Successful 2025 Season Drives the Englewood Beach Waterfest Return October 8th-11th, 2026

Englewood Beach, FL | November 12, 2025

Englewood Beach Waterfest, Inc. proudly announces the resounding success of the 2025 APBA Championship Offshore Powerboat Races, held October 9th–12 at Englewood Beach. The three-day event delivered high-speed competition, family-friendly entertainment and a strong demonstration of community pride, drawing large crowds to witness one of the region’s most thrilling marine sporting events.

The championship brought 41 boats to Englewood, competing across multiple classes over two full days of racing in near-perfect weather. Spectators enjoyed tightly contested heats, spectacular passings, and the roar of powerful engines against a picturesque Gulf backdrop. The turnout and competitive depth made the 2025 APBA Championship one of the most successful offshore racing events Englewood has hosted in recent years.

Race organizers reported record-level engagement from local businesses, volunteers and civic groups. Family-friendly onshore programming included educational booths highlighting Englewood’s coastal environment, community partner displays and hospitality zones that showcased the area’s restaurants, shops and marine services. The event also emphasized safe boating and environmental stewardship, aligning with Englewood Beach Waterfest’s mission to promote the region’s unique water resources and recreational opportunities.

“This year’s championship was a thrilling showcase of skill and community spirit,” said Jay Henderson, Board of Director President of Englewood Beach Waterfest, Inc. “We welcomed thousands of fans, supported local businesses and highlighted the natural beauty of Englewood Beach. Our volunteers and partners made the weekend possible, and we’re already excited to build on this momentum for future events.”

Race officials noted competitive highlights across several classes, with close finishes and standout performances from veteran teams and rising talents alike. The safe, well-organized course layout and professional timing operations ensured fair competition and an excellent fan experience both onshore and in the viewing boats. Event feedback from racers and attendees praised the hospitality, spectator sightlines and overall event logistics.

“A heartfelt thank you to all who made this year’s Offshore Championships so special; our amazing race teams, their families and everyone who traveled from near and far to share in this event. Our success comes from our dedicated board of directors, our generous sponsors, and most especially our community of 500 volunteers of whom without their spirit, passion, and commitment, this event would not have become the incredible celebration it is today,” stated Ray LaBadie, 1st Vice-President of the Waterfest Board of Directors.

“With the success of this year’s event, we are well positioned for a strong turnout for our 2026 Waterfest event set for October 8th-11th, 2026.’ affirmed Ralph Young, 2nd Vice-President of the Board, and the Waterfest Race Director.

Proceeds and fundraising efforts tied to the championship will support Englewood Beach Waterfest’s ongoing programs, including future spectator events, participant competitions and educational forums dedicated to showcasing Englewood’s waterways. The organization remains committed to promoting responsible recreation, marine conservation and community engagement through big-stage sporting events that bring visitors and residents together.

About Englewood Beach Waterfest, Inc.

Englewood Beach Waterfest, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) Florida nonprofit corporation dedicated to staging spectator events, participant competitions and educational forums that showcase Englewood’s unique water resources and recreational opportunities. The organization produces high-quality, community-focused events that celebrate marine sports, promote local businesses and foster environmental awareness.

Website:
www.EnglewoodBeachWaterfest.com