This past weekend, Murray State University inched past the University of North Texas by a little more than a pound to win the 2009 BoatU.S. Collegiate Bass Fishing Championship.
The event, which many believe to be the premier championship at the collegiate level, was held at Lake Lewisville, Texas. Over 140 teams from more than 70 schools were registered.
Kalem Tippett and Vincent Campisano of Murray State led day 1 with 21.66 pounds, then delivered 14.50 pounds on day 2 for a 2-day total of 36.16. The team worked an offshore ledge on day 1 for four of their five fish, and the same ledge produced a winning limit on day 2.
When asked about the win, Tippett noted: "This is a huge step toward my goal of establishing a career as a bass tournament pro. We want to thank our sponsors – Hinton Archery, Neace Lukens Insurance Co., Jet-A-Marina, Laboratory Supply Co. and Mr. C Refrigeration."
The full details of the team's winning pattern will be posted soon.
Coverage of the event, as well as coverage of the 2009 regional tournaments leading up to the championship, will be televised on Versus (Saturday mornings at 12:30 EST beginning in August).
Prior winning schools include North Carolina State (2006), Texas A&M University (2007) and University of Arkansas (2008).
Final Standings
1. Murray State -- 36.16
2. University of North Texas -- 35.36
3. Northwestern State University -- 33.02
4. Eastern Kentucky University -- 29.66
5. Louisiana Tech University -- 29.56
6. Virginia Tech -- 29.45
7. University of North Alabama -- 29.09
8. Louisiana Tech University #2 -- 28.46
9. Texas Tech -- 28.25
10. University of Kentucky -- 26.83
