When title sponsorship of Tampa's historic Gasparilla Pirate Fest became available earlier this year, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and the Seminole Tribe of Florida were more than happy to step up their presenting sponsor status to title sponsors of the 2010, 2011 and 2012 Gasparilla Pirate Fest. The biggest reason? According to Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino President John Fontana, it's quite simple. "Gasparilla is the premier event in central Florida each year and a very important celebration for the Tampa Bay community both socially and economically."
Together with the Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla, Seminole Hard Rock felt
it only made sense to recognize Mike Alstott as the Grand Marshal of the
2010 
Seminole Hard Rock Gasparilla Pirate Fest due to his sense of
responsibility on and off the field, responsibility being a renewed
emphasis at the 2010 event. On and off from 1910 through 1973 various
past Kings of the Krewe were considered Grand Marshals. However, a four
celebrities served including: 1959 - Roy Rogers; 1986 - Gov. Bob
Martinez; 1989 - Woody Woodpecker and Andy Panda J. (Selected as Grand
Marshal in 1989 to salute the Grand Opening of Universal Studios
Orlando).
"The naming of the Gasparilla Parade of the Pirate's Grand Marshal honors a unique individual or event, and is reserved for an individual that combines leadership and integrity in their professional and personal life, while being recognized as an accomplished figure by their peers and their community. These qualities are central to Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla and Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in selecting the Grand Marshal, and Mike fits all the criteria, including being one of the greatest Buccaneers in history" said Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla's Captain Jim Robbins and Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino's President John Fontana in a joint statement.
"It's truly an honor to have been asked to serve as the Grand Marshal
for such a prestigious event here in the Tampa Bay area. It's exciting
to know that after over 100 years the event is more popular than ever
and I believe that with the Seminole Hard Rock's participation this
event will be taken to a whole new level. I'm looking forward to being
the Grand Marshal in next year's Gasparilla parade and I am thrilled to
be part of such a strong community tradition." Mike Alstott, Former
Tampa Bay Buccaneer.
Alstott will ride on the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino float, now called the Grand Marshal float, which was made by Kern Studios in New Orleans and features cards, live music and a gigantic guitar. It will be the 9th float in the 2010 Gasparilla Parade of the Pirates.
In addition, Seminole Hard Rock is planning to unveil a special promotion where one lucky Player's Club member will have the chance to ride on the Grand Marshal Float. Details are forthcoming.
Seminole Hard Rock as title sponsor brings a fun, exciting celebrity culture to the parade and the opportunities for a successful three years is imminent.