Kevin VanDam

Off day — not so much

July 27, 2010
(bassmaster.com, July 27, 2010)

MONTOMGERY, Ala. — Monday’s off day for the top 12 Elite Series anglers was anything but.

Though those vying to win the Toyota Tundra Bassmaster Angler of the Year title were kept busy, a day off the water was a welcome relief from an Alabama heat wave.
Media day

After a morning session of TV shoots, they gathered for a media day luncheon, where Montgomery Mayor Todd Strange announced the Elite postseason would be coming back next year.

Beside the economic benefits, Strange said being host city to the events offers tremendous exposure. He was out of the country and saw a TV ad showing his city.

“You can’t buy that kind of publicity,” he said.

After being treated to roasted beef tenderloin, broiled fish and shrimp cocktail, a meal many said was absolutely the best ever in years of BASS travels, the anglers met the media. Each sat at their own table conducting interviews.

After Russ Lane won the Ramada Trophy Chase on Sunday, the point standings were reshuffled and are much closer, making Friday’s Evan Williams Bourbon Trophy Triumph a tossup.

“The next one is definitely anybody’s ballgame,” Edwin Evers said.

There was still talk of Aaron Martens’ fish-care penalties that cost him the Chase, and many worried about when they would have time to prep their tackle and take care of personal business before Wednesday’s first day of practice on the Alabama River.

“My biggest concern right now is getting my dirty underwear clean,” said Skeet Reese, who had his lead trimmed to five points.

The anglers then learned they need their big bass pants on Tuesday. Anne Wood, public relations director for Hope for the Warriors, has rounded up 12 wounded soldiers from across the nation to fish an exhibition with the Elites.

“You guys are rock stars to these guys,” Wood said. “They were chosen because they are avid fishermen.”

The program, which was started by three Marine Corps wives, is dedicated to bringing attention to injured military men and their families.

John Crews has been involved in various other wounded warriors events and comes away each time thinking that he’s not the real star.

“It is often the other way around,” he said, relating some of the experiences he’s been told. “These are the guys who sacrifice so much for our country.”

The anglers were also presented with a topographical map to The Waters, a private trophy bass lake where they will guide the soldiers. Seconds after seeing it, Crews, pointing to a road bed, told Kevin VanDam, “There’s going to be a rush for right here.”

A short respite, and it was off to Bass Pro Shop in Prattville, where the anglers lined up for an hour-long autograph session with several hundred fans.

Clarence Hodges of Wetumpa brought his wife, Olivia, sons Brayden, 7, and Jakob, 11, and friend Josh Ward, 15. They literally sweated out Sunday’s weigh-in — it was too hot to go Saturday — and rooted for Lane (because their favorite Mike Iaconelli didn’t make it this year).
Media day After leaving the Prattsville Bass Pro Shop, Russ Lane was hustled to the home field of the Montgomery Biscuits to throw out the first pitch.

The Hope for the Warriors presentation was next, with the matchups announced. The soldiers were also given a $200 gift card to shop with their pro to prep for Tuesday’s fishing.

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