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11th Annual Towboat Invitational

Published Jan 11, 2011 2:56 PM by The Maritime Executive

A golf tournament for the towboat industry sponsored by Foss Maritime, Harley Marine Services and Sause Bros. to raise money for The Heart Institute of Virginia Mason and the Boys and Girls Club of Southwestern Oregon.

On Monday, July 26, Foss Maritime, Harley Marine Services and Sause Bros. sponsored the 11th annual Towboat Invitational at The Golf Club at Newcastle. The tournament brings together almost 300 people in the towboat industry all raising money for two deserving organizations, The Heart Institute at Virginia Mason Medical Center and the Boys and Girls Club of Southwestern Oregon.

Towboat 2010 was another sold out tournament despite the economic downturn within the marine industry. High spirited guests were ready to make a great contribution to the benefiting charities by participating in games and challenges on the course, the first ever Towboat Bingo and both the silent and live auctions. The day’s events raised a remarkable $295,000 for the nonprofit organizations. All net proceeds directly benefit Boys & Girls Club programs and new equipment for The Heart Institute at Virginia Mason.

The evening’s speakers included Denise Gould, from the Boys and Girls Club and Phil Smart Sr., a patient of the Heart Institute of Virginia Mason. Their heart-felt messages helped bidders raise the paddle and bring in even more money for the benefiting charities.

“We are honored to have such extraordinary friends who give so generously of their time, enthusiasm and support to make a difference in two special organizations,” said Michael VanDerhoef, president of Virginia Mason Foundation and vice president of Virginia Mason Medical Center. “The Heart Institute at Virginia Mason brings the highest quality cardiovascular care to the residents of the Puget Sound region and beyond, and the Boys & Girls Club offers tremendous support for kids, making an important impact on their lives. All of this is made possible through the support of friends like Harley Marine Services, Sause Bros. and Foss Maritime, and all of the sponsors and participants.”

Since its inaugural event in 2000, Foss Maritime, Harley Marine Services, Sause Bros. and all other participating marine transportation companies have helped raise more than $1 million. All contributions are meaningful and appreciated.