Take an Airman Fishing Tournament

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Ronald Lafosse
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  For 11 Team McConnell members on March 21 there was no need for a 5 a.m. wakeup call. They were already preparing for the day's events. Some were looking out the window seeing the rain coming down, yet still excited about the tournament hosted by American Bass Anglers District 58.

After a quick tournament brief and partner pairings, 39 boats headed out into Big Hill Lake as the sun broke through the clouds: the Take an Airman Fishing tournament had begun.

Airmen competed for bragging rights, a plaque, and a little cash. Some gained the experience of what a Bass fishing tournament is all about.

It was a tough day on the lake as few fish were caught, but Staff Sgt. Ryan Richardson, 22nd Security Forces Squadron, took first place and Big Bass honors with a winning weight of 2.06 pounds.

Second place went to Senior Master Sgt. Claude Thomson, 22nd Maintenance Squadron, with 2 pounds, who said of the tournament, "What a great time. The conditions weren't the best but everyone was friendly and I can't wait to go back out there and catch some more."

Becky Minor, district 58 event director, and Ray Templeton, event assistant director, added "We are ecstatic to show our support to the Airman, and the amount of support from thirty-nine local professional Bass fisherman willing to donate their time and knowledge on fishing tournaments is unbelievable. We would also like to say thank all the local Business in Wichita and Parson Kansas and the Coleman Company that donated gifts just for the Airman showing."

Master Sgt. Mark Kirkpatrick, 22nd Force Support Squadron and the event's point of contact for the base, wouldn't have been happier. "I was thrilled to be a part of this, and share this sport with others. Just the smile on the Airman's face when I netted his fish says it all. I can't wait till next year to do it again."