Powerboating In Paradise Vol26#1

CELEBRATING 34 YEARS OF THE FLORIDA POWERBOAT CLUB LIFESTYLE

KEY WEST POWERBOAT WEEK 2025

Celebrating 33 Years in the festive Conch Republic!

Escaping to Key Largo for a Winter Warmup!

IN THIS ISSUE...

SATURDAY FUN RUN & WOMAN KEY CONCH REPUBLIC POWERBOAT VILLAGE

SATURDAY NIGHT AWARDS PARTY

Plus... Our Beautiful FPC Girls

WITH POWER AND PRESTIGE, THE MERCURY RACING 500R SETS THE NEW STANDAR FOR LUXURY HIGH-SPEED PERFORMANCE Y STANDARD PERFORMANCE.

PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER

Stu Jones stu@flpowerboat.com

OFFICE MANAGER & MEMBERSHIP DEPT

Megan Smith admin@flpowerboat.com

EVENT MANAGEMENT

RESERVATIONS & LODGING

Jackie Jones jackie@flpowerboat.com

Sydney Jones events@flpowerboat.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN & PHOTO DESK

Lina Montes fpclina@gmail.com

VIDEO PRODUCTION

Ryan McCoy- Producer mccoymedia@me.com

VIDEOGPAPHY & DRONE

Ryan McCoy

Tyler Jones

Stu Jones

Bricen Vereen

Andre Alvarez

PHOTOGRAPHY

Tyler Jones

Max Jones

Stu Jones

Pete Boden

Ryan Ferraro

FPC HEADQUARTERS

Florida Powerboat Club

1305 NE 23rd Ave.

Pompano Beach, FL 33062

MAILING ADDRESS: 1031 NE 28th Terr

Pompano Beach, FL 33062

Tel: 954.545-1414

www.flpowerboat.com

POMPANO OFFICE HOURS

Monday - Friday

10 AM - 5 PM

CONTENTS PAGE

6. LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT:

Stu Jones talks about the new year ahead and identifies key reasons for event format changes at FPC

8. 33 RD KEY WEST POWERBOAT WEEK 2025:

With fair weather and following seas the FPC troop headed southbound for this annual pilgrimage to powerboating paradise, as over 200 teams and over 1,000 participants took part in Florida Powerboat Club's 7-day signature event!

58. KEY WEST SATURDAY AERIALS:

Photo sessions and Woman Key Rendezvous

76. KEY WEST POWERBOAT VILLAGE:

Conch Republic Seafood Company pulled all the stops to provide an ideal venue that captured all the excitement of the festive occasion, with an amazing backdrop of high-performance hardware from all the leading performance manufacturers.

84. SATURDAY AWARDS PARTY:

The biggest night at the Key West Powerboat Village has always been Saturday evening, which featured numerous sponsor presentations, President's Choice Awards and is the final round at the poker tables for teams to play out their hands! Find out who all the winners were in this feature!

86. KEY LARGO WINTER RENDEZVOUS: PLAYA LARGO RESORT:

Staged every January to kick off the new year, there's always a chance for cool weather and chilly boating conditions on this run. But the 2026 edition did not disappoint those in attendance, as temperatures soared to the high 80's daily!

73. FPC Membership Programs 2026

81. FPC 2026 Wall Calendar order details 98. FPC Event Calendar

ON THE COVER: Key West Powerboat Week 2025 Sponsor docks at Conch Republic Seafood Co. FPC Girls: Shelby, Alyx & Jacie

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

january 2026

We wrapped up 2025 with an amazing turnout for the 33rd Annual Key West Powerboat Week event and in keeping with our normal publishing tradition, we have dedicated almost this entire issue of Powerboating in Paradise Magazine to full coverage! Of course, we saved some space in the back section to highlight our first event of 2026, the annual Key Largo Winter Rendezvous, which returned to the luxurious Playa Largo Resort. As you will see from all of the colorful images throughout this issue, we got lucky on the weather for both of these runs, and we can only cross our fingers and be hopeful that Mother Nature will be kind to us, as we continue into the Spring and Summer event series. So, let’s take at sneak peek at 2026 and what will be new or different on the FPC event agenda as we go forward.

First, let’s deal with the elephant in the room, about how FPC has changed our event formats to get away from poker runs. Let me be clear in saying, that the most obvious change in the format is merely the absence of the words “poker run” in the event names. Changing a mindset begins with changing the verbiage. The purpose is logical as any avid participant or stakeholder in the sport would agree, that event organizers have a high level of exposure when it comes to accidents that involve personal injury or fatalities during events. To diminish this threat, the best place to start is to remove the stereotypical public image of poker run events as being groups of weekend warriors who get together with 100 mph powerboats, to put the hammer down and run amuck on public waterways. That is NOT what I set out to create thirty-five years ago, and this is NOT how I want to see this sport evolve.

We can all enjoy the performance of our amazing powerboats, loaded with our family and friends, without the throttles pinned, and alcoholic beverage in every cup holder!

The second change that may be less obvious to many participants is that FPC has stepped back as marine event coordinator, by eliminating the process of applying for USCG event permits and the practice of engaging private duty firerescue teams to run along and monitor the event. Naturally, safety management fees were eliminated for all event registrations. The reasons are simple: FPC cannot express in a public forum nor on a federal government document, that we have “absolute control” of how operators run their boats, nor can we claim that we have all of the safety details of every event under (our) control. Because clearly, we don’t. That responsibility is in the hands of each and every boat owner and driver. Those operational guidelines are spelled out clearly in the USCG Inland Navigation Rule Book, i.e. Rules of the Road, and every boat operator on public waterways is responsible to follow those rules. This is United States federal law. That is why we now circulate the Rules of the Road handbook to every FPC member when they join or renew their membership, and we always punctuate Rule 6, about Safe Operation, which is most-cited rule-violation in almost every performance boating accident, along with alcohol use.

The third (minor) change is the poker run checkpoints, in order to keep the event fun and entertaining, and above all, safer for participants. We simply changed them to Safety Checkpoints, where each team can run alongside the dock or rendezvous with designated yachts or checkpoint boats, illustrating to organizers that the entire crew is following the mandatory PFD guidelines. Show us your PFD’s, we’ll reward you with a Bonus card and of course capture it all on video for the FPC media platforms! The ladies can still show off their color-matched bikinis and the crew with cool new team uniforms can portray their passion and team spirit! All of which generates nominations for numerous President’s Choice Awards for the dinner party to follow!

That brings us to the fourth and final change. As your event hosting organization, FPC remains committed to keeping the fun at an elevated level, and any events that were traditionally poker run themed, will maintain that status for the Dinner & Awards Party. Participants may turn in their bonus

cards from the run and play out their poker hands as always! And, for some of the 2026 events, we are introducing the Final Table format, where ten teams make it to the final table for a tournamentstyle playoff.

Any participant who attended the Emerald Coast or Key West events in 2025 would attest that the new event format was better in so many ways, and the only way anyone can really find out for themselves, is to join us for one of our upcoming events! The 2026 calendar is listed on Page 98 of this issue and please note of the new St. Augustine Rendezvous event in June. Participants will enjoy private slips and floating docks at the new municipal marina, elegant lodging at the historic Casa Monica Resort, and exciting excursions on local waterways from Daytona to Jacksonville. It’s going to be a fantastic year with FPC so don’t miss the fun!

FPC President & Founder

W I D E ANGLE VIEW

The Annual Key West Powerboat Week has stood the test of time and evolved to become a globally recognized event for thirty-three consecutive years under one organization. But the big picture from a wide angle lens reveals that FPC plays in the Key West sandbox with the powerboat race organization RWO, and the synergy between these two players generates an outcome where The "Whole is Greater than the SUM of its PARTS!" ( Aristotle )

Story by: Stu Jones

The Key West Powerboat Week in November is by far the most highly anticipated event every year for members of the Florida Powerboat Club. What started in 1993 as a 25-boat Sonic owners event that departed from Pier 66 in Fort Lauderdale, has now become the signature event for FPC with registration numbers that have ranged between 200 and 300 boat teams years after year! Now in its thirtythird year, the Key West Powerboat Week event is perhaps one of the most globally recognized annual events in the recreational performance boating arena as we know it. Yes indeed, the Key West Offshore Racing championships take place at the very same time, which provides an exciting backdrop for the FPC participants, with three days of racing. And while the two events are operated on different agendas, each organization agrees that this co-existence has been mutually beneficial in so many ways. In this editorial feature, we’ll highlight some of the significant factors that contribute to these synergies. So, let’s go step by step, with the various activities throughout the week!

Event Locations: Race World Offshore (RWO) makes its homebase at Truman Waterfront Park while Florida Powerboat Club (FPC) sets up event headquarters at Conch Rep Seafood Co, in the Historic Seaport. The venues are approximately one mile apart, separated by Old Town, which includes Duval Street, the dining and entertainment corridor for Key West.

Daily

Event Agendas: Sunday Nov 2 through Monday Nov 10 Sun & Mon: During the first two days of race week, RWO focuses primarily on welcoming race teams in Key West, while FPC does very much the same program, about 170 miles further north in Miami and Fort Lauderdale.

Tuesday: RWO registration and race-prep activities continue at their Truman Waterfront Park race venue, with registration, credentials, and boat inspections, while FPC gets its first group departure underway from Miami, with a lunch stopover at Gilberts Resort in Key Largo. In the earlier days, the Tuesday FPC run was introduced to the format for the hard-core race fans who wanted to arrive in Key West early enough to enjoy the full

3-day race schedule. Unfortunately, when a former race organization became unpopular, events were barely thirtyfive teams in total, and for about ten years, FPC dropped this Tuesday departure. More recently, with renewed interest in the sport and more race teams present under the RWO flag, FPC brought back the early bird Tuesday departure, and it will likely stay on the format for many years to come.

Wednesday: This was the first official race day for RWO and is also the second scheduled departure day for FPC teams departing Miami. While the arrival logistics of this could present a problem in Key West harbor with FPC teams arriving during the afternoon race program, it has now become a tradition for the FPC teams to take advantage of this opportunity, by joining in on any of the spectator fleet areas, throwing out an anchor and rafting up for the final races. From approximately 2pm to 4pm, races #5 and #6 feature many classes, including the very entertaining Super Stock class as the final event. The days are short in November with sunset shortly after 5:30pm, but this gives FPC members

plenty of time to arrive in their host marinas and get checked into hotels while there is still plenty of daylight!

Thursday: While this is a non-racing day for RWO, the FPC powerboat crews that arrived in Key West on Tuesday and Wednesday, now have a free play day to enjoy. If the weather is suitable, this is a terrific opportunity for these teams to get out and explore local waters. Our suggestions include the local sand bars or neighboring islands to the west, including Woman Key and Boca Grande which are within the Key West National Wildlife Refuge. About fifteen years ago the refuge officials deemed that the Key West Poker Run drew far too many powerboats to the rendezvous location along the Boca Grande beaches and have since closed those beaches to public boaters during the event. However, this applies only on the weekend, so this is an ideal opportunity for the early teams to get out and enjoy that venue, located just ten miles from Key West Harbor. (Continuetopage10)

Meanwhile, Thursday is the largest one-day group for FPC, with close to 140 teams participating and multiple departure locations from Boca Raton to Miami on the Atlantic coast, while another dozen teams depart from Fort Myers. The lunch stops can be challenging with this many boats, but FPC has spent years fine-tuning these details, and now there are at least six scheduled lunch stopovers on route to Key West, reserved exclusively for FPC attendees. Thursday is also opening day for the Key West Powerboat Village at the Conch Republic Seafood Co, featuring an amazing in-water boat show at the Sponsor dock, FPC souvenir apparel tent, and two large parking lots stuffed with performance marine displays from FPC’s top sponsoring organizations.

Friday: With well over two hundred FPC teams and close to fifteen hundred participants now settled in Key West for the weekend, RWO returns to its agenda with the second series of races, commencing at 10am in Key West Harbor. FPC attendees have many options on how to best enjoy the day, and we always suggest that the hard-core fans get out

on their boats for that up-close experience, but that same experience can be had from many waterfront venues along Front St. The good news is that most of the FPC headquarter hotels, including the Ocean Key House, Pier House and Hyatt Centric, are all located on this very waterfront, providing many of our FPC guests with front row seats to the race from their hotel balconies or hotel-managed venues on the deck or beach on site. So, whether you’re eager to get back on the water for a spectator raftup, or you would rather sit back in a lounge chair with a frozen drink in your hand, many options are available!

Friday for FPC is Sponsor Appreciation Day, and a two-hour window is dedicated to sponsor presentations on the FPC event stage. For the 2025 event, the traditional Key West Body Painting Expo returned to the agenda, with organizers moving it to Friday evening. FPC tries to wrap up our formal entertainment activities by Friday at about 9PM, due to the heavy draw of the RWO Duval St party on Friday around the same time. (Continuetopage12)

Saturday: With no formal racing agenda, the Key West harbor remains open and it’s the ideal day for FPC aerial photo sessions and a festive rendezvous at Woman Key. Inclement weather and windy conditions can make or break these activities, but for 2025 the weather gods blessed the event and by 11am the FPC chopper team was feverishly chasing down boats on the south side of the island. As these a series of photo flights continued through the day, more and more FPC crews hit the waterways for the short ride out to Woman Key. By mid-afternoon, well over 150 boats and yachts of all descriptions, enjoyed a safe anchorage off the beaches of Woman Key, and the FPC media team gathered thousands of images and fabulous video content, including the Midnight Express group shot! (see p.58)

Saturday evening: The FPC Powerboat teams re-convened at the Conch Republic Seafood event headquarters, for the final round of poker hands, President’s Choice Awards, and wonderful dining at the privately reserved venue. By about 10pm the poker cards had been played out, and a total of five winning teams were recognized on stage and awarded fabulous prizes!

Sunday Sunday Sunday!!! That’s right, it’s the big RACE DAY! RWO takes center stage for this major race-day event, which is the conclusion of the 3-race series, and where the champions of each class are ultimately determined. For the FPC crews, this is when the return-home departures begin, as a number of teams pull lines and get out of the Key West Harbor before the 930am harbor closing. About two thirds of the remaining teams stay in town on Sunday to enjoy the championship races, some from balconies and beaches, some from their own boats in one of the spectator fleets. Ultimately, there’s plenty of great locations for viewing. Later

Sunday, as the races concluded, it was apparent that most of the Powerboat village vendors and sponsors had packed up their displays, many reporting that Thursday through Saturday traffic levels were fabulous, producing significant sales.

Monday: FPC departures began as scheduled at 10am, although numerous boats were seen departing Key West harbor as early as 8am with subsequent waves of small groups throughout the morning. The northwest winds provided very calm sea conditions along the Atlantic coastal route, with many teams preferring this course vs the normally protected Florida Bay waters. As the FPC program wound down, with hundreds of participants making their homebound flights from various airports, so too were the RWO racing teams, as they loaded the boats and headed home.

Editors Note: As the author of this article and President of the club, I have always found it fascinating that despite the fact that two organizations, FPC and RWO, operate events that are quite different in scope and purpose, yet they somehow manage to complement each other so naturally. The outcome has a far-reaching scope, as it generates a tremendous result for participants, crews, spectators, sponsors, hotels, restaurants, marinas, and countless other business owners from Miami to Key West. But at the very core of this, and the pulse that keeps it alive, is the passion shared by every boat owner. Whether you’re a poker run enthusiast who has enjoyed the sport for decades with numerous boats, or a powerboat race team owner who thrives on adrenaline and white-knuckled racing, we all love our powerboating lifestyles, and that is what brings us to Key West year after year.

Stu Jones

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT:

Jeremy Porter | IN | Team FORMULA | 47' Formula

With Jeremy Porter at the helm, Formula owners rode along on this factory-sponsored Formula 457CCS, which performed flawlessly with a quad set of Mercury V12-600's. As a third generation Porter family member, Jeremy raved about the new model's performance and handling, and provided kind words about the run. "As one of the premier boating events in Florida, we feel it is important to show our Formula boats and product to the next generation of boaters!"

FROM COVERAGE TO CAPITAL

FROM COVERAGE TO CAPITAL

We make boating ownership simple. Insurance, finance and expert guidance tailored to your marine lifestyle.

We make boating ownership simple. Insurance, finance and expert guidance tailored to your marine lifestyle.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Casey Hill | WV | Team YEP | 44' DCB

Casey Hill and Shawne Monk attended the Key West event with FPC for the very first time, with this very unique, one-of-one 44' DCB. Not only is this the first DCB open bow model we've ever seen on a club event, it's the Mercury Racing 1550's that set the WOW factor to 10! In their media bio sent in after the run, they admitted running offshore most of the way to Key West, saying, "We got the Hell beat out of us!"

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Glen Winters | MD | Team BAD KITTY | 36' Statement

Key West was Glen's first FPC event, and he shared in his media bio the 36' Statement with 450R's was a big step away from his last big-power 36 Skater! "What a trip, from start to finish!" were his opening comments, but he was quick to also thank his crew. "The trip was a team effort! Jon and I flew into Miami, while Ward, Howy and Jimmy hauled my boat 1,100 miles from Maryland down to Grove Harbour Marina. Couldn't ask for a better crew- Huge thanks to the guys for making it happen!"

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: Anthony Caruso | NY | Team PIPE DREAMS AND PROPERTIES | 29' Baja

It was a first time for Anthony and his crew on the Key West event, trailering the Baja all the way from New York City. The crew enjoyed meeting other participants and seeing all the awesome boats.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Thomas & Andrea Anselmi | NJ | Team NECESSARY EVIL | 38' Donzi

A 25-year member with FPC, Tom won his first FPC voucher at the Atlantic City Poker Run in 2001. Back then it was a 22' Donzi classic, and he later purchased his 38 ZRC directly from the Donzi factory in 2007, completing an interior update and repower over recent years. Tom enjoyed the ride down, saying " We had a great run down on Wednesday with some fast water conditions inside and big & sporty water offshore south of the 7-mile bridge."

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Rick Riggle | OH | Team SMOKIN | 42' Cigarette

Rick has attended the Key West event numerous times, sharing the duties between his Cigarette 42X, or his Nor-Tech 452 center console. He certainly puts on his game face when he drives the Cigarette, delivering amazing money shots every time. To illustrate this, be sure to see the 2026 FPC wall calendar on the November page, where another amazing 42X pic from Key West was published!

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Chris Sticha | NV | Team DIRTY MONEY | 43' MTI

It amazes us at FPC on how far members will travel to attend the Key West event. Chris Sticha stated "We came all the way from Las Vegas, we've trailered out here for the past 4-5 years! Just an amazing event and what can't be fun about boating in the Keys?"

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Paddy Sullivan | MD | Team CODE BLUE | 38' Donzi

When Paddy first attended Key West in 2007, he was riding with FPC member David Tievy, on the 48' Fountain, Team Spec Ops. Then it all changed for Paddy, as he explains, "After that I was hooked. I started Team CODE BLUE when I bought the Donzi, and this just made a larger TEAM for both of us!"

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Mark & Nancy Tuck | VA | Team TIMBERCAT | 42' Performance Powerboats

Mark and Nancy have a long history with attending the Key West event, and more recently, they have taken a liking to cat life, owning a number of models and acquiring this Performance 42' just recently. Mark shared, "It's a new boat for us, and we're super happy with it." For this Virginia couple, the highlights are about the Key West experience, saying "Nancy and I have been doing this run for many years. Every time we meet new people that become lifelong friends". Amen

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

David Ciofu | MI | Team BLUE THUNDER | 34' Nor-Tech

It was a family affair for the Ciofu's who travelled all the way from Michigan to attend. David explained," I had my wife Dawn and daughters Taylor and Skylar along, and we made the trip from Algonac MI" So what made this Michigan family travel so far to attend? David continued, "I have done the run before with Howard Beindit on TATONKA ( 41 Apache). It was always a dream to bring my own boat down. I turned 50 this year and decided, Why Not?"

The crew is looking forward to returning for the 2026 event.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Pat & Ashley Santa Maria | MA | Team KONG | 50' Skater

The Key West run was a repeat for Team KONG, but not with the current owners. Kong isn't your everyday Skater, as veteran FPC member Patsy shared. " It's a one of a kind movie-themed boat." But it took Kong to get the Santa Maria's back in the drivers seat after a long break, as Patsy explained."We've been out of the game for twelve years and this is the biggest event!"

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Brian Murray | NJ | Team HEAVY HAULIN' | 44' MTI

In his first Key West adventure in 2024, Brian and crew attended in a 43' Midnight Express. But it was a big switch in 2025, and the HEAVY HAULIN crew attended in a brand new MTI 440X. Brian doesn't mix words when he explained his reasons for coming back. "Its simple! The People, the Races, the Boats! "

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Greg & Barbara Musilek | FL | Team THE COLOR OF MONEY | 37' Active Thunder

Trailering from nearby St. Petersburg FL, the Musilek's attended in their Active Thunder which they claim has a colorful past with several owners. It was their first Key West Run, and Greg shared," We had the Key West Poker Run on our bucket list since 2006 when we bought our first Active Thunder. Now the Keys are checked off and the Bahamas are next on our list!"

Greg Bent | LA | Team SENGO | 45' Nor-Tech

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Aaron Meyering | MI | Team WHITE LIGHTNING | 42' Fountain

Another first-timer on Key West, Aaron and crew trailered this 42' Fountain over 1400 miles from Holland, MI to attend, after recommendations from family and friends. Aaron shared event highlights, saying," Gilberts was a great stop, and we had a lot of fun at Ricks in Key West." Like so many others, he agrees that the best thing about powerboating is, "The friends you make along the way."

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: Joseph Castellana JR | NY | Team AWESOME | 38' Skater

There is certainly a long archive of previous registrations over the years for the Castellana family. It was Joe Jr's father who started the ball rolling almost two decades earlier, attending the Key West run in his 50' Skater. But Joseph Jr. has carried the family torch proudly attending at least three FPC events annually, including the Miami Run, Tampa Bay and Key West. A man of few words, Joe Jr. shared in his media bio, "It was great weather this year!"

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT:

Mark & Eileen Fischer | FL | Team DEEP IMPACT | Deep Impact 499 Sport

It might be impossible to track how many different boats Mark & Eileen Fischer have registered for the Key West run every year, since they began attending events in around 2001. But one thing is certain, that for the last thirteen years, it has been in a Deep Impact model. That was when Mark purchased the brand, along with Blackwater and Ocean Hawk. Times have changed, the company has evolved, and now the new Deep Impact 499 and the 449 models have taken center stage for the Key West 2025 event, and Deep Impact Custom Boats now offers an exciting 4-model lineup.

Wednesday Run- Gilberts Lunch

Located along the shoreline of Jewfish Creek in Key Largo, Gilberts Resort is a dominant landmark along this narrow waterway which tends to be recognized as the boaters gateway to the Keys for the protected ICW route. It certainly helps that their main dock extends 450 feet in length, and combined with ten slips and a large back basin, organizers generally have no issue accommodating up to seventy or more boats for one lunch stop.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Andrew Rocco | NH | Team TIME CONSCIOUS | 39' MTI

"Rocco" as we know him, has been an avid performance boater for years, attending the Key West event dozens of times, explaining his many reasons. "Key West Poker Run is my favorite event, and I've been going since 1999. It's a great run and Key West is this cool tropical island yet you're still in the U.S! We've made so many good friends through the years in the club!"

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

John Stella | NY | Team THE WOLF | 39' Nor-Tech

The Stella family has participated in many runs over the years, but Key West is always among their favorites. The last two boats have been Nor-Tech 390 sports, which seems to be the ideal platform for the Long Island natives. As Tyler explained in the media bio, "We love this 2024 Nor-Tech 390 Sport. It's got quad 400R's....we built it ourselves."

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Cody & Veronica Lovins | TX | Team LOVIN' THIS | 44' MTI

This Texas couple joined the Florida Powerboat Club more than a decade ago, and slipped away from the scene for a number of years. They had a love affair with Nor-Tech models up to the 500 Sport, but more recently they decided to enjoy some cat play. Their current ride is this MTI 440X, which according to Cody has some cool features literally, sharing in his media bio, "It's got a 10K BTU AC system and a built in Yeti cooler!"

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT:

Bill Raisbeck | MN | Team Nor-Tech Hi Performance | 46' Flyer

With the Nor-Tech roster dominated by 390 Sport models and a handful of cats, this 46' Flyer, powered by quint Mercury Racing 500R's stood out in the fleet. Bill Raisbeck and his father Dave Raisbeck, have been avid participants on the Key West event for many years.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: David LaVie | LA | Team REEL ESCAPE 2 | 35' Statement!

Hailing from New Orleans, David and his crew have been enjoying the Key West run since 2018, primarily in Sunsation center console models. He just recently acquired this Statement 38', powered by triple Mercury Racing 500R's. In his media bio David shared, " It was my first time in this new Statement, and the run down from Miami through the Keys is my favorite part of the event."

Editors Note: David, I couldn't agree more...What's not to like?!

Craig Blankenship | MI | Team WASTED SPERM | 35' Statement!

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Nick & Kimberly Eklund | MD | Team ALTER EGO | 41' Velocit

N ick & Kimberly decided to keep their 41 Velocity when their 4-year old daughter fell in love with the boat. Dad soon repowered from Ilmors to Merc 700SCi plus new paint & interior. Trailering 1100 miles from Maryland, Nick recalls their experience . "It was our first time running the boat in over two years since the refit! Our first FPC event, and running the mangroves and ocean was a big highlight!"

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Mat C. Raymond III | NC | Team MISS GRACE | 48' Fountain

The amazing Key West attendance record for Mat Raymond and his crew extends 27 years and has grown in numbers to a small fleet of boats from their home state of NC. They make it a family affair, as Mat stated, “It was the first time we brought both of our kids. My son Mat IV and his friends ran 38 Fountain courtesy of Marker 17 Marine, and my daughter Emmie brought three of her friends. It was forced family fun!!”

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Eric Lemoine | FL | Team VISION THING | 28' Brabus

Eric & crew got their teeth cut with FPC by attending the Tampa Run with his Ferrari-red Midnight 43. But having a home in the lower Keys forced Eric to add the 28’ Brabus Shadow 500 to his fleet, which he says fits the Keys lifestyle perfectly! He added, “The hurricane in 2024 was rough, and my crew plus several others were forced to attend that year by car, instead of using the boat. This year’s FPC Key West was easy! It’s the Crown Jewel of the FPC calendar!”

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Dominick & Danielle Landriscina | FL | Team DOUBLE D | 43' Midnight Express

Making a recent zip code change from NJ to Florida, this couple are part of a loyal group of Midnight Express owners who rally together at FPC events and show strong representation at summer events from Maryland to Massachusetts! For Dominick, the Key West highlights focused on the Saturday fun, saying “I would say it was the Epic Midnight synchronized photo shoot with the chopper, then the music raftup at Woman Key, was one for the books!”

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Dominick & Danielle Landriscina | FL | Team DOUBLE D | 43' Midnight Express

After running FPC events in a 38’ Fountain and later a 38’ Cigarette, Mike decided a center console was a better fit for his Florida adventures and acquired an early-gen 2013 Deep Impact. Trailering 1500 miles from Missouri, Mike elected to make this a guys trip and shared in his media bio his favorite aspect of powerboating. “It brings family and friends together, and I especially like watching the expression on my friends who are doing this event for the very first time!”

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Randy Cochran | SC | Team PURE BADNESS | 52' MTI

It was big step for Randy to jump from a Fountain Lightning to an monstrous cat with some serious power, but he make the move, sharing, “She’s capable of speeds at 185mph plus, has full canopy with AC and an amazing Visual Imagination paint job!” Agreeably, with 1350/1550 Mercury Racing dual-cal QC4 powerplants, it lives up to his name, PURE BADNESS!

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Aaron Aber | OH | Team HAUL "N" WAVES | 32' Sunsation

Like many FPC members, Aaron mixes his boating lifestyle between his home in Ohio and Cape Coral FL, which is where he started this run, making the trek across Lake Okeechobee before meeting up a Grove Harbour. He seems quite happy with his 2025 Sunsation 32 CCX, and for his favorite thing about powerboating he shared," The freedom that being on the water gives you...and BIKINIS of course!" Now there's a guy with his priorities in line!

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: Don House | KY | Team GOV’T SUBSIDY | 41' Cigarette

Don has a great record of attending several FPC events over the last two decades. Going to a CC was a big change from a Gladiator and 42X, as he commented, “It’s my 2nd year in the 41’ Nighthawk and I love it, but I still miss the sound of big block engines in the performance V-bottoms!” Editor’s Note: Ok Don, just follow Stu around in the Flight 1130 and you’ll get all the noise you need to quench that thirst!

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Mike Francisco | IL | Team THUNDER STRUCK | 38' Formula

Mike joined the ranks of the 1000-mile club by trailering his 38’ Formula over 1,600 miles to attend the Key West event! He commented on the great helicopter footage for the run and explained what drew him to drive so far to return, sharing, “We attend for the fun, and we really don’t have many poker runs around us in Illinois. I love Key West, and this event is so well done, it worth making the long trip!”

Having some fun with the MIDNIGHT MOB!

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT:

Eric & Hagan Glaser | FL | Team MIDNIGHT EXPRESS | 49' Midnight Express

With Saturday dedicated as a media day for the FPC aerial photo & video team, the helicopter was booked f or three consecutive flights to capture as much content as possible. The schedule commenced about 11am, as manufacturing and dealer sponsors were invited to assemble their loyal owners for group photo shoots on the south shoreline of Key West near the airport. This photo zone keeps the boats out of high traffic areas around Key West Harbor, and makes staging for the helicopter more convenient. While some sponsors still haven’t quite figured out how to take advantage of this fabulous promotional opportunity, Midnight Express rose to the occasion, arriving at the rendezvous location with a fleet of nearly twenty colorful Midnights, all prepared to create magic. The result was a series of video sequences and photos that blew up social media, and it gave Midnight Express the distinct honor of making the cover of the FPC 2026 wall calendar!

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

This 1971 Cigarette took top honors as Best Classic Boat, but the big photo highlight was running in a small pack of Cigarettes, including the Top Gun Flight 1130 and a brand-new Cigarette 41’ Nighthawk, driven by Scot Conrad. Bill shared, “This was our first time running to Key West, and the perfect finale after a long restoration project. It was time for Old Smuggler to be seen, and this is the way she was meant to be run!”

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: Tory Robson | MN | Team FLIGHT 1130 | 38' Cigarette

Never short on words, Tory shared insights about what is great about powerboating. "I love the military mission element of it. All the logistics to make it safe and super fun, with all equipment in tact. Plus the fun of taking friends on boat rides who may never have a chance to do so in their normal life!" But surely Tory's funniest comment in the media bio stands alone, as he stated, "It was my first time running the Flight 1130 to Key West. An honor and so much fun to have people think, I am Stu Jones."

Editors Note: Hmmmmm, this might get me in trouble some day!

ONEYEAR ANNIVERSARY

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

James & Tammy Johnson III | NJ | Team WHAT'S NEXT | 42' MTI

The Johnsons have been avid boaters with FPC for several years, attending in a variety of boats from mild (34 Fountain CC) to wild! (4-engine 4800HP Nor-Tech 52 Cat!) Their current ride of choice is a 42V MTI powered by quad Mercury Racing 500R. What keeps them coming back to Key West? James says, “It’s all the new friends and the old friends, we all combine to join this event yearly!”

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Anthony Piraino | NJ | Team CIGARETTE OF NEW JERSEY | 41' Cigarette Anthony from New Jersey stepped up his powerboating lifestyle by recently co-founding the new Cigarette of NJ dealership. He enjoyed his last 41SD model and decided to go the same direction on his second build, pulling all the stops! He shared in his bio,“The twin Mercury Racing 1100 set up pushes the boat over 100mph using half the fuel of (multi outboard boats) and leaves them all in the dust!” But Anthony’s big conquest in Key West was to finish on the podium, saying, “We placed 5th in 2024 Key West poker hands, and wanted to come back to get first place, and WE WON!”

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Joe Spoloric | SC | Team HI MAINTENANCE | 40' Nor-Tech

While Joe has a record of unique entries on the Key West event, including a Manitou tritoon powered with 450Rs, for 2025 he took it to the next level, registering his Nor-Tech 4000 cat powered by Merc 1350’s. Plus, he registered to race his Doug Wright cat in the RWO Factory Stock Class. Somehow he pulled it off, attending the Thursday FPC run, and competing in all three race days, placing fourth overall. Editor’s note: See this boat on the FPC 2026 calendar October page.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Bryan & Tracy Tilghman | SC | Team PART OF IT | 43' Midnight Express

Taking delivery of their brand new Midnight 43’ just days before the Key West run, the Tilghman’s were primed and ready Key West, sharing, “Powerboating is all about good times with great people, and Key West is one of the best runs of the year!” Their son Case played a big role in designing the new 2026 Solstice, which is dressed in bright teal!

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Michael & Nicole Lund | MA | Team SCREAMING SEAGULLS | 44' Outerlimits

The Lunds took some time away from the Florida circuit for a few years, but stayed busy with their Fall River, Mass-based Borden Light Marina, hosting a poker run event every August. After replacing their previous OL with a new 44’ Outerlimits Limited, it was time to play again, and we enjoyed having them back in Team SCREAMING SEAGULLS, named after their waterfront restaurant, The Tipsy Seagull.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: Fred Kiekhaefer | CO | Team NOR-TECH | 39' Nor-Tech

As the former head of Mercury Racing, it’s no wonder Fred still has a passion for performance boating even in his retirement. And his Nor-Tech 3900 Supervee isn’t exactly a factory stock boat, as he explains. “The 39SV was commissioned as a test boat for a new drive system that I was developing, but sadly I killed the project when the market shifted to outboards! John Pompi rigged it with the triple 500R’s, so it’s light and fast!” Editor’s Note: Fred said he attended Key West twice but forgot to mention his ride to Key West with Stu on the Nor-Tech 39SV King of Clubs…that was back in 2008!

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Stephen Barker | NY | Team X-FACTOR | 42' Cigarette

Showing no signs of letting up, Stephen has made Key West an annual run, for his Cigarette 42X, powered by Mercury Racing 1100's. But he got his start on the Key West event in a Nor-Tech 4300 more than a decade ago, before buying the 42X. He shared in his bio, "It's my first Cigarette I've ever owned. I'm very happy! " Like many others when asked what is their favorite thing about powerboating, Stephen shared, "It's the people you meet, and the different destinations!"

WOMAN KEY

Once upon a time, FPC members discovered the pristine beaches along Boca Grande Key, just ten miles outside of Key West Harbor, in the heart of the Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuge. Throughout the next fifteen years, visits there were more frequent and the boat party grew to hundreds of boats, and the sanctuary officials decided to ban the use of this beach after the November 2011 event. Woman Key was

the next best option, and wildlife officials gave boaters the green light to enjoy the peaceful setting as long as the visitors stayed clear of the shoreline, and did not set foot on the beach.

With the light winds and warm temperatures during the 2025 event, hundreds of Key West participants enjoyed a fabulous rendezvous party for the Saturday Fun Run.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Frank Scheelen | GERMANY | Team TOP FUN | 36' Nor-Tech Supercat

It won't come as a surprise to many participants that Frank has traveled trans-Atlantic from Germany to Florida countless times for FPC events, winning him the President Choice award for Farthest Travel, more times than any other team. Joined by his girlfriend Aysel, Frank summed up the Key West 2025 with just a few words, " Best event ever!!!"

PLATINUM MEMBERSHIP

• Access to all FPC events and parties.

• Powerboating Video. (Dozens of titles to choose.)

• Powerboating in Paradise Magazine subscription.

• Embroidered Club T-shirt in your choice of colors.

• Access to all Membership discount programs.

PLUS:

• Premium mens OGIO club polo shirt.

• Premium Concierge Services

• Priority booking status for rooms and dockage on all FPC Events.

• Marina and marine service referrals for your powerboat.

• Nautical assistance to a variety of marine resorts and boating destinations.

• Planning and hotel/slip reservations for your Florida boating weekends.

$499.00/year*

GOLD MEMBERSHIP

Membership suggested for married couples Includes all of the Standard Membership benefits

PLUS:

• Second membership for spouse/partner included

• Premium mens OGIO Club Polo Shirt.

• Premium womens OGIO Ladies Tank Top

$399.00/year*

STANDARD MEMBERSHIP

Membership Includes:

• Access to all FPC events and parties.

• Powerboating Video. (Dozens of titles to choose.)

• Powerboating in Paradise Magazine subscription.

• Embroidered Club T-shirt in your choice of colors.

• Access to all Membership discount programs.

$299.00/year*

COMMERCIAL MEMBERSHIP

Membership Includes:

• Discounted rates on FPC Magazine advertising

• Discounted rates on all web advertising/banner programs.

• Access to all FPC events and parties.

• Business listing on our website affiliate section.

• Business card introduction Ad in FPC magazine.

Commercial Members also have the opportunity to run promotions and discounts through FPC events.

$399.00/year*

SOCIAL MEMBERSHIP

Membership Includes:

• Club T-shirt in your choice of colors.

• Powerboating in Paradise Magazine subscription.

• Access to FPC parties

• Discounted Boat Show tickets.

$99.00/year*

KEY WEST POWERBOAT WEEK: SPONSOR DOCK

As the size of the boats increases year after year, FPC organizers meet the challenges of docking needs at many event venues. But magically, it all comes together at the Conch Republic Seafood sponsor docks every year, and the 2025 in-water showcase did not disappoint, with an amazing display of high-performance hardware. With over twenty boats in attendance, and at least six models exceeding fifty feet in length, the rafting scenario was a jumbo jig-saw puzzle! Special thanks to the entire team at Conch Republic Seafood for once again providing an amazing event venue, and especially for the spectacular FPC Welcome banner placed on the restaurant for all to see!

KEY WEST POWERBOAT VILLAGE: CONCH REPUBLIC SEAFOOD CO.

Platinum Powerboats 42 Cat, winning Best Catamaran for this new

Key West Body Painting Expo

For anyone who has visited Key West on a regular basis, it soon becomes apparent that body painting is a popular form of expression by many locals and visitors alike. There’s just something special about the magical Key West vibe that drops inhibitions (and clothing) in the name of freedom and artistic expression, and we applaud that in every way! Hence, the popularity of the Key West Body Painting Expo, which has continued for several years. For this year’s event organizers moved it from Thursday to Friday evening at the Conch Republic Seafood Company. Special thanks to local painters Hector and Meike for bringing their craft, and to the FPC staff who made up the all-female panel of judges!

Sponsor Appreciation Awards

The high-level experience that participants enjoy when they attend the Key West Powerboat Week event is a product of time, plenty of practice and the knowledge of event management that the FPC team has acquired over the years. But paramount to the success for FPC when it comes to producing large-scale events like Key West is the financial support and the resources provided by our supporting sponsors. These relationships between FPC and leading marine trade sponsors date back over two decades for our leading supporters like Nor-Tech Hi Performance, Cigarette Racing Team, Deep Impact Custom Boats, Midnight Express, Myco Trailers and Mercury Racing, to name just a few. There’s no better time or place to recognize these companies and the individuals behind them than our Friday night Sponsor Appreciation Awards ceremony, and we thank those who made a point of being there for this special occasion.

Saturday Night Awards

The festivities at the Key West Poker Run Village continue for three solid days, with Saturday representing the biggest of the three evenings! The FPC teams re-convened for one last time at the Conch Republic Seafood event headquarters, to play out their final round of poker hands, enjoy the President’s Choice Awards, and share dinner with their fellow members in Key West’s most popular restaurant! The FPC girls did an amazing job greeting guests, and managing the poker tables, and by 10pm the poker cards had been played out. Congratulations to the top five winning teams, who were recognized on stage and awarded fabulous prizes, sharing a $ 15,000 cash purse sponsored by Deep Impact Custom Boats and IHRA.

WINTER WARM UP !

Not many Americans can wrap their heads around the concept of spending a weekend of powerboating in the middle of January, but FPC members enjoyed the perfect dose of Powerboating in Paradise, kicking off Florida Powerboat Club's first event in 2026 in sunny Key Largo!

Story by: Stu Jones

If the Key West Powerboat Week or the Bahamas Poker Run were ranked by number of miles traveled over the duration of the event, the hundreds of miles logged would move them to the top of the charts when factoring in all FPC events over the course of the year. In sharp contrast, this would leave the Key Largo Winter Rendezvous right down near the bottom, considering Friday’s short forty-five-mile hop from Miami to the docks at Playa Largo Resort. Even when combined with one hundred miles of cruising for the Saturday Fun Run to Marathon, the event logs less than two hundred miles for most attendees, and this provides a pleasant bite-sized start to the new year! For the twenty-two registered teams and one-hundred registered attendees on board for the recent edition of this annual event, that mileage statistic was just about perfect. Of course, that outcome may have changed if the event fell just one week later, as late January temperatures in South Florida hit the record books with all-time lows in the mid-thirties Fahrenheit scale! To some degree, this makes this January escape to paradise somewhat of a weather crapshoot for attendees, and considering their snowbird migrations from hometowns in Canada, NY, NJ, Ohio, AR, IL, MA, and MO, we are guessing that most participants are

happy to take that gamble! And although this run was not a poker run format, everyone would agree that they produced a full hand of Aces on the weather front!

Kicking things off at FPC’s Miami headquarters, a.k.a. Grove Harbour Marina, where a number of boaters overnighted on the Thursday prior to departure, the group assembled as always on Friday morning to enjoy a dockside breakfast of bagels and egg sandwiches, before pointing the boats southbound, with the FPC chopper in pursuit. Many were pleased to see a new and improved Gilberts Resort, as the property owner Elina Wiesberg had just completed upgrades, including a new tiki hut adjacent to the docks, plus colorful new chairs, tables, and bar stools throughout the property. But a few captains noticed the biggest upgrade that was boater friendly, the installation of new piling fenders throughout the marina, taking the edge off rafting woes and the likelihood of hull sides coming in contact with metal studs were wearing through the pilings. Nor-tech owner Frank Gruelich was quick to point out, “HeyStu,thesenewdockfenderslookfantastic, this is a major improvement!” To which the author replied, “You’rewelcomeJoe,IpushedhardonthatprojectandElina washappytoopenhercheckbook.”

Now if FPC could just pressure the management at Playa Largo Resort on the same upgrades, it would be nice to see that marina get a little TLC, as we continue to visit on a least a few occasions every year.

After settling into the luxurious Playa Largo Resort, a Marriott Autograph Collection property, the group re-convened at the popular dockside bistro, Sol by the Sea, where Deep Impact Custom Boats sponsored a sunset cocktail hour. At 6pm and right on schedule the sun slipped away over the horizon, wrapping up an amazing day on the water, which logged a Key Largo high temperature at 82F, making Key Largo one of the warmest places in the nation on that late January day. Continuing into the weekend, the only way it could get any better, is if we had another 80F day, and…..we did! Actually,

SJ

it clocked in at 82.5F, and it was the most amazing day ever, with our fun run to Island Fish Company in Marathon, and dinner outing later with our friends Mark & Eileen Fischer to one of Key Largo’s best restaurants, Lazy Lobster. Now for the sake of those who were snowbound and unable to attend, and at the risk of sounding a little boastful about our winter boating experiences with FPC, I will respectfully end on this high note.

OurwinterboatingseasoncontinueswithourFebruaryHawks Cayeventandkickingoffspring2026,wereturntoNaples and follow that with our 16th Annual Tampa Bay Poker Run on the second weekend of April. Register now by calling 954-545-1414 or email us atadmin@flpowerboat.com for more information.

SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT:

Mark & Eileen Fischer | FL | Team DEEP IMPACT | New 499 #3

Riding with Mark Fischer on the newest Deep Impact 499 can spoil a person. Powered by (6) Mercury 425 V10's, the performance is outstanding and there is enough room on board to accommodate twelve or more guests comfortably! Making this our official boat for the Winter Run was an easy decision!

Grove Harbour Marina provided an excellent launch pad for the Winter Run, with many guests staying overnight to enjoy the dining and entertainment options in Coconut

thanks to the entire Grove Harbour team for the amazing customer service and support!

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: Ed Stella | NJ | Team HIGH MAINTENANCE | 41' Cigarette

As a member of a small tribe of NJ natives who make powerboating their passion, Ed Stella is fast becoming a loyal supporter with FPC, attending not only the Winter Run over recent years, but he also seems to favor the Miami Run in February ( Hawks Cay Rendezvous) as well as the Key West Powerboat Week in the Fall. In the summer months he enjoys the Jersey shore, and occasionally stretches the legs on his pristine 41 Apache!

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: Gino & Renea Gargiulo | FL | Team SPOOLED UP | 52' MTI

When you get a chance to ride on a 52' MTI, you take it! After the casual lunch stop at Gilberts it was only another ten miles to the destination at Playa Largo Resort, and with only four seats taken by Gino, Renea and their two daughters, Stu suggested he take the navigator seat. Gino replied, "Sure that's perfect because I've never been to Playa Largo, I could never find my way there!"

For this KY couple it was a bit of a (Florida) home-coming after a short break from the

a five year break since our last FPC

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Peter Bilicki & Amanda Winters | FL | Team THAT'S WRIGHT | 32' Doug Wright

After purchasing this Doug Wright from another FPC member in Panama City, Peter performed a full refit on the cat with new upholstery, upgraded stereo, new SeaDek along with new lower units on the Merc 400R's. It was their first FPC run and Peter shared their highlights, saying, "Everyone was so nice and so much fun to hang out with. The event was well organized with plenty of group activities, as well as some nice down time to just relax at the resort."

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Joe & Jen Greulich | OH | Team ENDLESS SUMMER | 39' Nor-Tech

This Ohio couple have taken the powerboating lifestyle to a whole new level, running their second Nor-Tech on multiple events with FPC, an hitting the poker run circuit in the summer months. Somehow the Winter Run was the only event they hadn't attended, and they shared the highlights."This was our first time on this run and we absolutely loved it! It was the perfect size to be able to meet new friends and the Playa Largo resort was fantastic! Living in the Cleveland area, it was great to get away from the snow this weekend!"

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Tory Robson | MN | Team BE FIRST | 39' Cigarette

Tory has displayed his intoxication with the Cigarette brand, and with powerboating in general, by owning several boats over the last two decades, many of them Cigarettes. But with his current 39' Top Gun refit project still underway, it was nice to have the option to use the FPC 38' Top Gun, to escape the cold winter at home. He explained, "I came from Minnesota where it was 18 degrees below zero... that's a 100 degree temperature difference!"

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Jason & Kami Paris | MO | Team AGAINST HER BETTER JUDGEMENT | 35 AMP

It was two firsts for the Paris crew, as they just took delivery of their new AMP 333 on the Friday morning before the event departure, and their first-ever FPC run! Many would say this was a giant leap of faith to cut it this close with a new boat, but the outcome was fantastic for everyone as Jason shared, "This was absolutely the best way to pick up a new boat on Friday morning at the AMP factory, and then take it on the FPC Winter Run! Getting away from eight inches of snow and subzero temps in Missouri was also a great idea!" Editor's note: Congratulations to the Paris Family as well as fellow members and AMP owners Rob & Rhonda Diehl from NY for joining FPC. These were the first two new Pompano Beach built AMP center consoles to attend an FPC event!

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:

Frank & Diana Washart | NJ | Team AMERICAN MUSCLE | 46' Cigarette

When Frank purchased a 34 Fountain CC from his Jersey friend James Johnson, that may have started the ball rolling. Not long afterwards, he stumbled upon the 2006 American Muscle II, a themed one-off Cigarette 46' that was part of a 3-boat series, built by then company owner Skip Braver to showcase the brand's flagship models. The Winter Run was Frank's first shakedown with FPC and the 20-year classic ran flawlessly. Editor's Note: The Winter Run was a homecoming for American Muscle II, which was purchased at the 2006 Miami Boat Show by FPC members Tony & Mona Mondazze, who remain active with FPC to this day.

FPC MEMBERSHIP MARKETPLACE

Florida Powerboat Club offers a “Commercial Member” program which is designed for individuals or companies that are engaged in some form of commerce that relates to the marine industry. In many cases these members provide special discounts and offers to FPC members, so we invite you to contact them and keep your boating-related needs within the FPC family.

ARTHUR FUSCO

American Marine Performance | 954-852-5252 americanmarineperformance.com arthur@americanmarineperformance.com, claire@americanmarineperformance.com

601 NW 12th Ave | Pompano Beach | FL 33069

ALAN HOLLEY

Atlantic Marine | 504-296-2240 atlanticmarinebk.net | alanholley1@gmail.com

103 HWY 90 | Waveland | MS 39576

ED CHAMPION

Big Thunder Marine | 402-290-8070 bigthundermarine.com | Ed@bigthundermarine.com 3401 Bagnell Dam Blvd | Lake Ozark | MO 65049

RICHARD GARCIA

Boat Depot | 305-587-3094 boatdepotonline.com | boatdepot@live.com

101500 Overseas HWY | Key Largo | FL 33037

JAYE & DONNA WATSON

Card Payment Solutions | 843-495-3484 cardpaymentsolutions.com | jaye@cardpaymentsolutions.com

9838 Bellasera Circle | Myrtle Beach | SC 29579

RANDY GARCIGA

Cobra Power | 305- 893-5018 cobrapower.com | albert@cobrapower.com 13353 NE 17th Ave. | North Miami | FL 33181

CHRISTOPHER & BETHANY BEAUDRY

CMB Tuning | 904 239-9751 cmbperformancediesel.com | CmbTuning@outlook.com 2595 Cholerton Lane | Hilliard | FL 32046

KRUIS RETHERFORD

Columbia Powersports Sup | 270-300-3164 ashley@glasstream.com 3122 Oxmoor Industrial Blvd | Columbia | AL 36303

TONY CHIARAMONTE

DCB Performance Marine | 951-757-4159 dcbperformancemarine.com| tonyc@dcbperformancemarine.com

1035 E Riverview Drive | Phoenix | AZ 85034

RAYMOND / PETER ROBERTS

Double R Performance | 705-487-7575

doublerperformance.com raymond@doublerperformance.com, peter@doublerperformance.com

50 Line 9 N, Oro-Medonte | Ontario L0L 1T0

AARON ERSKINE

Erskine Benefits LLC | 850-501-3573 aaron@erskinebenefits.com

5584 Hannah Street | Milton | FL 32570

STEVE SMARSH

HydraFoam | 586-381-3393 hydra-foam.com | steve@hydra-foam.com

49746 Leona Drive | Chesterfield | MI 48051

JOHN & DAWN CLARKE

Jaguar Powerboats LLC | 954-673-8961 jaguarpowerboats.com | dawn.clarke@jaguarpowerboats.com

1437 Cunningham Brickyard Rd. | Thomasville | NC 27360

GREG & JENNIFER CONNELL

Legend Marine Group | 214-676-6885 legendmarinegroup.com | greg@legendmarinegroup.com

1835 Forms Dr #100 | Carrollton | TX 75006

JULIAN MALDONADO

Manatee Marine Unlimited | 242-376-3066 manateemarineunlimited.com | Info@manateemarineunlimited.com 3806 Us Highway 41 N | Palmetto | FL 34221-9003

ANDY HOWITT

Marine 365 Inc | 920-737-3750 marine365.com | andy@marine365.com

780 Longtail Beach Road | Suamico | WI 54173

ANDY IMHOF

Maryland Offshore Marine | 571-623-2778 mdoffshore.com | info@mdoffshore.com

9615 Doctor Perry Road | Ijamsville | MD 21754

DANIEL BERNAT

Neptune Marine Detailing | 786-525-9857

danny@neptunemarinedetailing.com

10624 SW 129TH Terr | Miami | Fl 33176

CHRIS & ROBBIE HANNA

Palmetto Yacht Transport | 843-687-2932 palmettoyachtmanagement.com | chris@palmettoyachtmanagement.com

PO Box 31947 | Myrtle Beach | SC 29588

PAUL BOYDEN

Paul Boyden Customs | 850-356-5880 paulboyden.customs@yahoo.com

7880 Apollo Drive | Pensacola | Fl 32506

JOSEPH DEFUSCO

Pier-1 Marine | 860-883-6896 pier-1marine.com | joed@pier-1marine.com

4760 Taylor Road | Punta Gorda | FL 33950

ALBERT FRANKO

Powerboats | 646-785-0125 powerboatsus.com | albert@powerboatsus.com

1410 W 24th Street | Miami Beach | FL 33140

MATTHEW ROGERS

Rogers Bros. Detailing | 937-581-1056 rogersbros.detailing@gmail.com

517 Easter Lane | LaFollette | TN 37766

ANDREW GRANDE

ROCKWATER INSURANCE GROUP | 281-300-7349

rockwaterins.com | Agrande@rockwaterins.com

811 Farm To Market Road 1959 | Houston| TX 77034-5400

GIANLUCA STUPPINI

SEASMART Marine Hardware | 937-581-1056

seasmartus@gmail.com

533 NE Third Avenue | Fort Lauderdale | FL 33301

RENEE ST. LAWRENCE

SKYDEX Technologies, Inc. | 410-980-5301 skydex.com | rstlawrence@skydex.com

246 Moreau Ct. | Severna Park | MD 21146

BOB SCANLON

So Flo Yacht Charter | 518-361-6521 Otis2264@gmail.com

443 Hendricks Isle Slip 6 | Fort Lauderdale | FL 33301

CHRISTOPHER BURKE

South Florida Boat Center | 954-993-3268 boatcenterinc.com | burke@boatcenterinc.com

800 Old Griffin Rd | Dania Beach | FL 33004

STEPHEN MILES

Stephen Miles Design | 270-570-4442 propainter7970@yahoo.com

3854 S Griffith Ave | Owensboro | KY 42301

DEREK MOLLE

Underwater Fishlight | 941-391-5846

fishlight.com | info@fishlight.com

20400 Veterans Blvd.| Port Charlotte| FL 33954

MARK / KATE WILSON

Wilson Custom Marine | 772-287-8755 wilsoncustommarine.com | wilsoncc@yahoo.com

3250 Saint Lucie Blvd Suite A | Fort Pierce | FL 34946

2026 FLORIDA POWERBOAT CLUB EVENTS

JAN 23-25, 2026 | Key Largo Winter Rendezvous

Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Key Largo

FEB 11-15, 2026 | Miami International Boat Show

New location added for 2026: Collins Ave yacht show returns!

FEB 13, 2026 | FPC/ SOTW South Beach Bash | Presented by Nor-Tech Hi Performance Boats

FEB 19-22, 2026 | Hawks Cay Rendezvous, Duck Key FL(Formerly Miami Boat Show Poker Run)

MAR 20-22, 2026 | Naples Spring Rendezvous, Naples FL Hyatt House Naples.

APRIL 9-12, 2026 | 16th Annual Tampa Bay Powerboat Week: Downtown Tampa Tampa Convention Center- Westin Waterside & Tampa Marriott Water St.

MAY 8-10, 2026 | 7th Annual Orange Beach Powerboat Week The Wharf, Orange Beach

JUNE 3-10, 2026 | 35th Annual Bahamas Poker Run

Presented by Deep Impact Custom Boats | 7-day format with extended 2-days in Abacos

Depart Fort Lauderdale: Bimini, Nassau, Spanish Wells, Harbour Island (25 boat limit)

JUNE 18-21, 2026 | St. Augustine Summer Rendezvous

Historic St Augustine City Marina -This is a NEW EVENT!

JULY | SUMMER BREAK - NO EVENTS

AUG 5-14, 2026 | 2nd Annual- Nor-Tech Owners Bahamas Run

Presented by Nor-Tech Hi Performance Boats | Multiple Destinations: Bimini, Atlantis Paradise Island, Harbour Island, Hopetown Abaco

AUG 20-25, 2026 | Northern Bahamas Island Hop

Depart Fort Laud: West End, Port Lucaya, Hopetown- (25 boat limit)

SEPT 17-20, 2026 | 34th Annual Emerald Coast Boat Week

Three days of boating & events: Destin, Fort Walton Beach, Florida Panhandle

OCTOBER 2026 | No events planned in preparation for Key West Powerboat Week

NOV 4-9, 2026 | 34th Annual Key West Powerboat Week

Multiple venues & lodging options-Key West Powerboat Villaget

2026 FLORIDA Boat shows

Jan 15-18, 2026: St. Pete Boat Show, St. Petersburg Waterfront

Jan 16-18, 2026: Stuart Boat Show - Downtown Stuart on Lucie River

Feb 11-15, 2026: Miami International Boat Show - Multiple venues

Mar 25-29, 2026: Palm Beach Boat Show- Downtown WPB

April 17-19, 2026: Sarasota Boat Show- Sarasota Waterfro nt