Reelin’ for Research began with one family, one fight, and one goal: to help land a cure for childhood cancer.
In 2005, Tony Montana lost his battle with cancer, leaving behind a son and a community determined to continue his fight. Tony’s friends and family decided to honor him the best way they knew how: by combining their love of fishing with their desire to make a difference.
What started as a small tribute has grown into one of the nation’s top charity sportfishing events. Each year, more than 80 boats and hundreds of anglers take to the water with a shared purpose: to raise money for childhood cancer research and treatment. Together, we’ve raised more than $8.3 million and counting.
Reelin’ for Research is still powered by Tony’s spirit, his son’s legacy, and the belief that every child deserves a fighting chance.
OUR STORY
OUR HISTORY
Reelin’ for Research is founded in memory of Tony Montana. The first tournament is held in Morehead City, North Carolina, to support childhood cancer research at UNC Children’s Hospital.
The Tony Montana Fellowship Fund is established to support physicians focused on pediatric cancer research at UNC Children’s Hospital.
The Tony Montana Fellowship Fund is established to support physicians focused on pediatric cancer research at UNC Children’s Hospital.
The Fellowship Fund reaches full endowment, ensuring support into perpetuity. Pediatric cancer researchers at UNC Children’s Hospital will continue to be funded for generations.
UNC Children’s Hospital officially names its pediatric hematology and oncology clinic after Reelin’ for Research, recognizing the lasting impact of this tournament and its donors.
UNC Children’s Hospital officially names its pediatric hematology and oncology clinic after Reelin’ for Research, recognizing the lasting impact of this tournament and its donors.
Reelin’ for Research has raised more than $8.3 million for UNC Children’s Hospital in support of childhood cancer research. Funds now power clinical trials, pediatric care, and discovery, all with one goal: to help land a cure for childhood cancer.
our crew
Reelin’ for Research runs on passion, teamwork, and a shared goal: to help land a cure for childhood cancer. Our Planning Committee works year-round to organize the tournament, while our Event Leads and Support Team bring it all to life on tournament weekend.
Planning Committee
Heather Barber
Tournament Director
Dena Maginnes-Jeffrey
Director of Operations
Justin Connrad
Tournament Chaiman
Richard Montana
Founding Chairman
Brian Cooke & Scott Gower
Sponsorships
Seth Marshall & Mike Kilpatrick
Boats and Charters
Brittany Denning
Volunteer / 3rd Party Coordinator
Molly Pendelton & Tom Flanagan
Auction Procurement
Support Team
Cory Barber & Phillip Jeffrey
Weigh-In & Dock Operations
Dean Little
Chase Boat Captain
Denise Larcinese
Administrative Coordinator
Jess Poole
Weighmaster
Jim Branson
Event Emcee
Jack Ketrow
Ambassador Family Liaison
Maury Kenedy
Photography Lead
Sales Factory
Live Scoring Team
Stacy Calfo
Marketing and Content Coordinator
“It is hard to express my enthusiasm for being named the Reelin’ for Research Fellow. We could not do what we do here at UNC Children’s Hospital without your support and caring.”
— Jennifer Brondon, MD