MANY, La. - February 21, 2003 - Adverse weather conditions have forced the cancellation of the second day of competition at the Bassmaster Tour event taking place on Toledo Bend Reservoir.
"In the interests of angler safety we made the decision to cancel the day," said Trip Weldon, BASS tournament director.
The decision to cancel came after an initial delay due to fog and later to torrential rains.
Weather forecasts for the area are predicting continued thunderstorms throughout the day with rainfall of approximately 4-6 inches expected and the possibility of tornadoes. A flood watch remains in effect for the area through 4 p.m. (CT).
As a result of the cancellation, Saturday's competition will consist of a full field of anglers with the amateur champion being crowned at the conclusion of Saturday's weigh-in. Plans for the Showdown portion of the event, which initially called for a cut to 12 pros then to the Super Six pros for the final round, will be announced later today.
The tournament resumes Saturday at 7 a.m. (CST) with weigh-ins beginning at 2:30 (CST) at Cypress Bend Marina.
The Bassmaster CastingKids program and will hold a competition prior to Saturday's weigh-in. From 10:30 until 1:30, youngsters ages 7-14 will have the opportunity to pitch, flip and cast a lure in this popular program. Local winners will advance to state competition and state winners will compete for valuable scholarships including a $5,000 scholarship to the champions in both the 7-10 and 11-14 age groups.
The event will be conducted by the Louisiana BASS Federation. Members of the Federation will also be on-hand to provide youngsters with instruction in the proper techniques for flipping, pitching and casting.
The event from Toledo Bend will be telecast on ESPN2 in two parts, with part one airing on Saturday, March 1, at 10:30 a.m. (ET) and part two on Saturday March 8, at 10:30 a.m.