic-style athletic village.

The Opening Ceremony during the 23rd was symbolic of the days to come as the participating rowers and their team’s delegates were commemorated, the amazing coastal and cultural community of Sarasota was showcased, and a dazzling firework show lit up the night sky.

The competition throughout the week-long event was intense and had spectators at their feet, with Italy winning the overall championship with three gold, three silver, and three bronze medals. New Zealand and Australia also tallied three first-place finishes, but had fewer silver and bronze awards.

Image source: tsw-design.com

There was no doubt that the event was a huge success. It also brought an economic impact of $22.6 million to the state of Florida, validating that the rowing park and hosting the World Rowing Championships were worth the investment.

Benderson Development Company developed the master plan, management plan, and construction plan of the Nathan Benderson Park. The park was named after the company’s late founder, whose legacy of excellent work ethic and passion for growth is something that his son, Randy Benderson, hopes to emulate as company president. Follow this Twitter page for more information on him.