Sarasota, FL—It’s not often that one event can bring together sailboats, powerboats, and the opportunity to give back to the community. In the case of the 8th Annual Invitational Regatta that was hosted by the Sarasota Yacht Club Nov. 6-8, there was a special joining of forces among the more than 60 boats that participated in the 12-mile Gulf race; Kadey-Krogen Yachts, the title sponsor; and the very deserving beneficiary of the Regatta’s proceeds, The Wellness Community of Southwest Florida.
Kadey-Krogen first became involved with recognizing the efforts of The Wellness Community (TWC) in January of this year when Charlie Ann Syprett, an active Krogen owner, member of the Sarasota Yacht Club, and board member of TWC, began “Kruisin’ for a Kause.” Kruisin’ for a Kause is an opportunity for Krogen and other trawler owners to take Wellness Community-approved cancer patients out on the water for a day of relaxation and escape from the stresses of cancer and treatment programs. Kadey-Krogen Yachts welcomed the opportunity to sponsor Kruisin’ for a Kause because they believe in the serenity that boating offers and the opportunity that everyone should have to enjoy that feeling.
Through the endless energy and passion of Charlie Ann Syprett and support of the Sarasota Yacht Club, this is the first year the Invitational Regatta had fundraising efforts in support of a beneficiary. It was a natural fit for Kadey-Krogen to sponsor the first-ever Docktails kick-off party and weekend event. Larry Polster, Kadey-Krogen’s vice president says, “Sponsoring these types of events is a way for our company to not only give back to the cruising community but also celebrate life. These events underscore our philosophy that the things you regret are the things you didn’t do, so it’s important to get out there and experience cruising while you can.”
Participants as well as the general public attended Friday evening’s Docktails where they were surrounded by theme-inspired docks with festively decorated boats. With 24 boats decked out to represent Pirate, Margaretville, and Mardi Gras themes, the evening was guaranteed to be entertaining. Docktails also included specialty drinks, a robust buffet, and tropical live music that raised an overwhelming $30,000 all benefiting The Wellness Community SWFL. (For information on the Invitational Regatta, visit www.sarasotayachtclub.org or www.wellness-swfl.org.)
The main event was Saturday, November 8th and race boats were cheered on by a group of powerboats led by the Syprett’s 58-foot Krogen, Blue Heaven. This “Ring of Power” included 21 powerboats and hosted VIPs of the event including John Gear from Kadey-Krogen as well as 11 Kruisin’ for a Kause cancer participants. Kadey-Krogen Yachts is proud to have collaborated with the Sarasota Yacht Club in supporting The Wellness Community SWFL and their efforts, who since 1996 have been providing support, education, and hope to more than 8,500 people in the Sarasota area who have been affected by cancer. The weekend was filled with a good breeze and boating for a good cause and Kadey-Krogen congratulates all who participated!
Kadey-Krogen Yachts Media Contact:
Larry Polster
815 Colorado Ave., #101
Stuart, Florida 34994
800.247.1230
www.kadeykrogen.com
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