Dunkirk city officials hope Grand Prix boat race makes big splash

Dunkirk city officials on Thursday unveiled details of a big event that they hope will make a real splash for the City and Chautauqua County.  Mayor Willie Rosas announced an agreement to have Race World Offshore to hold a Grand Prix speed boat race in the city of Dunkirk August 17-19.  Special Events Coordinator Hector Rosas says the effort to bring a major boat race to the city began last September when they learned there would not be another air show…

Rosas-Reaching for the stars  

With help from Chautauqua County, the state and several major sponsors, city officials were able to raise enough funding without using city tax dollars.  One of the race organizers, Larry Bliell, was familiar with Dunkirk because of a former tie to the area…

Bliell-Familiar with Dunkirk

Rich Dancisin, another organizer, says there will be five racing classes taking part in the event including the Unlimited Class which includes speed boats capable of reaching speeds of up to 200 mph…

Dancisin-Some boats capable of 200 mph

City officials say the event will be televised internationally by NBC Sports.  Among the major sponsors involved, County Executive George Borrello, DFT Communications, Lake Shore Savings, Fieldbrook Foods, and a company that will soon locate in the Dunkirk area…Athenex. 

Mayor Willie Rosas with race organizers Rich Dancisin and Larry Bliell