SHREVEPORT-BOSSIER CITY, La. — Everything starts with a “launch” of some kind, and the 2012 Bassmaster Classic is no exception. When 49 of the best bass anglers in the world prepare to take off from Red River South Marina, Feb. 24, 25 and 26, the Red River Waterway Commission will be there as presenting sponsor of the launch and the hospitality tent offering complimentary coffee and doughnuts for fans attending the beginning of each competition day.
But coffee and doughnuts aren’t the only perks being offered as a result of the RRWC’s sponsorship. B.A.S.S. will produce a limited number of specially branded Red River Waterway scorecards to be distributed by RRWC staff at the Bassmaster Classic Outdoors Expo, held at the Shreveport Convention Center, Feb. 24-26.
A select group of lucky fans receiving a scorecard will have the opportunity to view the weigh-in from floor level just in front of the stage. B.A.S.S. will dedicate an area of the CenturyLink Arena in Bossier City for a group of 50 specially selected fans to be known as the “Red River Waterway Scorekeepers.”
“Our Classic sponsors are a special group,” noted B.A.S.S. Chief Executive Officer Bruce Akin. “In addition to being supporters of the great sport of bass fishing, they understand the value and importance of its biggest stage — the Bassmaster Classic. By partnering with us to elevate this event, they’re helping to rise the tide of an entire way of life for millions of Americans and others all around the world. The Red River Waterway Commission has done a great deal to help bring B.A.S.S. to the Red River, but also to show its commitment to this resource, this community and the great outdoors.”
“We are happy to welcome the Classic back to the area, and we are excited about the opportunity to showcase the Red River and all its amenities,” said Red River Waterway Commission Executive Director Ken Guidry. “In 2009, the Red River established new Classic records for the heaviest total weight and the heaviest average catch per day. We believe the Red will produce even better fishing this time around.”