Racing isn’t the only thing going on during the world championships week in Key West. The Florida Powerboat Club’s signature event, the Key West Offshore Poker Run, is also taking place. The event takes participants from Miami to Key West through the Florida Keys. Checkpoints include Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon and Bahia Honda.
Pace boats will provide navigation through the winding backwaters of the Keys, allowing participants to enjoy the ride in more protected waters. They hit open waters for a 40-mile offshore run before entering Key West Harbor. The Key West Poker Run village will be event headquarters for the four days of the tournament, with daily entertainment and dining at the Conch Republic Seafood Company. There will also be daily powerboat excursions and fun runs so participants can enjoy their boats while exploring local waters.
New for 2016 is a choice of two departure venues. Participants can leave from North Miami Beach near Baker’s Haulover Inlet for a 180-mile run to Key West or from Grove Harbour Marina in Coconut Grove, Florida, for a 165-mile run.