The Permian Basin Oilman’s Bass Invitational (PBOBI) began in 1995 with the intent of promoting camaraderie between oilfield workers. However, in going beyond a weekend of fun and fishing, the PBOBI decided to make the event a charitable fundraiser. Sponsorship of a worthy cause created a focus for the event and provided an outlet for demonstrating the generosity of the oilfield. After careful consideration, the PBOBI board selected the West Texas Chapter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation as the beneficiary of the tournament’s proceeds. After 7 years, due to the high number of sponsors and participants from southeastern New Mexico, the tournament expanded its reach to include the New Mexico Chapter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Associating the tournament with the children of the Make-A-Wish Foundation has made participation in the PBOBI an enriching and rewarding experience.
In its first year, the PBOBI consisted of 112 teams. Since that time, the tournament has reached its maximum capacity of 250 teams each year. Through their gifts and donations, the team members, sponsors and volunteers behind the PBOBI, have granted the wishes of over 190 extraordinary children served by the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Because of the generosity of our sponsors and fisherman, the PBOBI has contributed more than $1,750,000 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation in West Texas and New Mexico.
In recent years we have been blessed to have many of the children join us. Last June we had 36 and this year we’re expected to have many more. Each year we worry that we will not have enough boats to accommodate, but the generous people of the Permian Basin always come through. We urge you to bring your boats this June and participate in one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. This is truly what sets this tournament apart from others; while it’s nice to have door prizes, money and boat giveaways, that’s not why our fishermen are there. They are all about fun, fellowship and most importantly, making wishes come true.
