2017 World Rowing Championship Press Conference

Randy Benderson, president of Benderson Development, thanked Paul Blackketter for his persistence. “This is bigger than our dream was,” Benderson said.

Sarasota Commissioner Joe Barbetta recounted that the International Federation of Rowing Association’s congress said of the bid: “It was of sufficient high quality in every respect.”

Manatee County Commissioners Betsy Benac and Vanessa Baugh applauded the effort of SANCA, the non-profit group that made the bid.

Paul Blackketter, SANCA’s chief operating officer, said the real work has just begun as he begins to push to obtain fundraising to pay for amenities to the course.

Larry Bustle, the Manatee County Board of County Commission chairman, said he felt energized by the community’s support for the bid.

Paul Blackketter and Rep. Doug Holder exchanged gratitude.

Paul Blackketter and Nik Wallenda, the Sarasota wire-walker