A general surgeon in Key West, Fla., Dr. Bill Blass has been appointed medical director for the 2018 Super Boat International season. The news was announced today in a press release from the Key West-based offshore powerboat racing producer.

For the 2018 offshore racing season, Dr. Bill Blass will be Super Boat International’s medical director. Photo coutesy/copyright Pete Boden/Shoot 2 Thrill Pix.

Blass replaces Dr Vic Totfalusi, SBI’s medical director for the past six seasons, who recently resigned from the position. Blass currently is on staff at Lower Keys Medical Center and Surgery Center of Key West, as well as being a partner in the Key West Surgical Group, according to the release. He graduated from the University of Miami School of Medicine and was trained at University of Miami/Jackson Memorial.

Dr. Lou Pizano, who worked in SBI’s medical director position until 2011, endorsed the choice of Blass in the release.

“Dr. Blass is an outstanding physician and surgeon with expertise in treating a wide range of injuries and medical conditions,” he said. “He has a genuine loyalty to his patients and team members and will be a true asset for the SBI organization.”

“I am proud to announce Dr. Blass as the medical director,” said John Carbonell, the president of SBI, in the release. “We had the pleasure of working closely with Dr. Pizano for many years as the SBI Medical Director, and we have great respect on his confirmation of Dr. Blass’s appointment. Shawn Steinart, SBI rescue coordinator has put an excellent team together to serve the racers this year.”

Editor’s Note: The original version of this story incorrectly listed Drl Lou Pizano as SBI’s outgoing medical director. The text has been correted.

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