The 13th Annual Mats Wilander Celebrity Tennis & Golf Classic was held at the Westchester Country Club in Rye on October 17th, to benefit Debra of America, an organization committed to funding research towards a cure for EB (Epidermolysis Bullosa) and provides supportive services for EB patients and their families. Mats Wilander, John McEnroe and other sports celebrities took part in tennis competitions throughout the day. Golf rounds and tennis matches continued into the evening, when a silent auction was held, and a three-course dinner was served while a live band performed. Mats Wilander from Hailey, Idaho started the event to help families whose children had been afflicted with EB after his son was diagnosed with EB. The event has been held at Westchester Country Club for the past 13 years because Mats Wilander and Debra have a lot of supporters in the Westchester County area. Executive Director of Debra Brett Kopelan, said, “The turnout is great and shows just how important this cause is. We hope to raise over one-half million dollars tonight.” All proceeds from the event go towards research to find a cure for EB and programs for sufferers of EB.
Photo Credit: Geoffrey Tischman
