Key West as an end of season celebration.

MOBILEMERCMAN

Founding Member / Competitor
Since 1985 when I first witnessed the Worlds in Key West the trek down US 1 was been a much anticipated gathering. For me at first it was an adventure, in time it became a proving ground. In the end it has become a time to visit with life long friends. I have been fortunate to meet many like minded wonderful people racing. Some of them ran boats, some supported teams and boats, some took pix of boats while others came to witness the show of competition. I have and continue to share many stories of this week to come.

My days of competition has ended. I have missed many Key Wests in the last decade. The thrill of competition comes and goes but has mostly left me. I'm not as tough as I think I once was. The sport has evolved into something very different then it once was. What hasn't changed is the great gathering in the home of offshore. After all the stories, injuries, broken boats and parts and victories and Championships too. What I miss the most is seeing my friends and the social aspect of the Worlds.

It leaves me somewhat empty inside not to be sharing in the festivities this year.

To those who still go. CHEERS!

There is no better place to be in November.
 
I haven’t missed a KW Worlds since 2001 as a spectator. What puts a big smile on my face is when I run into many old friends from my days in MD from Full Tilt Marine and members of CBPBA. Remember watching you, Art and others racing down here. And of course my days out on the Mole with my daughter and Bobcat are what I look forward too the most.
 
I have only made it down a few times. Had a blast every time. It is always great to see everyone at Boyne Thunder, but I have so much going on, I don’t get much time to hang out. Key West has been great to hang with my boating friends without any responsibilities. Hope next year we can make it again.
 
Logistically, It's My toughest Race all Season...Yet the closest....:huh:

We've got a Small group of People that are always near the same spot on the Mole...If You make it down..Look for the only Person with a Ladder:biggrinjester:
 
If you walk out of Ricks and see Sloppy Joe's doors are closed you are likely one of the last few drunks on Duval.
 
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My buddies shared this image with me Friday night with the caption " You're missing in that photo. OMG....so good to see Art."

It was so nice to hear from them. And yes, I should be by their side. I will root whole heartily from home this year.

Sorry for the side view. If you click it shows correctly
 
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