Neighbor News
Monica Burguera Foundation Hosts 16th Annual Fishing Tournament, August 22
The Foundation provides free monthly Coast Guard Boater Safety Courses
The Monica Burguera Foundation (MBF) is hosting the 16th Annual Fishing Tournament on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at the Key Biscayne Yacht Club. This boat/team competition follows International Game Fish Association (IGFA) rules, and all anglers must comply with State of Florida fishing license regulations.
Proceeds will support the Monica Burguera Foundation’s mission to promote boater safety and education across South Florida. The foundation was established in memory of Monica Burguera, a 20-year-old Florida International University student who tragically died in a boating accident during the 2006 Columbus Day Regatta.
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Following the fatal accident, Monica’s family and friends created the Monica Burguera Foundation. They partner with the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) to offer free monthly boating safety classes.
“MBF believes that boating safety education can prevent accidents and deaths,” says Mabel Rodriguez, the foundation’s administrator. “Classes that teach boater education, navigation rules, anchoring, navigation aids, and situational awareness are offered in English and Spanish, and registration is available at monicaburguerafoundation.org.”
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Thanks to the MBF’s efforts, over 11,000 students have completed the program and earned a USCG Auxiliary Certificate of Accomplishment and a Florida Boating Safety Identification card, which is required to operate a boat for people born on or after January 1, 1988. Many insurance companies offer 10-15 percent discounts for boaters with a USCG certificate.
Subjects covered in the class include: an introduction to boating, personal safety, boat handling, navigation, boating problems, radio/telephone operation, trailering, water sports, and legal and state requirements. The next class is scheduled for October 10, 2026, at the Key Biscayne Yacht Club.
What: Monica Burguera Foundation 16th Annual Fishing Tournament
When:Saturday, August 22, 2026 | Captain’s Meeting, Thursday, August 20
Where: Key Biscayne Yacht Club
Contact: Mabel Rodriguez at mabel.rodriguez@estrellainsurance.com.
