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U.S. speedboats showcase their talent and drive in Havana

Xinhua, May 18, 2016 Adjust font size:

A unique and rarely seen event took place Tuesday in Havana's shores, with 17 speedboats arriving from Miami to the Cuban capital as part of a rally organized by the Florida Powerboat Club of America and the International Club Ernest Hemingway in Cuba.

The boats with 85 crew members reached the shores of Havana at noon time and began their exhibition before hundreds of Cubans that watched from the famous seawall.

For American sailors this first rally was an initiative that should be repeated in the coming years as relations between both nations become better.

"I think it's a great opportunity for us to appreciate a new culture and I hope that in time we can have more exchanges," U.S. boatman Robert Brightley told Xinhua.

This rally is the first one of its type in more than 50 years from the United States and is part of a comprehensive plan for the recreational boating industry in the island.

"We have been very excited to come to Cuba and it is amazing for us. This is very cool," said Curtis Watkins, another of the U.S. participants.

The high speed boats left Miami and after this display will remain until May 19 in the island to hold various meetings and the signing of an agreement with the yacht club Hemingway.

"We are showing the world that the sea as well as being the scene of historical events and a source of prosperity for different countries can also be a scenario of love and friendship between peoples," said Jose Manuel Escrich, director of the Yacht Club of Cuba.

Sports and sailors exchanges increased after the reestablishment of diplomatic relations between Washington and Havana last year.

For the remainder of 2016, 18 boat sailing competitions between Cuban and the United States are scheduled. Endit