It is with deep regret that the Old Salt Fishing Foundation has to postpone our 39th Annual Old Salt Loop Tournament and the Mike Alstott Family Foundation Inshore – Offshore Shootout hosted by Galati Yacht Sales. Due to the Deep Water Horizon Oil Spill, NMFS has a “closed fishery” in our most prized blue water fishing grounds. With the uncertainty of possible future closures and no forecast of when these pristine fishing grounds will be reopened we felt it necessary to postpone these prestigious events until further notice.
“The Loop Tournament is an tradition for billfish anglers and the foundation of our organization”, says president of the Old Salt’s, Tom Verdensky. “Not only are we disappointed for our anglers who have invested time and money, but also for our foundation which has planned a phenomenal event at Galati Yachts in beautiful Anna Maria Island this year. Our biggest upset is for our charities! We host these events to raise money for The Children’s Dream Fund and The Mike Alstott Family Foundation which both will feel a financial impact due to this postponement. The total economic impact is extremely significant, Anna Maria island and other coastal areas, tackle shops, marinas, hotels, restaurants, etc will all be greatly effected by this postponement and the fallout of this tragic event”.
The Mike Alstott Family Foundation’s Inshore Offshore Shootout has become a well known fishing tournament in the community. An exciting points style event, which gives all anglers the opportunity of winning will be missed by our anglers. But not to worry, this event will carry on with a date to be determined in the near future.
“Teaming up with the Old Salt’s has been a great fit for our foundation, say’s Mike Alstott. Our foundations have the same core beliefs and goals to raise money for children’s charities and help those less fortunate. We are looking forward to planning this event again with a successful out come for charities, anglers, sponsors and communities alike”.
A message we want to send loud and clear is that the Old Salt’s will continue in everyway possible to assist the scientific community to maintain our natural resources with any means possible. We will keep members and the public abreast with the most up to date information. While maintaining a positive outlook and moving forward with the rest of our years scheduled events and tournaments as planned. We want people to know that there is no oil in our near shore waters right now so go enjoy our beautiful Gulf waters and GET FISHING!
The Old Salts would like to thank all of our anglers, supporters, our local communities and government for their continued support and the proactive approach to this unfortunate catastrophe.
For questions please contact Old Salt Tournament Directors
Tom Verdensky: 727-439-7945
Jill Foraker 727-422-6420
www.OldSaltFishingFoundation.org |
