THE National Federation of Anglers Individual National Angling Championship, introduced as part of the NFA’s centenary celebrations, is to be sponsored by British Waterways.
The event is being fished on the Fossdyke Canal between Lincoln and Torksey Lock on Saturday, September 20, 2003. The top two points earners in each team who competed in this years Embassy National Championships have been invited to fish the prestige match which could have an entry of around 300.
The Fossdyke Canal is regarded by many top flite matchmen as the fairest canal in the country and now the competitors will be fishing for a top prize of £2,003 – thanks to British Waterways (BW) who have stepped in to sponsor the exciting event. NFA Competitions Officer, Mick Turner, says: “We thought the match would be popular and now it will be one of the best cash prize events in the country. BW has generously sponsored the competition with £3,000 and we thought it appropriate that on our 100th birthday the winner should net a first prize of £2,003 with the remaining £997 being spread out in the prize list.”
NFA President Ken Ball commented: “We are delighted BW has sponsored this important event. The Fossdyke Canal is the oldest Roman canal in the country and it is well maintained and well stocked. By their generous sponsorship, BW has made this an event of great importance.”
BW angling co-ordinator, Mick Wilson, added: “The Fossdyke Canal is a first class water and perfectly suited to a high profile event like this. This is a special occasion and the competitors want to fish a water that is fair for everyone. We are pleased to be able to sponsor the event and turn it into one of the top matches in the country.”
National Federation of Anglers Membership Services Manager, Bob Clark, said: “Clearly this event has been well received. This important sponsorship link with BW has added the one ingredient that was missing – a good cash prize. This will be a popular sponsorship with the anglers who will recognise that both the NFA and BW are working together to improve their sport.”