THE CROWD:

Athletes First, a Newport Beach-based sports agency that represents nearly 100 pro football athletes, joined forces with the Orangewood Children’s Foundation recently, specifically supporting the Orangewood auxiliary known as PALS. A two-day fundraiser called “The Athletes First Classic,” included a major party and a spectacular spring golf tournament. The Saturday night gala at the St. Regis Resort, Monarch Beach, attracted 600 guests and honored NFL Pro Bowler John John Lynch and prominent business leader William Thompson, retired executive with PIMCO. Both men received “The Golden Heart Award” from PALS.

The evening was sponsored by the Argyros Foundation and also by generous donors Robert and Susie Barth.

By the end of the event, which included the weekend golf outing as well as the Saturday evening gala, more than $350,000 was raised for Orangewood and its programs preventing child abuse and neglect in Orange County.

John Gruden, a former NFL coach, lauded John Lynch, introducing him as a nine-time Pro Bowl selection, considered one of the best players in the NFL.

Lynch and his wife, Linda, created a foundation in 2000 with the mission of developing young American leaders through community action programs. In addition the Lynches provide college scholarships to student athletes who combine excellence in athletics, academics and community service.

Thompson’s daughter Emily presented the award to her father. PIMCO is the nation’s leading fixed income investment management company, with assets exceeding $750 billion.

The evening was emceed by Michael Smith, ESPN sports reporter. Auction items included golf outings with athletes including USC quarterback Mark Sanchez and Matt Cassel, VIP sideline passes for the 2009 USC football season and exotic trips to tropical destinations. On hand for the party were Athletes First Chief Executive David Dunn and Orangewood chief executive Cal Winslow. The gala co-chairs were Argyros daughter Stephanie Gehl and her husband, Jeff Gehl, and Shannon Tarnutzer of Bayshores, wife of Byron Tarnutzer.

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