The Australian-based 222 Offshore racing team, who are the reigning Key West Class 1 World Champions, is set to return to the U.S. racing scene with a mission beyond the checkered flag. After missing a full season of from competition, 222 Offshore with owner/driver Darren Nicholson and throttleman Giovanni Carpitella, announced that they will compete at the Race World Offshore World Championship in Key West, scheduled for November 3-10—using their platform to support hurricane relief efforts in Florida, where the West Coast has been hit hard by recent storms.
Teaming up with Sarasota-based Suncoast Charities, a longtime partner of the Sarasota Offshore Powerboat races, the team aims to raise funds for those affected by the hurricanes. The charity's focus is to provide essential support, such as temporary housing and meals, for displaced families, especially those working in the service and hospitality industries.
Darren Nicholson, owner and driver of 222 Offshore, expressed the team's deep connection to Florida: “Florida has become almost like a second home for us since we started racing here in 2019. Watching from afar as hurricanes ravage a place we love leaves you feeling helpless. We’ve always felt welcome here, and it’s our turn to give back.”
The team had a dominating offshore racing season last year, with 4 first place finishes and 2 second place in 6 total races for the regular season, easily earning them the National Championship for 2023. They also took the checkered flag on all three days of competition in Key West, awarding them the World Championship title, as well. Throttleman Giovanni Carpitella from Italy will be pulling double duty in the Southernmost point of the U.S., as he has been racing stateside with Factory Stock 450R Class' Team Montlick Injury Attorney/Doug Wright since August, 2024, alongside driver Logan Adan. The team is currently in the points lead for the class.
Suncoast Charities Executive Director Lucy Nicandri emphasized the urgent need for relief, noting that many working families, particularly those caring for individuals with special needs, are struggling to recover from the devastation.
As part of their efforts, 222 Offshore will launch a new merchandise line, with a portion of sales going directly to Suncoast Charities to assist those hardest hit in Sarasota.
Anyone wanting to donatedirectly on behalf of the 222 Offshore team can head to the Suncoast CharitiesHurricane Relief page here:
