The 15th Annual Thunder On Cocoa Beach, Presented By KelTec, takes place May 17-19, promising exhilarating powerboat racing off the Atlantic Coast of Florida. Net proceeds raised from this year’s event benefit I Am a Freedom Fighter, a non-profit that empowers organizations that prevent, identify, rehabilitate, and support survivors of human trafficking by raising money for them, and providing training for the community.
The weekend begins on Friday with a parade down A1A followed by a Downtown Block Party showcasing plenty of powerboats on display, food, drinks, and live music. High speed racing will take place on Saturday and Sunday with more than 60 race teams competing for the checkered flag and the Class 1 boats reaching speeds of up to 160 mph. The best viewing area is between Shepard Park and Coconuts on The Beach. Throughout the weekend, race teams from around the world will be on display in the Port Canaveral parking lot, which is open and free to the public.
New to the event this year is an elevated VIP Viewing experience on the beach at the Start/Finish Line at Lori Wilson Park and the Class 1 Experience. This year’s VIP viewing experience offers upgraded amenities for guests, a live stream of all the race action, expanded seating options, and enhanced dining and beverage selections with a cashless experience making purchases on the beach a breeze. Corporate hospitality tents will also be available.
The Class 1 Experience will provide race fans with a true behind-the-scenes tour of the biggest and fastest powerboats on the water. It includes private access to parties, events, private tours, team meet-and-greets, and ultra-premium race viewing on both race days. “Our aim is to create a memorable experience for race fans and attract more people to this thrilling sport," said hospitality director Christy Masters.
Last year Thunder On Cocoa Beach generated an estimated $12 Million in economic impact. “Our race site has grown significantly over the years, making Cocoa Beach a premier race site on the schedule and a destination event for both race teams and race fans," said Race Chairman Kerry Bartlet.
Major Sponsors for the event include Visit Space Coast. For tickets and more information visit thunderoncocoabeach.com
Thunder on Cocoa Beach is the season opener for Powerboat P1’s 2024 season which receives both national and international television coverage, including Bally Sports regional sports networks. Future races include Lake of the Ozarks, MO (May 29-June1), Sheboygan, WI (August 9-11), Sarasota, FL (Sept. 13-15), and St. Petersburg, FL (Oct. 18-20). For more information, visit P1offshore.com and Class1world.com
Photography by Ronny Mac