BRADENTON, FLORIDA—A trip here means one thing: sports. This part of Florida is a great place for all sorts of sporting activities, whether you like to participate or watch:
Rowing: When I heard that a new facility had been built in Bradenton for the 2017 World Rowing Championships, it went to the top of my list for my visit, as I am a rower.
At one time, the Nathan Benderson Park, was just a catch-basin pit for road construction. But it’s been transformed into a world-class rowing, dragon boat, kayak and canoe-racing facility.
And it’s surrounded by a wonderful community park. Having been to world-class rowing facilities, such as the 2012 London Olympics course, as a rower and spectator, it’s great to see that this course provides the local community access to the water and the surrounding area.
The waterway and park, are not just for organized events, but the locals make good use of the area. A path for running, cycling or walking surrounds the water, and anyone can use the water for rowing, kayaking and stand-up paddle-boarding when there are no events going on.
Additionally, surrounding the shimmering lake there are perfect little spots to enjoy a picnic or to just stop and watch the world go by. And within walking distance of this facility is the University Town Center which has great shops, dining and entertainment.
…enjoy the rest of the article at thestar.com
© 2015 – 2017, Anne-Marie Marais. All rights reserved.
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