The 4th annual Fight Like June sponsored by several of the Bloomin Brands restaurants did more than just surpass its fundraising goal, it kept its promise to spread awareness about colon cancer to the Tampa Bay community. Held at River Hills Country Club in Valrico on April 25th-27th, it brought in over 2000 participants, volunteers, sponsors and spectators. The three day event with its “Battle” theme offered golf, tennis and a live outdoor concert.
“Birdies for the Battle” began Friday morning with a golf scrabble sponsored by Central Florida Kidney Care along with many other notable businesses. Over 100 golfers battled it out on the green for a chance to win prizes like an EV Hummer provided by Rivard Buick. Golfers had additional perks like, “Beers for the Battle”, “Berries, Bubbles and Buns for the Battle” and hole offerings of spirits and games. After 18 holes of good times, golfers made it down to “Bistro for the Battle” for awards and prizes.
“Bands for the Battle” sponsored by Sigler Group greeted golfers and spectators on the lawn for a night full of music and fun. Bonefish Grill and Outback Steakhouse provided delicious menu items to satisfy everyone’s hunger. River Hills Country Club staffed cash bars full of libations including the signature event drink, the Typhoon June. Gary Love and the Moonlighters with Bully For You rocked the stage all night covering songs from the eighties to today. Dr. Daniel Anaya, Department Chair of Gastrointestinal Surgical Oncology and Gastroenterology at Moffitt Cancer Center briefly addressed the crowd on the importance of early detection and preventative measures of Colon Cancer. The party went into the night with dancing and celebration as the 10K donation match was met by the crowd.
“Breaks for the Battle” sponsored by Moore-Terihay Insurance Group, was held Saturday and Sunday. This women’s only doubles tennis tournament is the original event that began the Fight Like June. In 2022, it became a promise to a friend to continue her battle against colon cancer. That promise was met by Don Williams of Prime Capital Investments when he believed in the dream and became the first title sponsor. Now sponsoring the “June Rogers Championship Court”, Don continues to be crusader in the fight. The two day event brought in 44 doubles teams along with many spectators. The event showcased a Typhoon June Happy Hour, Exhibition Match and the dedication of the June Rogers Championship Court.
The 2025 Fight Like June is becoming one of the best fundraising and awareness events of colon cancer in Southwest Florida and will continue to grow year after year. It continues to grow with the support of sponsors and community members. The 5th Annual Fight LIke June is already in the works with a projected date of late March. It is sure to be another great weekend to pick your “battle”.
