Cards For A Cause!

The La Costa 35 Athletic Club, a local nonprofit organization, hosted its 12th Annual Texas Hold ‘Em Poker Tournament on November 4, benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Carlsbad.

The LC35 Athletic Club was formed in 1984 to promote friendly competition, good sportsmanship, and a social outlet for its members – Carlsbad residents aged 35 and older.

Begun in 2011 as a way to give back to the community, the first poker tournament was held at the then under construction Bressi Ranch Boys & Girls Clubhouse. Since its inception, the event has nearly tripled in attendance and raised nearly $500,000.

“There were 15 poker tables and close to 150 players,” said Tournament Director Rob Holzman. “In the end, it’s the kids who win. Over $45,000 in net proceeds was raised for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Carlsbad!”

Adding to the atmosphere was catering from Gregorio’s Restaurant, Mendocino Farms, Baja Jerky, and BJ’s Restaurant, generous donations by HRE Performance Wheels for a full set of custom wheels and Haro Bikes for two Beach Cruiser E-Bikes, all of which were auctioned off to the highest bidder, and large screen TVs broadcasting the blinds as well as football games, courtesy of Home AV-TV & Design.

With play going on well into the night, Sarah Nakao was awarded the coveted Winner Bracelet and moved on to play in the $5 million WPT Prime Championship at the Wynn Las Vegas. Andy Kimball was the runner-up and won a vacation stay in a beautiful oceanfront home.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Carlsbad has played an integral role in the Carlsbad community since 1952, providing programs and services to thousands of young people. Boys & Girls Clubs of Carlsbad invites you to tour their Clubhouse and see how lives are changed on a daily basis. The organization is 100% funded by local donors. For more information, call (760) 444-4893, email info@bgccarlsbad.org, or visit www.bgccarlsbad.org.