PRESS RELEASE: 10th Annual Saltwater Classic Fundraiser Results

10th Annual Saltwater Classic Fundraiser Fishing Derby Nets Additional $75,000

to Support Tofino Youth and Community Programs 

Event’s Total Funds Raised to Date Exceed $575,000

Tofino, British Columbia, Canada, July 10, 2019 – Former National Hockey League (NHL) player Brendan Morrison today announced that the recent Tofino Saltwater Classic Fishing Derby fundraiser event, held for the 10th consecutive year from July 5-7 in Tofino on the west coast of Vancouver Island, raised more than $75,000 — bringing the total amount raised since the event’s inception to more than $575,000. All proceeds from the derby are donated to a number of Tofino community beneficiaries, with the bulk of funds going to support the Wickaninnish School PAC Healthy Food and Literacy Programs.

“Even after a decade, our derby and its various events continue to attract avid anglers, generous sponsors and donators, and passionate volunteers, all of whom contribute to our success,” said Tofino Saltwater Classic Fishing Derby host, Brendan Morrison. “My family and I are immensely proud of the positive impact the derby has had on so many Tofino community programs. We offer our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated, and we look forward to continuing the fishing and fundraising tradition next year.”

130 anglers participated in the 2019 Tofino Saltwater Classic, which included a catch-and-release component for Chinook prizes for the first time. The winners and prizes were:

1st Place Chinook (31.2 lbs): Shane Johnson - Prize $6,000
2nd Place Chinook (28.53 lbs): Jeff Vandenhoorn - Prize $3,000
3rd Place Chinook (27.24 lbs):Mike Lee - Prize $1,500
Top Coho (11.8 lbs ): Morgan Ottridge - Prize $1,500
Top Halibut (45.32 lbs): Devin Botting - Prize $1,500

 “The Tofino Saltwater Classic continues to serve as a model for community collaboration and fundraising,” said Tofino Mayor, Josie Osborne.  “Dozens of tireless volunteers work side-by-side with local and regional businesses and individuals to produce a well-organized fundraiser where every penny raised goes to important local programs. I can’t thank Brendan and Erin Morrison enough for their vision for what has become a beloved and hugely successful event. Their ongoing  support and guidance mean a great deal to me and so many other Tofino residents.”

In addition to participant registration fees, the Tofino Saltwater Classic raised funds at a silent auction, and by private donations from Tofino residents and business owners from around the province.

Dates for the 2020 Tofino Saltwater Classic will be announced later this year.

About the Tofino Saltwater Classic http://www.tofinosaltwaterclassic.com

In its tenth year, the Tofino Saltwater Classic fishing derby was created by former National Hockey League (NHL) player Brendan Morrison as a fundraiser for Tofino community initiatives.

Event and Media Contact

Lynda Kaye, Kaye Public Relations for the Tofino Saltwater Classic
e: lynda@kayepr.com    p: 250.266.5293

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