Rowing bid receives presidential support

Sarasota County's bid to host the 2017 World Rowing Championship has the backing of President Barack Obama, according to a July 9 email exchange between Sarasota County commissioners.

The president will sign a letter to be sent to the International Federation of Rowing Association (known internationally as FISA) in support of the bid. The 10-day international rowing event is expected to bring about 42,000 visitors to the area and generate more than $10 million in economic impact, according to estimates from earlier presentations.

FISA will announce the host of the 2017 World Rowing Championship during this year's event in September.