George Strait’s 11th Vaqueros del Mar Golf Tournament & Benefit Concert Raises $1.7 Million for Wounded Vets

Country music star George Strait recently hosted the 11th annual Vaqueros del Mar golf tournament and benefit concert. The charitable event raises funds for injured servicemen and women. As a result, Strait alongside longtime friend and businessman Tom Cusick raised $1.7 million for the Feherty’s Troops First Foundation.

The Feherty’s Troops First Foundation was established by Rick Kell and former professional golfer David Feherty in August of 2008. Previously an on-course report for the PGA Tour, Kell spent time with patients in recovery forging many friendships. He quickly developed a strong desire to find a way to provide meaningful assistance on a larger scale.

Consequently, the two friends started the company to support veterans recovering from serious combat injuries after serving in Iraq or Afghanistan.

Host Resort Donates Benefitting Veterans

Longtime event host, Tapatio Springs Hill Country Resort generously donated a whopping $25,000 to the cause.

Tapatio Springs Hill Country Resort & Spa is located in San Antonio, Texas. The venue boasts spectacular views of rocky cliffs amongst lakes and clear streams shaded by a variety of trees. The resort is home to a PGA 18-hole Billy golf course providing an exciting challenge for the avid golf player.

All 111 rooms on-property offer either a patio or balcony setting including a variety of commodities. Resort amenities include dining, swimming, a fitness center, tennis, and horseback riding. In other words, the intimate venue provides the perfect landscape for such an event.

Strait Puts on A Good Show Amongst Friends

Strait and Cusick are joint owners of the resort with a partner, Northview Hotel Group. They worked together to create the fundraiser benefitting U.S. veterans in November of 2011. Each year, the event opens with a Gala and Live Auction presented by Strait, Cusick, and Feherty at Estancia at Thunder Valley.

The star-studded weekend culminates with a grand finale featuring golf “Shootout” in which teams compete for a grand prize. In previous years, the grand prize featured custom-designed belt buckles. Finally, attendees come together for the ultimate Jam Session and Celebration party. Past entertainers of the event include Ray Benson, Asleep at the Wheel, Dean Dillon, Keith Gattis, and more.

The respected “King of Country” can certainly be found in rare form at the celebration. That is to say, he performs many of his classic hits alongside good friends throughout the spectacular night.

Strait Released New Music Video Honoring First Responders

Strait has been a longtime supporter of the heroes of our nation, including first responders. In a recent video for his song “Weight of the Badge,” he shares touching stories of real moments between first responders and their families.

“The men and women in this music video are our friends and neighbors who carry the weight of the badge each day,” he states in the video. “Thank you. We appreciate you and the sacrifices you and your families make.”

Watch the video here: