Lush beaches and balmy breezes set the scene this past weekend as fundraisers cast their lines to benefit cystic fibrosis research and patient care. From November 8-11, 150 guests enjoyed a weekend of world-class fishing, challenging golf, spa treatments and unlimited gourmet food and refreshing libations at the Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel, all while helping a worthy cause.
“Over $5.8 million net has been raised since the events inception,” says Bob Huston, Event Chairman. “Our sponsors and event participants have helped us make significant progress in adding tomorrows for people with cystic fibrosis.” Co-chairman Jeff Jennison agrees: “Our understanding of cystic fibrosis continues to evolve as scientists’ study what causes the disease and how it affects the body. These insights drive the development of new and better treatments and bring us one step closer to a cure.”
“I’m thrilled that IOTEC, once again, was able to contribute to this very successful event as title sponsor”, adds Dana Ruf, Principle at IOTEC. “IOTEC has a long-standing commitment to fighting this disease, and events like this bring us all closer to finding the cure.”
Cystic fibrosis is a progressive, genetic disease that causes persistent lung infections and limits the ability to breathe over time. The CF Foundation is the world’s leader in the search for a cure for cystic fibrosis, and nearly every CF-specific drug available today was made possible with financial support from the organization, a donor-funded, 501(c)(3) nonprofit fully accredited by the Better Business Bureau’s (BBB) Wise Giving Alliance program.
Puerto Vallarta’s blue skies and clear water created a paradise for the tournament, part of the Redbone Tournament Series. Adrenaline rushed as novices and seasoned anglers alike battled for trophy-sized marlin, sailfish, mahi mahi, tuna and many other species. In the end the lucky winners were Dennis Fikes, Vincent Costello and Dumas Leon. Mark Kegan landed the biggest dorado while Leonard Bergman and Wendy Herrera captured top honors in the released billfish division. Boats were coordinated through Charter Dreams in Puerto Vallarta, the only charter company in Puerto Vallarta recommended by Marlin Magazine and World Outdoor News. Event volunteers were furnished by PVRPV.com.
Special appearances made the weekend all the more exciting. Baseball royalty Matt Young, Rick Honeycutt, Orel Hershiser and Jim Lonborg showed their support for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation as well as Nashville recording artist, Lucas Hoge.
For those who preferred to have their fun on dry land, Vista Vallarta provided its signature golf courses by Jack Nicklaus and Tom Weiskopf, both featuring a challenging game and gorgeous views of Puerto Vallarta’s tropical scenery. Rick Honeycutt and Matt Young snared a two-shot victory over the competition to claim the championship.
Many of the guests chose to set their hooks into the auction instead of prize-winning fish. Over 150 items were auctioned off including travel packages by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s outstanding corporate partner, American Airlines.
The rest of the weekend was pure indulgence at the Villa Premiere. If anyone still had a care in the world it was melted away at the full-service spa with a beauty salon, steam rooms, saunas, Jacuzzi and fitness rooms. Others found fun and relaxation off the resort, enjoying all Puerto Vallarta has to offer. The friendly and clean city boasts cultural events and exhibits, shopping, exciting jungle day trips, lively nightclubs and restaurants, and of course, many romantic hideaways.
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is extremely grateful to its sponsors including IOTEC, BJ’s Restaurants, China Auto Group/The Kirby Family, Watson Land Company, American Airlines, The Huston Family, Millie & Severson, Norm Wilson & Sons, Inc., Ron & Ann Hallagan, O’Connell Family Foundation Trust, Skipper & Duke’s Fishing Series, Hunter Landscape, The William Martin, Jr. Family and Norm Wilson & Sons.
