CELEBRATION, Fla. - Walt Disney World Resort honored Kevin VanDam, the 2005 Bassmaster Classic champion, with a parade in the Magic Kingdom today.
VanDam was joined by his family and the entire cast of Disney characters as he led the parade down Main Street, USA.
The 38-year-old angler, who is planning to defend his title on Lake Tohopekaliga in Kissimmee, Fla., on Feb. 24-26, 2006, has earned 15 consecutive Classic berths, won the Super Bowl of bass fishing in both 2001 and 2005 and generally is regarded as one of the greatest "power" fishermen to ever compete. He was named by fans the fifth greatest angler of all time in ESPN's Greatest Angler Debate earlier this year.
Tonight at 7 p.m., VanDam will be the featured guest on "Sports Talk Live" at the ESPN Club on Disney's Boardwalk. VanDam will be interviewed and take questions from guests.