The 4th Annual Bass Fishing Tournament near Warrenton, Virginia resulted in a superb turnout with plenty of bass boated by happy anglers. The majority of anglers were Purple Heart recipients, most of them from nearby Fort Meade in Maryland. The event was organized by the Paralyzed Veterans of America- Outdoor Recreation Heritage Fund (PVA-ORHF).
Each angler was guided by a bass fisherman, who donated their time and provided their personal boats for the cause. Many of the fishermen compete in local bass tournament circuits. Boat Captain Ken Kirk, owner of K2 Guide Service and former U.S. Marine, guided SSG. Rush who took the top prize with five bass weighing in at 6 lbs.8 oz. All anglers were awarded prizes, whether they were in the top running or not.
Jim Zumbo, Television Host of Jim Zumbo Outdoors and the National Co-Spokesperson for PVA-ORHF Fund assisted with the event. "I don't miss a chance to surround myself with American heroes who've made tremendous sacrifices for our great country." Zumbo said. "I witnessed beaming smiles all day and many confide what getting out and enjoying the outdoors has done for them." added Zumbo.
Jack and Shelly Hazel, owners of the Huntley Farm Lake and host of this annual fishing tournament, spent the day talking with the troops- men and women, and made every effort to ensure each participant enjoyed their time while there. The Hazels' have a special interest in disabled veterans and military heroes. In addition to fishing trips, they have constructed wheelchair accessible hunting stands on the property and have spent the past several years accompanying veterans on hunts.
Sponsors for this event included Burger King in Warrenton, VA, Popeye's Chicken & Biscuit, VA, Pepsi Beverage Company, New Baltimore, VA, Alibi Catering, Haymarket, VA, The Piedmont Republican Women's Club of Fauquier County, VA, and ER Shaw Inc. Gun Barrels in Bridgeville, PA.
Virginia Army National Guard Sergeant Kari Brewton from Petersburg, VA started the day's festivities by performing our National Anthem on her trumpet and concluded the day with her emotional rendition of Taps.
PVA-ORHF is dedicated to raising the funds needed to make sure America's wounded heroes have the opportunity to participate in outdoor activities to enjoy themselves, and as part of their rehabilitation process as they re-enter mainstream society. To learn more about PVA-ORHF or to learn how you can support these deserving wounded heroes, go to www.pvaheritagefund.org, www.100000patriots.org or call Marsha Stumpo at (540) 349-5090.
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