2011 FISHING DERBY

The 57^th annual Albert J. Pirone Memorial Fishing Derby and Cookout sponsored by the Ayer Sportsmen’s Club was held Saturday June 1^st, and it’s fair to say that a great time was had by all.

About 110 individuals, family members, staff and providers gathered at the water at the Sportsmen’s Club about noon on a perfectly beautiful Saturday afternoon. The sun was shining brightly, the temperature was perfect in the mid 70’s, the grounds were lovely…we couldn’t have asked for a more perfect setting. Members of the Sportsmen’s Club, their volunteers and the local Boy Scout troop all worked hard together to make this day special for all participants.

The afternoon began with the gathering of many old friends who see each other at this event each year and look forward to this all year long. They greeted each other and warmly welcomed new participants. A cookout lunch of hamburgers, hotdogs, chips and soda were cooked and served by Club members and volunteers.

Once lunch was over, fishing began in earnest. Club members passed out poles and bait, put worms on hooks and gave some quick fishing pointers and directed folks toward the pond. About 70 people chose to fish while others opted to watch or just socialize in this beautiful setting. The Boy Scouts joined Club members to assist individuals at the waterfront in casting, reeling in fish, carrying fish to the weigh station, re-baiting their hooks, doing so in a respectful and friendly manner. They were all terrific!

I had the privilege of assisting at the fish weigh station, recording each person’s fish as they caught it. The Sportsmen’s Club volunteer took each fish off the hook and measured it (No, I did not do that job). As she called out the type of fish and its length, I recorded it by the fisherperson’s name. The very best part of my job was seeing the look on each person’s face while they were getting their fish measured. The pride, the sense of self-esteem and success, and the pure joy on each face was totally awesome.

The day ended with results and prizes and dessert. Forty-three people (out of about 70) caught at least one fish, which was amazing.

The third prize winners were Conrad Boudreau with a 14.5 foot trout and Hannah Tassone with a 12.75 inch trout. Second prize winners were Sandy Seaver with a 13 inch trout and Kevin Lavoie with a 14.75 inch trout. First prize went to Michael Gorman with a 15.75 inch pickerel and Jean Roux with a 13.25 inch trout. The overall grand prize winner for the day’s biggest fish was Brian Cote who caught a 17 inch trout.

Thanks to all who participated in this delightful day.

About the Author: Eileen Ganong

Eileen has managed residential programs, worked as staffing coordinator, presented staff trainings, qualified families for Shared Living/AFC placements, been instrumental in designing new program models and has participated in developing an array of services within the Family Support and Recreation program she currently directs.