Classic Fact
Seven past Classic winners fished the 2002 championship: Tommy Martin, Davy Hite, Larry Nixon, Mark Davis, George Cochran, Kevin VanDam and Woo Daves. VanDam and Daves are the only two not to make the Day 3 cut. (The field of 52 anglers was cut to 25 after the Day 2 weigh-in.) Larry Nixon was the highest placing former champ in this year's Classic, capturing 5th place.
Ray Scott's Classic Appearance
Today, B.A.S.S. founder Ray Scott made a return to the Classic stage to reminisce about the past. "The Classic has become such an awesome event. It proves that kids don't have to come from a wealthy background to be successful. All they need is a fishing pole and a big ol' dream," said Scott.
Outstanding
B.A.S.S. pro Rick Clunn is adding another award to his already full trophy case. Clunn was presented with the inaugural B.A.S.S. Outstanding Achievement Award for the many accomplishments he has amassed over the past 29 years, including four Classic victories and 28 Classic appearances. As he accepted the trophy, Clunn said, "Please don't make professional fishermen into heroes. Instead, consider us examples that illustrate the American dream and the potential that exists for everyone that lives in this great country." The presentation ended with a bald eagle soaring from the upper bleachers, landing on stage next to him.
Million Dollar Cast
Dawn Stegall of Pordell, Okla., was drawn out of the crowd of thousands at the final weigh-in to participate in the Cast For One Million Dollars. Stegall had to stand on the back deck of a boat and cast a plug 60 feet into the mouth of a giant bass. She missed. Had she made the cast, $1 million would have been awarded. Instead, she left towing a new fully loaded Triton boat worth $35,000. Not a bad catch.
Yelas Makes History
No Classic competitor has ever won the big bass award all three days. Jay Yelas changed that this year. The 6-2 (Day 1), 6-4 (Day 2) and 4-13 (Day 3) big bass solidified the championship title and gave Yelas this unprecedented accomplishment.
Quote Of The Day
"I suspect the reports of my death have been greatly exaggerated."
-- Rick Clunn (quoting Mark Twain) referring to sentiments that his winning days are over.