cURL Error: 0
The top five counties for vessel registration in Florida are Miami-Dade (74,622), Pinellas (53,867), Lee (50,304), Broward (47,741) and Hillsborough (41,495).
“Crossing the million mark just confirms what we always knew – Florida is the top state for boaters. And with more boats on the water, we want to spread the word about boating safety to both residents and visitors enjoying Florida’s year-round boating season,” said Maj. Rob Beaton, Boating and Waterways Section Leader. “A safe day while boating is a great day. Nothing can ruin a fun and memorable experience on the water faster than a boating accident.”
Boaters are encouraged to wear their life jackets, maintain 360-degree awareness and know the dangers (and penalties) for operating a vessel while impaired.
“Life-changing tragedies happen because individuals choose to operate a boat while impaired. Those tragedies are preventable,” said Maj. Beaton. “As law enforcement, it is our job to do all we can to ensure the safety of all boaters.”
If you plan to enjoy Florida’s beautiful waterways, check out MyFWC.com/Boating for boating safety tips. You can even search there for the Florida Boat Ramp Finder to help you find a great place to launch your boat!
]]>Preparation and launching:
A busy boat ramp can be intimidating. However, an understanding of some very basic principles can help keep you safe and confident before you even arrive at the ramp.
Caption: Boater using a boat ramp in St. Marks, FL
The boat ramp is a shared area for all boaters and preparation is key. Following these steps will boost your boating confidence and allow you to launch and recover your vessel safely and efficiently.
On the water:
Once you’re on the water, smart decision making is key! In the blink of an eye, an unfavorable situation can arise. Be sure you’ve completed all necessary boating safety courses before getting behind the wheel of any vessel. Remember that if you’re the one driving, you’re responsible for not only your own safety, but also that of everyone else on your boat. Follow the guidelines below and learn more at MyFWC.com/Boating by clicking “Boating Safety” then “Boater Safety Courses.”
Caption: Boaters enjoying a nice day on the water in St. Marks, FL
Equipped with this knowledge and understanding, we encourage you to get out on the water and make a Florida memory today! Visit the links below for additional information critical to success, safety and confidence on the water.
]]>PUNTA CANA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC, September, 2020. – North American Hudson Swafford is the new champion of the 3rd edition of the Corales Puntacana Resort & Club Championship PGA TOUR, who will share a prize pool of $ 4 million dollars, 500 points of the FedExCup and a spot at the Masters in April 2021, as well as an invitation to the Sentry Tournament of Champions, THE PLAYERS Championship and the PGA Championship.
In total, Swafford will take home $ 720,000 for first place in the tournament.
The professional golf player received his trophy at an award ceremony led by the President of the Republic, Luis Abinader; the president and CEO of Grupo Puntacana, Frank Rainieri; PGA TOUR Vice President of Rules and Competition, Slugger White; and the senior vice president of Business of Grupo Puntacana, Frank Elías Rainieri.
During the award ceremony, the President of the Republic, Luis Abinader, said: “Through this important sporting event, the Dominican Republic and Punta Cana reopen their doors to tourism safely, with an optimistic message and looking to the future. I congratulate the Puntacana Group and its president, Frank Rainieri, for the vision of promoting through this tournament all that the Dominican Republic has to offer, achieving a successful edition within the framework of its 50th anniversary as a leading business group and reference in the country ” .
Likewise, the president and CEO of Grupo Puntacana, Frank Rainieri, highlighted his enormous gratitude to the PGA TOUR organization for their confidence in hosting the Corales Puntacana Resort & Club Championship and extended his congratulations to the new winner of the tournament and the players who with effort and passion represented their countries, inviting them to return to the Dominican Republic and participate in the 4th edition of the tournament in March 2021.
To conclude, the new winner of the Corales Championship PGA TOUR 2020, said that it is his second time at Puntacana Resort & Club, and highlighted that they have done an extraordinary job in making them feel safe and at home. “Participating in this tournament has been a wonderful experience for me and the other golfers,” said Swafford.
The international tournament held for the third time at the Corales golf course within the PGA TOUR, was broadcast for the first time in its history by the US national network NBC, as well as by the Golf Channel network in primetime from 3 to 6 in the afternoon and on PGA TOUR Radio, reaching more than 525 million people during the event broadcast.
Swafford’s victory at the Corales Championship PGA TOUR 2020
Hudson Swafford won with (-18), followed by Tyler McCumber with (-17), Mackenzie Hughes with (-16), Nate Lashley (-15) and Adam Long with (-14).
Hudson, at the age of 33, clinches his second PGA TOUR victory with the Corales Puntacana Resort & Club Championship, following his 2017 victory on The American Express PGA TOUR. He started this season with a T56 at the Safeway Open; moving to position number two (2) in the FedExCup ranking.
About the Corales golf course
Corales Puntacana Resort & Club, home to the first and only PGA TOUR Event in the Dominican Republic, was designed by world famous architect Tom Fazio. Opened in 2010, it is located next to the cliffs, bays, natural ocean inlets, inland lakes and coral quarries of the Caribbean Sea. It has 18 holes, six of them facing the sea and culminates with its last three holes known as the “devil’s elbow”, which is positioned among the most spectacular and difficult final holes in the world.
Sponsors
The third edition of the Corales Puntacana Resort & Club Championship has the support of: Universal, Magna (Hyundai), Citi, Texaco (GB Energy), Airport Team Solution, CCS, CEPM, CDN Deportes, Puntacana International Airport, The Westin Puntacana Resort & Club, Puntacana Resort & Club, Tortuga, Bay, Grupo Dupla, Centro Médico Puntacana, IQ Tek, Hartemontajes, Grupo Raya, Hartemanía, Constructora Llodra, Duty Free Americas, Spectro Lighting, Claro, IMCA, Grayline, JCDecaux, Tu Boleta, Estudio EG, Serviport, Coolekos, Coca Cola, Samsung, Brugal, Nestlé Impulso, Altron traiding Co, Lomo, Banreservas, Canita, Aperol Spritz, Constructora KG, United Petroleum, Nescafé Dolce Gusto, Nescafé, Club Car, PickyPlants, Inzone, Cava Alta and DBI Industrial.
]]>During the first minutes of the broadcast, Frank Rainieri, president and CEO of Grupo Puntacana, addressed a message to the millions of viewers highlighting the beauty of the Punta Cana destination and its history over 50 years of experience as pioneers of sustainable tourism.
The third round of the tournament closed with American Adam Long as the leader with (-17), maintaining the lead on 54 holes for the first time in his career on the PGA TOUR. In the 54 holes he closed with 199 points, setting a tournament record in his first participation. He featured a bogey-free round (-8), posting a 64, with nine putts in the last 10 holes.
Hudson Swafford, who finished in the lead yesterday in the second round, achieved second place with (-15). He scored an eagle / birdie on holes 7 and 8, and closed the round with 10 consecutive pars.
Meanwhile, in third position was Mackenzie Hughes (-14), who played the last nine holes achieving a -10 and without scoring a bogey in 54 holes. The fourth position was obtained by Xinjun Zhang (-13).
The winner will benefit from 500 FedExCup points, invitations to the Sentry Tournament of Champions, the Masters in April 2021, THE PLAYERS Championship and the PGA Championship.
Participation dominican by Willy Pumarol
Willy Pumarol, the only Dominican to qualify in the tournament, finished with a (-1) and a cumulative of -4, after accumulating rounds of 73-68-71.
After his participation in today’s round, Pumarol expressed: “today I started solid. I made four birdies and three bogeys on various holes, and I kept her close. I gave myself good chances that they did not fall today and I hope tomorrow I can close the tournament better. What I plan to do is play shot by shot and give my best on the field.
He also added: “I know the field very well and I think I can do a good round. This has been an excellent tournament, and I want to congratulate Grupo Puntacana. All the players have said positive things about the tournament and, like me, they are very happy to be here in the Dominican Republic ”.
About the Corales golf course
Corales Puntacana Resort & Club, home to the first and only PGA TOUR Event in the Dominican Republic, was designed by world famous architect Tom Fazio. Opened in 2010, it is located next to the cliffs, bays, natural ocean inlets, inland lakes and coral quarries of the Caribbean Sea. It has 18 holes, six of them facing the sea and culminates with its last three holes known as the “devil’s elbow”, which is positioned among the most spectacular and difficult final holes in the world.
About Puntacana Resort & Club
With three miles of magnificent white sand beaches and 45 holes of championship golf, Puntacana Resort & Club is home to some of the best beach and golf experiences in the Caribbean and is easily accessible via the Punta Cana International Airport. The resort boasts understated elegance, privacy, and unparalleled personalized service, making it one of the favorite destinations among international leaders and renowned personalities.
Sponsors
The third edition of the Corales Puntacana Resort & Club Championship has the support of: Universal, Magna (Hyundai), Citi, Texaco (GB Energy), Airport Team Solution, CCS, CEPM, CDN Deportes, Puntacana International Airport, The Westin Puntacana Resort & Club, Puntacana Resort & Club, Tortuga, Bay, Grupo Dupla, Centro Médico Puntacana, IQ Tek, Hartemontajes, Grupo Raya, Hartemanía, Constructora Llodra, Duty Free Americas, Spectro Lighting, Claro, IMCA, Grayline, JCDecaux, Tu Boleta, Estudio EG, Serviport, Coolekos, Coca Cola, Samsung, Brugal, Nestlé Impulso, Altron traiding Co, Lomo, Banreservas, Canita, Aperol Spritz, Constructora KG, United Petroleum, Nescafé Dolce Gusto, Nescafé, Club Car, PickyPlants, Inzone, Cava Alta and DBI Industrial.
]]>The event will be held without ground spectators and under strict health and safety measures. The award purse will be $4 million dollars, $1 million more than last year’s purse and the highest in the history of any sport in the Dominican Republic. Also, FedExCup points were increased to 500 and the winner will get exemption onto the 2021 Masters in April.
During the event opening press conference, celebrated at Corales Clubhouse, the president and CEO of Grupo Puntacana, Frank Rainieri, affirmed “since 2018 the tournament continues to place the Dominican Republic as the leading golf destination in the Caribbean on a world scale. We are thrill to host once again a PGA TOUR at Puntacana Resort & Club and, in this occasion, will be an excellent platform to reopen our doors to the world and promote Punta Cana.”
Likewise, John Norris, Senior Vice President of Tournament Business Affairs of the PGA TOUR, expressed that “despite challenging times in 2020, we are thrilled to be back in Punta Cana for the third year of the only PGA TOUR event in the Dominican Republic, especially to help celebrate the 50th anniversary of Grupo Puntacana. As many know, we had to postpone the original date in March and appreciate the group’s flexibility in rescheduling for this week on short notice. We are grateful for the superb relationship with all at Grupo Puntacana and look forward to an exciting Corales Puntacana Resort & Club Championship.”
The tournament is the first international event of the PGA TOUR 2020-21 season and the only PGA TOUR event during that week. This year, 144 of the best players of the golf circuit are confirmed to play, including top players like last year’s winner Graeme McDowell, as well as Jonathan Vegas, Ryan Armour, Emiliano Grillo, Bill Haas, Charley Hoffman, Charles Howell III and Pat Perez; among other top players from the United States, Mexico, Sweden and South Korea, to name a few.
Corales Puntacana Resort & Club Championship defending champion, Graeme McDowell, said during the press conference: “I have wonderful memories of my time in the Dominican Republic and it’s a privilege to return to defend my title. It’s also gratifying to see that the Corales Puntacana Resort & Club Championship has an elevated stature this year with full FedExCup points for the champion.”
To conclude, Henrik Stenson, 2013 FedExCup champion, added: “I’m really looking forward to making the trip to the Dominican Republic. I’ve heard a lot of good feedback and positive comments from other players about the Corales Golf Course and the Puntacana Resort and I’m excited to compete.”
Health & Safety Protocols
The event protocol includes the mandatory use of a mask by volunteers and staff, frequent deep cleaning and disinfectant gel stations in all areas, among other measures. In addition, in order to reinforce physical distancing, the different groups and teams that develop a role in the tournament will be divided by “bubbles”.
PGA TOUR remains in constant communication with the local health authorities in each market in which the PGA TOUR tournaments are celebrated, and closely monitors the information provided by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States Department of State regarding the evolution of Covid-19.
About the Corales golf course
Corales Puntacana Resort & Club, home to the first and only PGA TOUR Event in the Dominican Republic, was designed by world famous architect Tom Fazio. Opened in 2010, it is located next to the cliffs, bays, natural ocean inlets, inland lakes and coral quarries of the Caribbean Sea. It has 18 holes, six of them facing the sea and culminates with its last three holes known as the “devil’s elbow”, which is positioned among the most spectacular and difficult final holes in the world.
Sponsors
The third edition of the Corales Puntacana Resort & Club Championship is sponsored by Universal, Magna (Hyundai), Citi, Texaco (GB Energy), Airport Team Solution, CCS, CEPM, CDN Deportes, Puntacana International Airport, The Westin Puntacana Resort & Club, Puntacana Resort & Club, Tortuga, Bay, Grupo Dupla, Centro Médico Puntacana, IQ Tek, Hartemontajes, Grupo Raya, Hartemanía, Constructora Llodra, Duty Free Americas, Spectro Lighting, Claro, IMCA, Grayline, JCDecaux, Tu Boleta, Estudio EG, Serviport, Coolekos, Coca Cola, Samsung, Brugal, Nestlé Impulso, Altron traiding Co, Lomo, Banreservas, Canita, Aperol Spritz, Constructora KG, United Petroleum, Nescafé Dolce Gusto, Nescafé, Club Car, PickyPlants, Inzone, Cava Alta and DBI Industrial.
]]>The tournament began at 7:30 am and ended with an award ceremony and raffle delivery by Francesca Rainieri, Senior Vice President of Administration of Grupo Puntacana, in the special guests area of the Casa Club de Corales.
First place was won by the team led by the professional duo of Adam Long and Ryan Armor, accompanied by the amateur trio Roberto Herrera, Maireni Bournigal and Daniel Hernández; while the second place was achieved by the team led by the professionals Scott Harrington and Kyle Stanley, and the Dominicans José Paliza, Rafael Izquierdo and Osvaldo Oller Jr. In third place, the team formed by the professional players Mackenzie Hughes and Mattew Nesmith, and amateurs Jhon, Joe and Bob Bachich.
At the PGA TOUR Corales Puntacana Resort & Club Championship, starting Thursday, September 24, 139 international professional players and 5 Dominican players will participate.
Last year’s winner Graeme McDowell, as well as Jonathan Vegas, Ryan Armor, Emiliano Grillo, Bill Haas, Charley Hoffman, Charles Howell III and Pat Pérez are confirmed to play in this third edition; among other prominent players from the United States, Mexico, Sweden and South Korea, to name a few. The Dominican players who will participate in this edition are Hiram Silfa, Willy Pumarol, Julio Santos, Juan José Guerra and Marcel Olivares.
About Puntacana Resort & Club
With three miles of magnificent white sand beaches and 45 holes of championship golf, Puntacana Resort & Club is home to some of the best beach and golf experiences in the Caribbean and is easily accessible via the Punta Cana International Airport. The resort boasts understated elegance, privacy, and unparalleled personalized service, making it one of the favorite destinations among international leaders and renowned personalities.
Sponsors
The third edition of the Corales Puntacana Resort & Club Championship has the support of: Universal, Magna (Hyundai), Citi, Texaco (GB Energy), Airport Team Solution, CCS, CEPM, CDN Deportes, Puntacana International Airport, The Westin Puntacana Resort & Club, Puntacana Resort & Club, Tortuga, Bay, Grupo Dupla, Centro Médico Puntacana, IQ Tek, Hartemontajes, Grupo Raya, Hartemanía, Constructora Llodra, Duty Free Americas, Spectro Lighting, Claro, IMCA, Grayline, JCDecaux, Tu Boleta, Estudio EG, Serviport, Coolekos, Coca Cola, Samsung, Brugal, Nestlé Impulso, Altron traiding Co, Lomo, Banreservas, Canita, Aperol Spritz, Constructora KG, United Petroleum, Nescafé Dolce Gusto, Nescafé, Club Car, PickyPlants, Inzone, Cava Alta, DBI Industrial and Pemica.
]]>Paul Kuck has been named Regal’s Vice President of Product Development and Manufacturing. Paul has been with the company since 2008. In his former roles, he served as Marketing Manager, Director of Product Development, and Vice President of Marketing and Product Development. He is part of Regal’s executive team and has also been recognized in Boating Industry’s “40 Under 40”, an annual profile of outstanding young leaders selected for their accomplishments to sustain the industry and carry it forward.
“Paul has played a vital part in our growth and the shift in product development over the last several years,” said Duane Kuck, President and CEO. Under his leadership, the engineering and design team have created some of the most innovative products
offered in the Regal line today, with our 29 OBX model awarded Boat of the Year by Boating Magazine. And, as a result of Paul’s influence, Regal has gained a consistent 7.5% market share growth in the last three years. We see his transition into this new role as an objective to unify our manufacturing and product development teams while improving workflow and simplifying the process. Paul has the talents and heart of an exceptional leader, and I am proud to recognize his contributions to our company’s success.”
It was also announced that Jeff Littlefield has been promoted to Creative Manager and joins the Leadership Team as head of Regal’s Marketing department. Jeff began his career with Regal in May of 2012. As the primary graphic designer, Jeff has played an instrumental part in the development and re-branding of Regal’s image and contemporary look in marketing, advertising, and social media platforms.
“In his new role, Jeff will oversee the day to day operations of the Marketing department and continue to be a key player in the acceleration of the Regal brand,” said Jacob Kuck, Regal’s North American Sales Manager.
“Our marketing team has won numerous awards and has positioned Regal as one of the preeminent brands in the marine industry.”
As we continue our mission to develop a team of exceptional people, provide exceptional customer satisfaction and pursue the ultimate boating experience, we believe these organizational changes will benefit the company as a whole,” said Regal president Duane Kuck. The positive effects will then extend to our dealers, Regal owners, and further enhance our brand in the marketplace. It’s a continuous path on the journey to improve quality, create competitive products, and ultimately achieve our strategic initiatives.”
]]>David Hankla,62, of Saint Augustine, is a self-employed environmental and wildlife conservation consultant. He is reappointed for a term beginning October 17, 2017 and ending September 30, 2020.
Rebecca Bragg, 62, of Arcadia, is the owner of Canoe Outpost-Peace River, Inc. She is reappointed for a term beginning October 17, 2017 and ending September 30, 2020.
Skip Lyshon, 57, of Fort Pierce, is the sales director at Maverick Boat Group. He is reappointed for a term beginning October 17, 2017 and ending September 30, 2020.
Robert Spaeth, 70, of Madeira Beach, is the previous owner of Madeira Beach Seafood. He is reappointed for a term beginning October 17, 2017 and ending September 30, 2020.
]]>Despite its size, customers will be pleasantly surprised with the 19 Surf’s ability to create an easy-to-ride clean wave. The user-friendly surf system controlled by RegalVue can set speed, deploy surf tabs, choose the wave direction, and access GPS and engine data. Engineered to create an endless wave to last all day, the Regal surf system is paired with the standard Volvo Catalyst forward drive engine, available in 200 horsepower.
Along with its sleek design and progressive technology, the 19 Surf’s innovative features ensure boaters have an elevated experience not just on the water, but in the boat as well. A transom walk-thru for easy water access, removable cooler for refreshments, and generous storage throughout, all come standard. Versatile seating in the cockpit and bow is designed to comfortably accommodate up to 9 people. In the cockpit, the Social Seat can be reconfigured to either accompany the captain, or lounge back and enjoy the excitement out on the water. Whatever the day entails, the 19 Surf is ready for whatever adventure comes its way.
“What sets the 19 Surf apart is its extremely competitive price, and how well-equipped it comes at that price. This is not just a surf boat. The 19 surf still offers the same luxury and performance our customers have come to expect from the Regal brand.” said Jake Kuck, Regal’s regional sales manager.
With exceptional value and versatility, the Regal 19 Surf is setting a new and improved standard for the true potential of a surf boat.
Regal Marine Industries is a world leader in the design and manufacture of luxury performance boats from 19 feet to 53 feet, and in 2008 became the first boat builder to receive J.D. Power and Associates awards in two segments, twice; “Highest in Customer Satisfaction with Express Cruisers (24 to 33 feet) and Small Runabouts (16 to 19 feet).” To schedule a test drive and photo shoot of the 19 Surf, please contact Stephen Marshall at 407-447-9265.
]]>two promotions within the company, expanding their executive team on the path for future growth.
Stephen Marshall joins the team as Regal’s new Marketing Manager. Before coming to
Regal, Stephen was integral in the start-up of SouthTown Watersports, a Skier’s Choice
dealership in North and South Carolina. During his time there, SouthTown Watersports
earned titles of #1 Dealer in the World, Rookie of the Year, and Best Boat show. “I am
thankful to be part of such a great team here at Regal Boats and can’t wait to see what the
future holds for us!” said Stephen. He will play a vital role in overseeing outside marketing vendors and developing
strategies to take Regal Boats to the next level.
Mark Vahle – Appointed Director of Manufacturing, Orlando
Mark Vahle has been a part of the Regal team for over 28 years, starting as a boat builder on
the Commodore 320 line. Mark has served in all areas of manufacturing and most recently as
Plant Manager for Yachts and Sport boats. Vahle recently achieved Lean Master Black-belt
status as well. “I am thrilled about this new opportunity and continuing to help the company
grow in my new role as a leader in marine manufacturing,” said Vahle. Mark will join Regal’s Senior Leadership
Team as the Director of Manufacturing for the Orlando location. “Regal continues to expand in all areas of the
company and we are blessed to work with such a great team of people every day,” said Tim Kuck, Executive Vice
President and COO.
Paul Kuck – Appointed Director of Marketing
Since 2008, Paul Kuck has worked in various areas of the company, overseeing the marketing
team and serving as Product Manager for models in the 19’ – 32’ range. Paul has led Regal’s
marketing efforts to win several awards over the past year, including “Best Leisure Website”
from the Web Marketing Association and “Best Boat Show Display” at the Miami
International Boat Show. Paul holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from The University of Central Florida. “Regal
has a great team of people and a very bright future, with continuing growth in every segment over the past year. I
am excited to continue this journey in my new capacity as we move forward to grow the Regal brand around the
world” said Kuck. Paul will be a member of Regal’s Senior Leadership Team where he will have both strategic and
executive involvement. Paul at pakuck@regalboats.com. Duane Kuck, President and CEO said, “We are very
pleased to promote Mark and Paul to our Executive Team. Their leadership abilities are exemplary and their
dedication to Regal is second- to-none. I look forward to the significant roles they will play in guiding our future.”
Regal Marine Industries is a world leader in the design and manufacturing of luxury performance boats and yachts from 19 to 53
feet. Founded in 1969 by Paul and Carol Kuck, Regal operates as a privately held, debt free, family owned company. Based in
Orlando, FL, Regal distributes products through a dedicated dealer network in over fifty countries worldwide. For more
information about Regal, please visit our website: www.regalboats.com. For inquiries, please contact Noelle Thibodeau at 407-
447-9396 or email nthibodeau@regalboats.com.
]]>