When i start it the engine it will fire no problem and run until i realease the key. If I hold the key in start position ( with starter still running im sure ) I can thottle the engine as if it were started. As soon as I release key shuts right off. After 4 or 5 times of this it will stay started. Seems to be worse when hot. Any ideas ???

You have a bad ignition switch. Replace it with a quality marine-grade model.

Yep, A bad switch!