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BRADENTON, Fla. (WFLA) — A full-throttle, high-stakes river race took place on Saturday in the 11th annual Bradenton Area River Regatta.
Thrill seekers got their first look at competitors from all over the nation who are hoping to make a splash in this year’s power boat competition circuit that kicks off on the Manatee River.
“It’s definitely all about the speed and the roar,” said Michael Dongilli, event producer, ISM USA. “I mean, that’s what people come to see. These are amazing boats.”
This year’s race featured Formula-1 speedboats, which are some of the fastest in the world.
“They can hit speeds of 130-135 mph if they have to,” said Dongilli.
The event kicks off the power-boat racing circuit’s 2026 season. Dozens of high-speed boaters are hoping to perform well enough to earn a rank that will carry them through their tour across the country.
“This is really the largest spectator event in the power boat racing circuit,” said Dongilli.
I’ve never, before living here, seen this kind of boat show,” said Annette Frederick. “They’re tiny, but they’re so fast. It is amazing.”
Dongilli says racers can reach around five to six G-forces, taking daredevil turns at high speeds, which is even more than you’d typically feel on a roller coaster drop.
“We’re just excited about seeing the faces of the people,” said Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown. “When you’re walking up and down the river, and you’re seeing how excited people are, and being on the green bridge watching all the races is cool.”
The Green Bridge was closed down to give spectators a bird’s-eye view of the entire race. Organizers say the event was the largest free show that Bradenton residents could catch all year.
Formula 1 will continue their circuit in Biloxi Mississippi in April.
Thrill seekers got their first look at competitors from all over the nation who are hoping to make a splash in this year’s power boat competition circuit that kicks off on the Manatee River.
“It’s definitely all about the speed and the roar,” said Michael Dongilli, event producer, ISM USA. “I mean, that’s what people come to see. These are amazing boats.”
This year’s race featured Formula-1 speedboats, which are some of the fastest in the world.
“They can hit speeds of 130-135 mph if they have to,” said Dongilli.
The event kicks off the power-boat racing circuit’s 2026 season. Dozens of high-speed boaters are hoping to perform well enough to earn a rank that will carry them through their tour across the country.
“This is really the largest spectator event in the power boat racing circuit,” said Dongilli.
I’ve never, before living here, seen this kind of boat show,” said Annette Frederick. “They’re tiny, but they’re so fast. It is amazing.”
Dongilli says racers can reach around five to six G-forces, taking daredevil turns at high speeds, which is even more than you’d typically feel on a roller coaster drop.
“We’re just excited about seeing the faces of the people,” said Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown. “When you’re walking up and down the river, and you’re seeing how excited people are, and being on the green bridge watching all the races is cool.”
The Green Bridge was closed down to give spectators a bird’s-eye view of the entire race. Organizers say the event was the largest free show that Bradenton residents could catch all year.
Formula 1 will continue their circuit in Biloxi Mississippi in April.
