Sign-ups for the Chad Morgenthaler Bass Tournament for Special Olympics Illinois will be taken through 6 p.m. CST Friday.
Morgenthaler has teamed with Special Olympics Illinois and the Law Enforcement Torch Run to host the tournament. Partners in the event include Jasper Engines & Transmissions and the Franklin County Tourism Bureau.
The tournament, which takes place this Saturday and Sunday at Rend Lake in southern Illinois, will benefit Special Olympics Illinois athletes.
The weekend includes the 2-day team-format tournament, "beat the pro" fishing and casting contests, a family fun zone and a chance to win prizes. Other pros to participate include Greg Pugh, Terry Tucker and Terry Bolton.
Morgenthaler first became involved with the Special Olympics last year when he donated a day-long fishing trip as part of an online benefit auction. This year's tournament marks a significant increase in his involvement.
"I was inspired by the courage and enthusiasm shown by the Special Olympics athletes," Morgenthaler said. "After talking more with Special Olympics Illinois, we agreed a fishing tournament would be an exciting way to introduce the organization and its athletes to a previously untapped audience of fishermen."
> Entry is limited to the first 200 boats to register. The $210-per-boat entry fee includes the big-bass pot.
> For entry forms or more information, contact Jeff Henson at Special Olympics Illinois: (800) 394-0562, email him at jhenson@soill.org, or visit the organization's website at www.soill.org.
