While the weather outside will likely set this Classic apart from others, the registration line is pretty much standard fare. These guys don't talk about fishing in this line, but there have been plenty of deer tales to go around. Or elk tales, if you are Clifford Pirch. Most of these guys are renewing old friendships, gathering up in bunches and sharing their stories.
The only one keeping to himself is Todd Faircloth. He looks like the kid in trouble or the guy no one wants on his team. That's not normally the case with one of the most-liked anglers on tour. Today, though, Faircloth is suffering from a case of pink eye. So goes the trials of a father with young kids.
But the timing is terrible. We hate it for him. The anglers hate it for him as well, but not enough to console him.
Either way, some of us are praying for a speedy recovery. It's one thing to deal with the weather, another to deal with while you are sick.