The Los Sueños Resort and Marina at Playa Herradura, on the country’s central Pacific coast, will play host to the sixth annual Costa Rica Classic Billfish Tournament March 28-29.
Several well-known faces will be competing in the event, including former U.S. football players Mark Cooper and Gary Dunn, as well as Baseball Hall of Famer Wade Boggs. Teams will be catch-and-release fishing for marlin and sailfish, with additional points for reeling in other species.
The event is organized by the Boomer Esiason Foundation, which seeks to aid those afflicted by cystic fibrosis and to advance research on the disease. The sports broadcaster and former NFL quarterback set up the foundation after his son Gunnar was diagnosed with the condition in 1993. All proceeds from the competition will go to help Costa Rican children and young adults who suffer from cystic fibrosis.
“Every year we are excited about the growth of this fun and rewarding tournament while helping youngsters in Costa Rica who are afflicted by (cystic fibrosis),” said foundation president and former star football player Dave Rimington, who will also be taking part in the competition.
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic illness that causes the body to produce abnormally thick, sticky mucus that collects in the lungs and can lead to life-threatening pulmonary infections. The mucus also obstructs the pancreas, interfering with the digestive system.
Although there is no cure, medication and therapy can greatly improve sufferers’ quality of life.
Teams of two to six anglers are invited to enter. Registration for the competition costs $700 per entrant. For more information or to register online, visit www.costaricaclassic.com. To learn more about the Boomer Esiason Foundation, go to www.esiason.com.
