FIJI Water partners with Best Buddies for its East and West Coast Challenges.

Close to 1,500 people took part in the weekend”s festivities at Quail Lodge Resort & Golf Club for the annual Audi Best Buddies Challenge: Hearst Castle. The events included the 100-mile cycling course from Carmel to San Simeon, on Saturday, September 12. The Challenge, hosted by Maria and Anthony Shriver, raised a record amount of more than $4 million for Best Buddies International.

All those running, walking, or cycling were able to take in the amazing scenery along Pacific Coast Highway and stayed hydrated throughout the day with FIJI Water. The 100-mile charity ride also featured alternate 62, 35 and 15 mile routes, a 5K run and a 3K walk. Many experienced VIP treatment with refreshing rest stops, massages and showers as they ran or walked between Carmel and San Simeon. Afterwards, all enjoyed a gourmet BBQ and private performance by Ciara at the Hearst Ranch.

The weekend”s festivities also included a First Lady”s Celebrity/Sous Chef Challenge, featuring top California chefs such as Scott Giambastiani, Jeff Rogers, Ryan Scott and Cal Stamenov. Other celebrities present were actors David Caruso, Verne Troyer, Lisa Rinna, Maureen McCormick, and Nancy O’Dell of Access Hollywood.

To conclude the two-day event, an invite-only, VIP post-party was held at Hearst Castle, where guests were invited to swim in the renowned Neptune Pool, normally closed to the public.

Best Buddies International is a nonprofit dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities to enhance the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities by providing opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, and leadership development. The Best Buddies Challenge enables participants to create teamwork and new friendships among their peers and those with intellectual disabilities.