Rob Giardinelli
“Vintage Vegas” Theme Offered A Jackpot Evening With Retro Glam
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Haley Plotkin
THE SCENE: The University of Texas Golf Club in Austin was the setting for an elegant night of fun and fundraising. Several hundred of the capital city’s most notable community leaders, children’s advocates, sociables, and philanthropists were on hand for the 16th Annual Champions to CureDuchenne Gala. The night’s theme, Vintage Vegas, had guests ready to have a great time and raise funds for a very worthy cause.
and Michelle Swift
THE VIBE: The black-tie crowd featured patrons donning an array of black-tie ensembles, many of whom got into the party spirit by embracing the Rat Pack. In the crowd, one could spot traditional black-tie attire mixed in with a bold mix of prints, metallics, and bright colors. Others could be seen donning feathers and fedoras. The result was a crowd that was both well-heeled and welcoming.
The night began with a cocktail hour, where guests gathered around the bar to grab their favorite beverage of choice, mingling with other partygoers. During the cocktail hour, guests could be seen perusing a robust selection of silent auction items while previewing the live auction items later in the evening.
and Jessica Lesh
Revelers then took to their seats for the evening’s main program. Emcee Jim Spencer kept the crowd engaged throughout the night, keeping the festivities moving at a fun and brisk pace. As diners enjoyed their delectable multi-course meals, they were treated to words from the organization and event leaders thanking them for being a part of such a special night.
Next, Mike Jones helmed a spirited live auction. Paddles went up for an array of luxury experiences, including a Tulum Getaway, a Private BBQ Blowout courtesy of Michelin-Starred Restaurant InterStellar BBQ, and a Great Gatsby Dinner at Commodore Perry Estate, emerging as the most popular items of the night. The night was capped off with an after-party where guests played their favorite casino games and danced the night away.
THE NON-PROFIT: The 16th annual Champions to CureDuchenne, co-chaired by Tim and Laura Revell, raised over $400,000 for CureDuchenne. Proceeds raised from the event will be used to fund research, patient care, and innovation, aiming to improve and extend the lives of those suffering from Duchenne. This progressive, fatal condition affects approximately 1 in 5,000 boys. To date, Champions to CureDuchenne has raised over $8 million for the organization.
