just got memo from SBI...because of the uncertainties regarding hurricane Isabel. the SBI race scheduled for this weekend has been cancelled. it will NOT be rescheduled.

Here is the press announcement from SBI:

September 15, 2003

Dear Racers and Fans,

Super Boat International’s National Championship race is to be held this weekend, September 21, 2003.

The following items are of concern to SBIP:

It is still unknown at this time the direction of the storm;
The unknown of high sea conditions as predicted, to ask for medical, patrol, and check point boats to go out on the racecourse could be unsafe;
Rip tide conditions are expected and if there is a need for medical response for a boat that has rolled over, this would make rescue difficult;
The boats have raced all year long acclimating points for this final race (the National Championship) and it would not be fair for the Northern boats not to participate because of the Hurricane;
The racers from the north would need to secure their property and family;
It would be difficult for the boats traveling from the north traversing over the highway on Thursday and then the return home could be hard;

After surveying the issues at hand from Hurricane Isabel, Super Boat International is canceling the September 21, 2003 race to be held in Miami, Florida. It is not possible to reschedule to another date because of the World Championship race being the week of November 2 - 9, 2003. For this reason, SBI will award points for Tuesday and Thursday race during the World Championship to go toward the National Championship finals (like was done in 2001 after 9/11 when the Bahamas race was canceled).

Our apologies for any inconvenience to racers, fans and supporters that this may have caused. With a hurricane being a category 4 or 5, has so many unknown factors to plan a race of this magnitude.

Respectfully,


John Carbonell, President Super Boat International Productions, Inc.

No way, that stinks, I was looking forward to it...But safety first I guess...Nationals I'm sure will be rescheduled...probably for Deerfield...

I thought Isabel was heading for the Northeast and would hit mid-day Thursday, I don't understand how this would affect a race in Miami unless they are concerned about the racers and equipment traveling to Miami.

Thats exactly why.

they are concerned about the teams traveling down from the north.

Gosh BRUCE and Ron P, I hope The OPA race in MD does not get blown out.

I spoke to John C today. Aside from the possible hugh water. Many of the teams are from the northeast, and connot leave their families, and buissness with this storm looming out there. Not to mention the title sponsor is from NC which could be ground Zero. The only responsible move was to cancel.

The MD race was originally set for this weekend. however as luck would have it, the race is scheduled for next weekend Sept 28th.

But don't miss the Jersey Boyz race this Friday off Point Pleasant. It's only going to be one lap. Whoever makes it back into the inlet wins!!!! 20' seas!!!! Yeeehaa.

Dont worry about the Jersey Boyz......We go out and play in Herricanes.....Aint Scared

Smitty, guess hell or high water Kevin and I are there with you and Sticks.

I guess I'll be waiting til November to see some good quality racing. All you Northeastern guys, stay safe while this weather is heading your way.