Although portions of Clearwater, Fla., currently are still without power and substantial cleanup remains in progress in the wake of Hurricane Irma, Super Boat International has announced that its 2017 National Championships will happened as scheduled Sept. 29-Oct. 1 in the Florida Gulf Coast City. The organization released a brief statement on the upcoming event today.

Despite extensive damage done to the Clearwater, Fla., area by Hurricane Irma last weekend, the SBI National Championships will return to Clearwater at the end of the month, according to the organization. Photo courtesy/copyright Pete Boden/Shoot 2 Thrill Pix.

“There has been overwhelming demand and support from Clearwater and the local community to help get things back to normal and make sure the race still happens,” the release stated. “The situation is so fluid every hour of every day, this decision is not made lightly.

“Super Boat will work with their staff and teams to bring the best Championship event to Clearwater,” the release continued. “Our hearts go out to everyone affected and whose homes are destroyed or damaged, as well as the millions of people displaced and those still without power. The decision and situation are very difficult. Our teams want to help and show a unified force. And if the community wants our help by racing and giving a level of inspirationthen we are in. We have no idea if everyone will have power and we truly understand many things will not be normal, but our teams, families, and fans are ready to support Clearwater and the beach communities. Thank you for wanting us to be a part of your recovery efforts.”

“We are glad to hear that the area is ready to have us,” said Myrick Coil, the driver for the Performance Boat Center team, which currently is leading the Superboat-class national points chase. “We’re definitely looking forward to getting there to support the local economy, provide entertainment for the local out-of-town fans and go racing.”

The SBI World Championships are scheduled for November Nov. 5-12 in Key West. The organization has not yet made on announcement on any changes for that event.

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