BAIT – Blind Anglers International Tournament – an annual fishing tournament tradition for the visually impaired that has been happening for 30 years. Going into its 31st year, the tournament is organized by the District 4 (A4 Lions) group of Lions Clubs of which Stittsville Lions are included. This year it is taking place May 24-26 at Springwood Cottages, Kennebec Lake, near Arden, Ontario.
Stittsville & District Lions Club are the hosts this year and again next year with assistance from other local clubs. Stittsville Lions President Paul Riddell is the Chairperson.
What makes this tournament so special? Each blind angler is partnered with a sighted guide for the weekend. Each pro angler is an experienced angler with a fishing boat large enough for the him/herself plus one to two others. Canadian Guide Dogs has a person onsite to care for the guide dogs while their owners are out on the lake having a great time doing what they love.
The weekend will include a ‘red carpet’ dinner on the Friday evening, with breakfast, lunch and dinner provided on the Saturday. The weigh-in of fish will take place Saturday afternoon with awards presented and a bit of socializing taking place at the dinner. After the provided breakfast on Sunday, participants will head home.
All costs are covered by donations and sponsorships from the A4 Lions Clubs of eastern Ontario and western Quebec. Each Club has sponsored a team, a visually impaired angler, prizes and accomodation for each Lion guide or worker.
If you know of a visually impaired angler who would surely enjoy this weekend of camaraderie, contact Lion Dave Furgoch at 613-699-8412. If you want more information or would like someone to talk to your group on the importance of BAIT, contact Lion Paul Riddell at 613-836-3336 or by email at riddellpaul7@gmail.com.
What a fantastic opportunity that the Stittsville & District Lions Club and the entire A4 Lions community are providing to visually impaired anglers.
