Reeling in fun, memories
The 14th Annual George Modock Jr. Fishing Derby is July 21
Cassidy Doyle, 10, didn’t make the leader board but was pleased nonetheless with this 14-inch fish he reeled in during last year’s derby. File photo by JAIME ANTON
NORTH ROYALTON – Kids, fishing poles and sunshine … it’s the stuff memories are made of and the intent of a popular event hosted year after year.
It’s the 14th annual George Modock Jr. Memorial Fishing Derby planned Friday, July 21 at Memorial Park Lake.
This fun, family-friendly event, hosted by the Modock family, is meant to honor its namesake who was an avid fisherman and enjoyed bonding with his children over fishing poles. The Modocks want others to make those same memories and encourage a love of one of their favorite pastimes even after the derby.
“We all have so much going on in our lives. This is a way to turn the on button off for a while and just enjoy nature and each other,” said Sue Roth, Modock’s daughter. “It’s something everybody can do, girls and boys, it’s not based on physical ability, it gets kids outside in the fresh air spending time with parents and grandparents and siblings, it teaches patience, it’s relaxing. Turning off the electronics and talking, having family time … we need to do more of that.”
Hosted from 10 a.m. to noon, the derby is divided into three age categories — the 7-9 division, 10-12 division and 13-15 division. Those who land the biggest catch in each age group during the two hours win.
First-, second- and third-place contestants each receive a trophy. First place in the 7-9 division also receives $25, first place in the 10-12 division receives $50 and first place in the 13-15 division earns $75.
Ethan Clow, of the 13-15 age group, is the reigning champ with the biggest catch of the day last year, a 21-inch fish.
The city’s recreation department, as always, will pitch in measuring fish and keeping track of the leader board.
Reeling in a trophy fish works up an appetite, so afterward, everyone will be treated to hot dogs, chips, cookies and water.
All are welcome and may register the day of the event beginning at 9 a.m. at the Memorial Park’s lower pavilion, located at 14600 State Road. The event and registration is free.
Children who have their own poles and bait should bring them. There will only be a limited amount of poles and bait available for those who don’t have them. Families can bring their own chairs.
It’s the 14th annual George Modock Jr. Memorial Fishing Derby planned Friday, July 21 at Memorial Park Lake.
This fun, family-friendly event, hosted by the Modock family, is meant to honor its namesake who was an avid fisherman and enjoyed bonding with his children over fishing poles. The Modocks want others to make those same memories and encourage a love of one of their favorite pastimes even after the derby.
“We all have so much going on in our lives. This is a way to turn the on button off for a while and just enjoy nature and each other,” said Sue Roth, Modock’s daughter. “It’s something everybody can do, girls and boys, it’s not based on physical ability, it gets kids outside in the fresh air spending time with parents and grandparents and siblings, it teaches patience, it’s relaxing. Turning off the electronics and talking, having family time … we need to do more of that.”
Hosted from 10 a.m. to noon, the derby is divided into three age categories — the 7-9 division, 10-12 division and 13-15 division. Those who land the biggest catch in each age group during the two hours win.
First-, second- and third-place contestants each receive a trophy. First place in the 7-9 division also receives $25, first place in the 10-12 division receives $50 and first place in the 13-15 division earns $75.
Ethan Clow, of the 13-15 age group, is the reigning champ with the biggest catch of the day last year, a 21-inch fish.
The city’s recreation department, as always, will pitch in measuring fish and keeping track of the leader board.
Reeling in a trophy fish works up an appetite, so afterward, everyone will be treated to hot dogs, chips, cookies and water.
All are welcome and may register the day of the event beginning at 9 a.m. at the Memorial Park’s lower pavilion, located at 14600 State Road. The event and registration is free.
Children who have their own poles and bait should bring them. There will only be a limited amount of poles and bait available for those who don’t have them. Families can bring their own chairs.