About Nathan Benderson Park
A 550-acre world-class community park and premier athletic venue in Sarasota County — where champions train and communities thrive.
World-Class
Rowing Venue
From Borrow Pit to World-Class Destination
Nathan Benderson Park began as a borrow pit — a man-made lake created during the construction of nearby Interstate 75 in the 1980s. Through visionary community leadership and decades of investment, this once-unremarkable body of water was transformed into one of the premier multi-sport rowing venues in the world.
Named after philanthropist Nathan Benderson, the park encompasses 550 acres of waterfront recreation in Sarasota County, Florida. Its centerpiece is a 400-acre lake featuring a FISA-certified 2,000-meter, 8-lane rowing course — one of the finest in North America.
Today, the park hosts more than 600 events annually, from Olympic rowing trials and NCAA Championships to community 5Ks, dragon boat festivals, and free fitness classes — making it a true gathering place for the entire Sarasota community.
Mission & Vision
Our Mission
To serve as a premier venue for athletic competition, community events, and outdoor recreation — enriching the quality of life for residents and visitors of Sarasota County through world-class programming, environmental stewardship, and inclusive access.
Our Vision
To be recognized as one of the top multi-sport recreation destinations in the United States — a place where world-class athletes and everyday families alike come to train, compete, play, and celebrate the outdoors together.
The Park at a Glance
400
Acres
of Lake Water
550
Acres
Total Park Area
600+
Events
Hosted Annually
2,000m
Course
8-Lane Rowing
Managed by SANCA
The Suncoast Aquatic Nature Center Associates (SANCA) is the nonprofit organization responsible for the management, programming, and development of Nathan Benderson Park. Through a partnership with Sarasota County, SANCA oversees daily operations, event coordination, facility improvements, and community outreach.
SANCA's team of dedicated professionals and hundreds of community volunteers work year-round to ensure the park remains a safe, beautiful, and vibrant destination for athletes, families, and visitors from around the world.
Come Experience the Park
Whether you're an athlete, a family, or just looking for a beautiful place to spend the day — Nathan Benderson Park welcomes you.