To the Editor:

The first annual Christopher Ray Memorial Scholarship Fishing Tournament hosted Saturday, June 19, exceeded even the most optimistic of expectations.

Raising over $5,500 and hosting over 40 competitors, it certainly showed signs of an event that will only flourish in years to come.

Our success could have never been achieved without the outpouring of support from friends, family and neighbors. Their support through donations, time, energy and love turned Christopher’s tragic loss into a lasting tribute.

More than just a weekend many of us will look forward to for years to come, but an event that will keep his legacy alive through giving back to the community.

I would like to thank the fishermen who came out and participated in the event. None of this would have been possible without your participation.

A special thank-you goes out to Greg Vick, whose guidance and tournament experience provided insight and organizational expertise that resulted in the entire weekend running smoothly.

To all the volunteers who passed out posters, registered participants, handed out water and all the other things too numerous to mention, thank you, thank you, thank you.

Words cannot express the gratitude to the many of you who, although couldn’t participate in the event, provided financial support with your contributions — Christopher’s family and I are overwhelmed with your generosity and kindness.

And lastly, I would like to thank my mother, Esther Francis, for making this idea a reality. Without her, none of this would have ever been possible. We did it, Mom! Thank you.

See you all next year. Again, thanks to all.

“Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.”

John 15:13

John Barksdale

Courtland