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Organizers propose million-dollar world championship bass tournament at Sanders Ferry Park; board approves pending site map and beer-board review
Summary
Event organizers told the parks board they plan a multi-day 'world championship' bass tournament in October with about $2.8 million in prize money (including $1,000,000 for first place); the board approved the event pending site-plan approval, beer-board review for alcohol and designation of a nonprofit beneficiary.
Organizers seeking to host a large bass-fishing event at Sanders Ferry Park told the Hendersonville Parks Board they expect thousands of visitors and large economic activity tied to an expo and live weigh-ins. Brian Byrd, presenting on behalf of the organizers, described proposed dates (Oct. 26–31) and an event plan that would include concerts, vendors and live broadcasts.
Byrd said the tournament’s prize purse would be substantial: “We are paying out over 2 point I think it's $2,800,000 in prize money. First place is 1000000 dollars to the winner,” he said during his presentation. He also described plans to partner with a major venue for an expo and to host vendors and programming that could draw national attention.
Board members asked for clarifications about fees, alcohol service and site layout. Staff recommended that the board approve the event subject to conditions: a final site map must return to the board for approval if alcohol will be sold, the local beer board must approve any alcohol service and organizers must identify the designated nonprofit beneficiary for donations.
A board member moved to approve the event with those stipulations; another board member seconded the motion and the board voted in favor. Staff said they met with the organizers and their legal and event consultants and will continue to vet details, including site-layout plans and coordination with the beer board.
Organizers emphasized economic opportunity and potential hotel and rental demand for the area; staff and board asked organizers to return with a site map and finalize nonprofit designation and any alcohol permits before the alcohol portion proceeds.
