Connective Issues Winter 2026

Reels in Support for Marfan Syndrome TEXAS FISHING TOURNAMENT

 Competitors in the fly fishing division on the hunt for redfish

What began as a casual weekend of fishing among friends has grown into one of the largest and most impactful angling events in the country. The Borracho Pescador (BP) Fishing Tournament, now in its 14 th year, has evolved from about 10 friends on the Texas Coast to more than 350 anglers, a full weekend of fellowship, and an incredible $1.5 million donated to charitable causes. The Marfan Foundation was honored to be part of the BP story as one of the three charities that received funding from the 2025 tournament. “I first joined the tournament in 2016 and had such a great time and really enjoyed the group,” said Neil Turner, whose son Townes has Marfan syndrome. “It was one of those moments in life, when you look around, and think, these are really good guys. There was a positive energy that was happening and the feeling that this weekend could really become something special.” The tournament’s spirit has always been rooted in camaraderie and giving back. What started as a $20 buy-in and a Yeti cooler prize now features world-class auction items, support from outdoor brands like Yeti,

Howler Brothers, Turtlebox, and Simms, and an “over-the top” swag bag. “What has been cool to see is that these brands also attend the tournament to participate and support at the event as well,” said Neil. “It’s been very humbling to see it grow into one of the largest fishing events in the country.” Journey to a Marfan Diagnosis For the Turner family, the tournament’s generosity carries personal meaning. In 2022, an unexpected eye appointment led to a life-changing discovery. Townes had subluxated lenses, an early sign of Marfan syndrome. “My wife and I are so grateful for Townes’ eye doctor who encouraged us to get him tested,” said Neil. “During that visit, I wrote Marfan syndrome, subluxated lens, and Dr. Wang [the referred specialist] on a sticky note that I still carry in my wallet today.” That routine eye appointment turned into months of genetic testing, heart monitoring, and eventually two major

 Participants at the 2025 Borracho Pescador Fishing Tournament held in September in Port O’Connor, Texas

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