Ministry of Tourism Sponsors 10th Annual Crossing for Cystic Fibrosis
BIMINI, Bahamas (23 June 2023) - The Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation (MOTIA) is pleased to sponsor the 10th Annual Crossing for Cystic Fibrosis (CF), an 80-mile paddle challenge and international championship race across the Atlantic Ocean’s Gulf Stream from the island of Bimini to Lake Worth Beach, Florida. The event being held from 21 – 25 June, came about because of health benefits of the ocean for those living with CF – a terminal lung disease.
Some 200 paddlers will contribute to raising awareness and generating funds within the CF community. Each paddler is asked to raise a minimum of $2,000. Categories for fundraiser participation are competitive and recreational, with solo and relay paddle team options. Awards, cash prizes and gifts will be given in the competitive categories. The event also includes yoga sessions, mandatory captains' meetings, a beach clean-up initiative, insightful guest speaker sessions and an exciting surprise.
MOTIA and Aqua Quest Escapes will donate an excursion for four, valued at $2,500. While MOTIA’s Bimini Tourist Office will sponsor the family dinner scheduled for Friday, 23 June at Bimini Big Game Club. The Crossing for CF not only brings CF families together but also makes a substantial contribution to the local economy of Bimini, estimated at approximately $350,000, with accommodations provided for 300-500 individuals.
Participants depart Bimini on 24 June for the long journey to Florida, where for the first time their arrival will be live streamed.
Travis Suit, the founder of Piper's Angels Foundation, underwent a profound shift in perspective upon his daughter Piper's diagnosis with CF at the age of four. This new perspective led to the creation of The Crossing For Cystic Fibrosis. This 80-mile paddle challenge stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to championing the fight against CF and shining a spotlight on this pressing issue.
To date, Piper's Angels Foundation has achieved remarkable milestones, raising over $1 million in support of the CF community and donating more than $80,000 to nine other non-profit organisations. With its global recognition as a primary support system for CF families, Piper's Angels Foundation continues to thrive and evolve into one of the most influential grassroots organisations dedicated to cystic fibrosis.
To learn more about The Crossing for Cystic Fibrosis and how to get involved, please visit www.pipersangels.org.
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PRESS INQUIRIES
Danielle Bodie
General Manager, Domestic Communications
Bahamas Ministry of Tourism Investments & Aviation