Clearwater expects record 90-plus fleet as ESPN returns

Clearwater expects record 90-plus fleet as ESPN returns

The 17th Annual XINSURANCE Clearwater Offshore Nationals returns 25 to 27 September with more than 90 raceboats expected, which would make it the largest fleet in the event's history, alongside the event's first one-hour television special, which RWO says will return offshore powerboat racing to ESPN after 23 years.

More than 90 raceboats are expected on the water at Clearwater Beach, which would make this the largest fleet RWO has assembled at the venue in its 17-year history. "More than 90 raceboats tells you exactly what this beach means to offshore racing," said Larry Bleil, RWO president. The weekend also counts toward two separate championships at once, the APBA National Championship Series and the XINSURANCE UIM World Championship Series, the same four-class UIM structure, Class 1, Class 2, Super Cat and now Super Stock, that's carried through this season's coverage.

Two and a half miles of free viewing

Fans don't need a ticket to watch the racing from the beach. The course runs parallel to the shoreline, with free viewing from Pier 60 north for two and a half miles. RWO is also expecting its largest spectator fleet yet, anchored along the course perimeter for a view only offshore racing offers. Between races, Dimmitt, the event's official truck, sits on display at Pier 60, and race week nightlife runs each evening with live music at Shephard's Beach Resort.

Racing starts at 11am on Saturday and 10:45am on Sunday, with the final chequered flags scheduled for 4:15pm and 3:45pm respectively.

Back on ESPN after 23 years

RWO says the event's first one-hour television special, showcasing St. Pete Clearwater, will air on ESPN in the first quarter of 2027, returning offshore powerboat racing to the network after a 23 year absence.