'Do it for Drew' fundraiser nets $1,127 for injured boy

Clockwise from left, Rylan O’Quinn practices taekwondo forms with a visiting Ninja Turtle during Saturday's Do it for Drew fund-raiser at Gordon Martial Arts in downtown Crestview. Master Greg Bledsoe matches taekwondo moves with the Ninja Turtle. Mary Valdez, third from left, conducts a Zumba exercise class.

CRESTVIEW — Residents kicked, stretched, Zumba’d and ultimately raised $1,127 for Drew Barefield during a weekend fundraiser hosted by Gordon Martial Arts.

The “Do it for Drew” event attracted upward of 250 supporters, who enjoyed an inflatable slide, Zumba and yoga lessons and taekwando demonstrations.

A surprise visit by a Ninja Turtle that’s been making appearances around town added to the festive atmosphere while trading kicks with some of the academy’s students.

Other businesses donated money from sales during the event. Hideaway Pizza raised more than $400, martial arts academy Master Thomas Gordon said.

Crestview Crossfit, Buddy’s View BBQ, Triple Threat Cheer and Dance, Adams Party Rentals, White Sands Hair and Tanning, Charlotte’s Used Furniture, Action Water Spray Car Wash, Gordon Air Conditioning, Hooter’s and Pawsitively Scrumptious Bark Bakery & Boutique also sponsored the event.

Drew, 12, was struck by a boater’s propeller while snorkeling June 28. The incident, a purported hit-and-run, is under investigation. Area fundraisers have been benefiting his family’s expenses for his care.                       

Email News Bulletin Staff Writer Brian Hughes, follow him on Twitter or call 850-682-6524.

This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: 'Do it for Drew' fundraiser nets $1,127 for injured boy