Monday, March 14, 2011

2011 Marines Helping Marines Fishing Tournament

Wounded veterans of all branches of the Armed Forces will be participating in a bass fishing tournament with both pro and semi-professional anglers at the Anchor Marina in North East, MD on Armed Forces Day, May 21, 2011.

Veterans from Walter Reed and Bethesda hospitals will participate as a two-man team in a fundraising tournament that benefits the Marines Helping Marines Foundation which helps fund weekend retreats for wounded veterans in outpatient care and assists military service members and their families in time of need.

This is the third year the event will be held however it is the first time the event will be held in Maryland.  The two previous events were held at Lake Hopatcong, N.J.

The veterans participating have sustained injuries ranging from traumatic brain injury to amputation of one or two legs, and in some cases, loss of arms as well.

The cost of the tournament is $200 a boat and is open to anyone with a bass boat and valid Maryland state fishing license.

Entrants who take on a wounded veteran as a partner receive a $100 discount however they do so with the understanding that if they win half of their earnings should go to their partner.

The equipment the veterans will be using has been donated by various companies to include Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s.

“Bass Pro Shops has been a huge supporter of this tournament,” according to organizers.  Each year they donate rods, reels, and nets for each of the wounded participants.

Travel, lodging, meals and gifts for the wounded veterans are being paid for by donations made to this event.  Funds are still needed in order to help with lodging and meals costs for the veterans and their families.

The wounded warriors get to keep all the equipment they are provided with.  Once again this year the veteran who wins the tournament will receive a one week stay in Cancun with his or her family.

Kowal said “We are trying to give these heroes one weekend out of the hospital so they can meet new friends, have a good time and in the process, help raise funds to benefit other wounded veterans.

Check-in time for the tournament is at 4:30 a.m. and the boats will launch from the Anchor Marina at first safe light, usually right around 6 a.m. and return at 1 p.m. for the official weigh-ins.

A barbeque which is open for all to attend will begin at 12:30.  The cost is $10 per adult, $3 for children.  The barbeque will be held at the Nauti-Goose Restaurant, 200 Cherry Street, North East, MD, 21901.

For more information, registration or become a sponsor please visit www.semperfimarketing.com or email info@semperfimarketing.com

Because there is an 80 boat maximum on the water it is best to pre-register for the tournament by mailing the bottom portion of the flyer with payment to Joby Poster at RR#4, 4166G, Saylorsburg, PA 18353.

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