MILT THOMAS

The Kiwanis Club of Vero-Treasure Coast held its 25th annual “Take A Kid Fishing” tournament this past Saturday on the catwalk under the Barber Bridge, attracting more than 300 participants. The catch-and-release tournament is for children ages five to 12 with an accompanying adult. For many, it is their first experience fishing.

Registration began at 8:15 a.m. and the tournament itself lasted from 9:00-11:00. Prizes were awarded for each age group and a special prize for the ugliest fish was awarded. All adults and kids were then given a hot dog and hamburger lunch with drinks and chips, followed by an award ceremony at the adjoining MacWilliam Park.

There is no cost for participation. If kids do not have fishing gear, it is provided by the club. Bait is also provided and the lunch is also free. The tournament was sponsored by Oculina Bank and George E. Warren Corporation. Co-chairmen were Jason Kittendorf and Jim Wolfe. Kiwanis president, Kevin Brown, expressed the club’s sentiment, saying, “This event is fun for everyone in the club and takes a great deal of prep time, especially preparing the fishing equipment. It is so typical of Vero Beach activities, family oriented and full of good spirit.”