Mote partners with Bird Key Yacht Club for the 2017 Sarasota Bay Cup
Bird Key Yacht Club officially opened its new state-of-the-art marina Oct. 22 with a MarinaFest, featuring bagpipers, singers and a champagne bottle smashed over the new docks. During the celebration, event chairman Bill Jacobs announced the return of the Sarasota Bay Cup, the longest running regatta on Sarasota Bay, and for the first time, the sailing competition will become a charitable regatta in support of Mote Marine Laboratory, a nonprofit marine research institution.
“Bird Key Yacht Club wished to create a new partnership with a charitable organization. Mote was first on our list,” said Jacobs. “The regatta combines sailing the waters of Sarasota Bay with the mission of Mote. Conservation and sustainable use of our oceans begins with research and education.”
First sailed in the early 1920s, explained Jacobs, the Cup was the premier yachting event for the next 30 years, ultimately resurrected and sponsored by Bird Key Yacht Club. Jacobs introduced Dr. Michael P. Crosby, President and CEO, of Mote, and welcomed him to the stage.
"Mote is honored to be named the first-ever charitable partner of this event," said Dr. Crosby. "We are pleased to participate in an event where everyone in our community has the opportunity to take advantage of our beautiful ocean, where Mote scientists conduct world-class marine research everyday. Mote is thankful to Bird Key Yacht Club for their partnership and investment through the historical Sarasota Bay Cup.”
The regatta will take place April 21-22, 2017.
The new marina will be 780 linear feet of new seawall; 48 boat slips; 18 boat lifts; a duel fuel system for both diesel and gas; Wi-Fi, cable TV and security systems; and a unique double kayak lift. The marina is now one of the most technically advanced facilities on the Gulf Coast. Upon inspection by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection the marina will be designated a “Clean Marina,” signaling the use of best marine management practices.
“We are thrilled to offer this newly renovated amenity to our present and future members,” said Lynn Smith, Commodore of the club. “Our location on Sarasota Bay, just across from the city, draws boaters from literally around the globe. Now visitors and members alike will have a world-class marina to enhance their experience in our beautiful region.”
About Bird Key Yacht Club
Bird Key Yacht Club traces its history to one of the most dazzling developments in Sarasota Bay. The club is on the site of the New Edzell Castle, the first mansion in Sarasota built with electric lights, steam heat and hot and cold running water. Today, the club offers equally desirable amenities: in addition to the marina, members enjoy Har Tru tennis courts, an Olympic sized swimming pool, a fitness facility, an award winning culinary program, newly constructed bocce ball courts, and recently announced plans to build Sarasota’s first pickleball facility. They enjoy privileges at both Laurel Oak and Sara Bay country clubs for golf and a social calendar of frequent and varied activities.