( Added: November 9, 2009 )  - Boating Writers International is accepting entries to its 17th Annual Writing Contest that recognizes excellence in boating, fishing and travel journalism. There are 17 categories that each will award $500 for first place, $300 for second and $200 for third place winners. A new category, "Original Online Content,” will recognize the best blogs, articles, videos, photos, podcasts, and social media streams. The Contest is applicable to the broadest spectrum of boating, outdoor and travel writers, and offers $17,000 in cash awards during the first round of judging that will be paid to 51 winners in 2010. Deadline for receipt of entries is December 15, 2009.

BWI members are allowed two submissions to the contest without charge; non-members can enter the contest at $35 for each submission ($35 is the same cost as an annual Active membership in BWI). Each category will be judged by four active journalists in the first few weeks of the new year. Cash awards and presentation plaques are presented to the winners at the Miami International Boat Show in February, 2010. To download the contest brochure with additional details and the entry form, visit www.bwi.org.

BWI is a non-profit professional organization consisting of writers, broadcasters, editors, publishers, photographers, public relations specialists and others in the communications profession associated with the boating industry. Members include active marine journalists across the U.S., in Canada and around the world, supporting marine manufacturers and service entities, and associates in communication roles.