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Martha’s Vineyard Surfcasters Association For Release – 9 August 2004 Information – Jeff Sayre (508) 693-4841 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom Kieras Wins Martha’s Vineyard Surfcasters Association’s 2004 Chappy Shark Tournament A field of sixteen competitors challenged their patience and courage to catch the largest shark from the beach during the 2004 Chappy Shark Tournament sponsored by the Martha’s Vineyard Surfcasters Association. Tom Kieras caught first honors by beaching a 6 foot 1 inch Brown shark estimated to weigh more than 125 lbs. Second place was captured by Steve Purcell with a 66" Brown shark while Carl Deerhing placed third with a 61" Brown shark. Ed Willoughby received honorable mention for his 56 ½" Brown shark. The annual event was held over the week ending August 8, 2004 for members of the association. Proceeds from the entrance fees are used to support the club’s introductory fishing programs for children such as the Boys and Girls Club fishing trips onboard the Skipper. According to Captain Russ Lawrence, Chairman of this year’s shark fishing tournament: "This year’s event was a great success with four qualifying sharks caught and beached. Two of the sharks were tagged and released unharmed and two were taken for table fare with some of shark steaks used at the awards barbeque. Several anglers discovered the ferocity of these magnificent creatures when they hooked up and fought them only to have lines parted or hooks pulled straight". Greg Skomal, one of the East Coasts foremost experts on sharks attended the awards ceremony and expressed his gratitude for the clubs interest in tagging and releasing sharks for scientific study. The purpose of the Martha’s Vineyard Surfcasters Association is to encourage the sport of surfcasting and interest in sport fishing; to gather for entertainment and good fellowship; to promote and uphold sound conservation practices and laws, and to see that these laws are properly enforced and carried out by members; to further good sportsmanship; and to seek and protect public access to fishing areas on Martha’s Vineyard. Membership in the non-profit group is open to all and information about joining is contained within the website. For information about the MVSA please call Jeff Sayre at (508) 693-4841, email info@mvsurfcasters.org, or visit the website at http://www.mvsurfcasters.org. (end) |
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