SANCA president and CEO resigns

After seven years developing Nathan Benderson Park into a world class rowing facility, Paul Blackketter resigned Thursday as the Suncoast Aquatic Nature Center Associates president and CEO.

SANCA Board Chairman Bill Robinson said Blackketter wanted to pursue a career in consulting.

According to Robinson in a press release, Nathan Benderson Park as a world-class rowing venue would never have existed without Blackketter's vision. “His skills in project and venue development are enormous," Robinson said. "He’s also established a worldwide network of relationships and connections, and the idea of becoming a consultant is a natural fit for him. We are sincerely grateful for the contributions Paul has made during his tenure.”

Nathan Benderson Park will host the World Rowing Championships in 2017 and the World Masters Rowing Championships in 2018. In addition to winning the bids for these major sporting events, the Florida Sports Foundation named NBP the Sports Venue of the Year in 2015.

“I feel very grateful that I was given the opportunity to be part of such a significant and impactful project that will shape the Sarasota-Manatee community for years to come,” Blackketter said in a release.  “Creating the world-class rowing venue at NBP has been an incredible journey and something I will always hold near and dear to my heart. It’s time for me to pursue new avenues that will allow me continue to do what I love on a grander scale.” 

During the transition process, Blackketter has offered to make himself available full time through the 2016 fiscal year (September 30, 2016).