BIRMINGHAM, Ala., July 2002 - During this Classic Week, the small fry will be big shots with the various activities that are tailored toward young bass enthusiasts.
"The kids are where it's at to me," said Randy Howell, a four-time Classic qualifier from Trussville, Ala. "They are such a big part of Classic Week every year. I really enjoy meeting them and signing autographs."
There is plenty for kids of all ages to enjoy in Birmingham during Classic Week. And all of it is free.
One of the highlights of the festivities is the Kids Classic, which will be held Wednesday, July 24, from 7:30 a.m. to noon at Oak Mountain State Park. With the help of B.A.S.S. Federation volunteers, the youngsters get to compete in their own Classic of sorts - a contest that is fun, relaxed and instructive. Contestants receive a free rod-and-reel, cap and T-shirt for participating. There will also be many other activities, including face painting, clowns, inflatables and interactive games. And nationally syndicated radio hosts Rick and Bubba will broadcast live from the Kids Classic.
Alabama Power Company will be stocking Double Oak Lake with bass for the youngsters on the morning of Tuesday, July 23. The bass are being supplied by American Sportfish of Montgomery, Ala.
In addition, the kids at Oak Mountain State Park will have an opportunity to meet the 52 Classic pros, which include some of the biggest names in fishing.
"I really enjoy that part of the Classic," said Tim Horton, another Alabama pro and the 2000 B.A.S.S. Angler of the Year. "The Kids Classic and autograph session is really a great event."
Young fishing fans can also cheer for their favorite pint-sized anglers during the CastingKids National Championship. Ten finalists, divided into two age groups, will cast, flip and pitch for national championship titles, scholarships and merchandise in the Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center on Friday, July 26, at 11 a.m. emcee Fish Fishburne will be joined by Rick and Bubba to call all of the action.
The young fans can also root for their favorite fishing stars during the three daily weigh-ins which will ultimately decide the 2002 Classic champion.
There are a wide variety of activities geared to the young angler available during the three-day Classic Outdoor Show at the Civic Center. They include: tree-climbing and log-rolling contests; wood-carving demonstrations; trout-pond fishing; viewing bass and enjoying instructional seminars at the Bluewater Promotions fish viewing tank; inflatables; and much more.
Also at the Classic Outdoor Show, youngsters will have an opportunity to meet other top pros and get their autographs. For example, the star-studded Chevy Trucks Pro Staff will man the Chevy booth throughout the three days of the show.