The Fort Lauderdale to Key West Race began when crews delivering boats to start the St. Petersburg to Fort Lauderdale Race in the '70s decided to stop for a drink (or two) in Key West on the way. In the days before yacht tracking, getting there faster meant more time on Duvall Street without the owners knowing! It organized in 1975 and evolved into one of the premiere distance races in North America, ultimately giving birth to the fabled Key West Race Week in the '80s because no one wanted to leave! Today, racers from around the country still enjoy the warm waters of the Gulf Stream in January and the unique hospitality of Key West at the finish line.