APOLLO BEACH – Habitat for Humanity of Tampa Bay Hillsborough raised more than $120,000 during its eighth annual Veterans Inshore Slam to help veterans and their families maintain safe, stable homes.
More than 130 people, including anglers, sponsors and community supporters, participated in the fishing tournament Oct. 17 at Finn’s Dockside Bar & Grill in Apollo Beach. The friendly competition benefited home repairs and storm-resiliency improvements for veteran homeowners in Hillsborough County.
“Our veterans have given so much in service to our country, and they deserve to feel safe and secure in their own homes,” said Nitza Rivera, vice president of veterans build and neighborhood revitalization at Habitat for Humanity of Tampa Bay Hillsborough and a retired U.S. Army master sergeant. “The support raised through this tournament helps Habitat reach more veteran homeowners and address repairs that might otherwise go unmet. As a veteran, I’m proud to be part of a community that continues to show up for those who have served.”
These anglers netted the tournament’s top catches:
- Grand Slam (combined length of redfish, snook and trout): John Farkas, TECO, 68.5″ (first place); Ryan Moreno, Slide Insurance, 65.75″ (second place); and Christine Smith, Eaton Realty (third place).
- Largest Redfish: Willy Asab, Grow Financial, 30″
- Largest Snook: Willy Asab, Grow Financial, 34″
- Largest Trout: Robert Hudson, Westshore Financial, 21.25″
- Largest Other Fish: Christine Smith, Eaton Realty, 33″ Bonnethead Shark
Funds raised through the tournament support Habitat for Humanity of Tampa Bay Hillsborough’s annual Veterans Build Week of Service, Nov. 5-11, leading up to Veterans Day.
During the week, volunteers will repair the homes of limited-income veteran homeowners, tackling projects such as pressure washing, painting, repairing porches and access ramps and performing yard work. These improvements help veterans remain in their homes while addressing critical maintenance and storm preparedness needs.
Old Republic Title was the presenting sponsor.
