Hot Springs will be host this summer to The Bass Federation Junior World Championship during the Forrest Wood Cup.
Anglers 11-15 have qualified from 47 TBF state federations and Canada for the Aug. 20-22 event on Lake Hamilton.
On the first day, anglers from different states will be paired in boats by TBF and Forrest L. Wood Tour volunteer boat captains. TBF division winners compete against each other in the final, each receiving a scholarship and stage recognition before the third-round weigh-in in the Forrest Wood Cup.
Promoting the event, Steve Arrison, executive director of Visit Hot Springs, said, "I can think of no greater event than this one, which gets young people started early in the sport of fishing and continues to foster the kids' enthusiasm for this sport, which is one of the best ways I know to steer them toward productive lives.
"While here, the national participants and their families will enjoy the excellent fishing that Lake Hamilton offers," Arrison continued. "And in their spare time, they will be able to enjoy all the other attractions and activities that Hot Springs offers. In addition to our historic heritage as the prototype for the national park system, Hot Springs offers great entertainment ... great dining and warm hospitality. We are eager to host these young champions and show them all Hot Springs has to offer."
TBF national youth director Mark Gintert said, "Returning to the Hot Springs area is always a pleasure for us. This town has a rich place in America's history as well as a wealth of fishing opportunities and things to do for our anglers and their families. The Visit Hot Springs staff is top notch and committed to the very best event we can have for our anglers and their families." (TBF is headquartered in Ponca City, Okla.)
Ranger Boat models powered with Evinrude G2 outboard motors will be on site at the junior world championship weigh-in area each day for free test rides by anglers, families and the general public. For more information, go online at www.flwoutdoors.com.
Sports on 02/27/2015