Powerboat race organizers working to finalize event on Fort Myers Beach

Reporter: Gina Tomlinson Writer: Jack Lowenstein
Published: Updated:
Credit: via WINK News.

An event that has already battled obstacles before it has even begun is facing more rough waters.

Some people have raised concerns surrounding the bathroom situation at a boat race, forcing organizers to hold off on final plans for the water spectacle in Lee County.

With only a month to go, organizers for the Roar Offshore powerboat race on Fort Myers Beach are having trouble solidifying plans for the event.

When we first spoke to organizers bringing powerboat racing back to Southwest Florida, they told us they expect to have tens of thousands of people at the event.

MORE: Organizers look to bring powerboat race to Fort Myers Beach

”It’s a big deal because you can’t see it every place, you know,” said Berta Voelker who lives in Fort Myers Beach.

As the beach gears up for powerboat races, fans just hope organizers will be ready for the vast numbers expected for the turnout.

“If they don’t have those ducks in a row, they’re in trouble,” said Voelker.

Concerns over trash and lack of restrooms put a halt on finalization of the event at town council.

“I think that’s just some small glitches in the get-a-long,” said Voelker. “I’m hoping and they’ll get it together.”

The new plan includes portable toilets, added dumpsters and hundreds of volunteers.

“To pick up every single little cigarette butt, to beer cans, to whatever is left on the beach,” said Cindy Hill, Roar Offshore vice president.

There was also talk about a lack of sponsors, but the organizers of Roar Offshore said that was never the case. The organizers also said the paperwork is ready for the town council to sign off Monday.

And the Roar Offshore welcomes more sponsors and volunteers for its event.

“We’re over 100% for our sponsors,” said Roar Offshore President Tim Hill. “We’re looking for more sponsors because this a great marketing opportunity.”

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