400 Youngsters Are Hooked On YMCA Fishing Festival

NEW PORT RICHEY More than 400 youngsters ages 5 to 12 lined the river bank at Sims Park today (Sept. 13) for the annual YMCA Kids Fishing Festival.

Christian Blackburn won first place among boys during the first session this morning.

Jason Hernandez caught the biggest fish.

Scott Pirozzi caught the smallest fish.

Isaac Rodriguez caught the most fish.

Among girl contestants, Sophie Viera took first place.

Lexi Michaud landed the biggest fish.

Alexis Brooks had the smallest fish.

Contestants who caught fish preserved memories of their catches before throwing the fish back into the river. Ink impressions of the fish were made on cloths that the youths could take home.

With the help of sponsors, children received a new rod and reel, tackle, a bait bucket, a T-shirt and lunch for a donation of $10.00. YMCA scholarship recipients fished for free.

Staff from James P. Gills Family YMCA in the Trinity area and the NPR SunTrust YMCA put on the annual event. Julio Vega, West Pasco Operations Director based at the Gills YMCA, led the team.

The Fish On Fishing Club rigged some 450 poles for the young contestants. Chet Jasak of the club measured all fish. Danielle Girouard also served in the measurement tent.

Commissioner Michael Cox helped cook hot dogs for lunch as part of the Gary Joyner crew, which included volunteers Chris Chittum, Zach Drewes, Mike Voorhees and others.

Gulf High School NJROTC helped serve lunch.

Allan "Hudson" Brady Productions set up the loudspeaker system for its announcers who played background music.

Other sponsors included SunTrust Bank, Southern Sun Landscape Contractors Inc., Greg Henry Restoration Specialist, Crab Shack Tiki Bar and Grill, Landmark Awards, Progress Energy, The Tampa Tribune, The Suncoast News, Port Hudson Marina, Case Contracting, CFIA, Graphix, Great Bay Distributors, Avatel, Progressive Air Systems, the city of New Port Richey, and ABCO.