The Bash Is Almost Here – But Do You Know How It Got Started?
Do you know the story behind The Bash?
As most of you know, on January 29, 2011, James “Woody” Beckham’s life changed forever. While playing rugby for Florida Atlantic University against the University of Miami, Woody sustained a complete cervical spinal cord injury that left him paralyzed from the chest down. He underwent emergency surgery at Jackson Memorial Hospital and spent two months at Jackson Rehabilitation Hospital, beginning the long and challenging road to recovery.
In the months that followed, family, friends, and supporters rallied around Woody—but they wanted to do more...
They wanted to find a way to support him and others facing similar challenges. To ensure that resources were available for those living with paralysis, The Woody Foundation now The Way Forward Foundation was born.
In under a year, a committee was formed, volunteers stepped up, and the first-ever The Lionfish Bash/The Bash was held.
Hosted at Bimini Sands, the event raised $20,000—thanks to incredible community support, generous sponsors, and the belief that we could make a difference. Bimini Sands provided dinner, t-shirts, and discounts on condo rentals, setting the stage for what would become a long-standing tradition of giving back. In honor of this spirit, we named an award after Frank Cooney Sr., a pillar of generosity in our community.
Recognize some familiar faces?
15 Years Later – The Bash Is Bigger Than Ever!
Fast forward to April 26, 2025—we’re celebrating the 15th Annual Bash, presented by Invincible Boats! More than just a fishing tournament, The Bash is about fun, community, and raising critical funds for individuals living with paralysis. Over the years, our supporters have helped us donate more than $370,000 worth of new equipment to Jackson Rehabilitation Hospital.
Wand to come and not sure what to expect? 
📍 Weekend Festivities:
📅 Thursday, April 24 – Happy Hour Captains' Meeting @ 7:00 PM - Location TBD
📅 Saturday, April 26 – Tournament Day!
🎣 Fishing begins at sunrise
⚖️ Weigh-in: 3:05-5:00 PM @ Shake-A-Leg Miami Dock
🏆 Awards Dinner: 7:00 PM @ Shake-A-Leg Miami
🏅 Prize Categories Include:
🐟 Largest Tuna
🐟 Largest Snapper
🐟 Largest Mahi
🎣 Mahi Aggregate
👩🎣 Female Angler - Most Impressive Fish
🎣 Frank Cooney Sr. - Jr. Angler Award
🦁 Largest Lionfish
🦁 Smallest Lionfish
🦁 Most Lionfish
💥 Register Now!
🐟 Early Bird Dinner Ticket: $85
🐟 Boat Entry: $500
This event is a testament to how far we’ve come—and the impact we continue to make together. Join us in celebrating 15 years of The Bash and making a difference for people living with paralysis.
📅 See you April 26, 2025!