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9^th annual Dick Vitale Gala

The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota was jammed packed with celebrities and sports greats Friday, May 16, for the 9^th annual Dick Vitale Gala. Among those in the star-studded crowd were the evening's honorees: Notre Dame Head Basketball Coach Mike Brey, Alabama Head Football Coach Nick Saban and Indiana Head Basketball Coach Tom Crean.

Beyond the excitement of the coaches, more than 800 guests were there to support Dick Vitale and his passion for cancer research — which they did, by raising more than $2 million dollars for The V Foundation for Cancer Research, doubling last years proceeds.

The event began with a “Meet and Greet” cocktail reception, where guests had the opportunity to mingle with the coaches. Guests then gathered in the ballroom where they enjoyed a fine meal and heartfelt speeches by the honorees and Dick Vitale himself.

Following the event, VIP guests made their way in to the VIP tent for the after party, where Dick Vitale was surprised with a birthday celebration for his 75^th birthday. The Four Tops brought him up on stage to sing him “Happy Birthday” as a sparkling cake was wheeled out for him to enjoy with his friends and family.