July 24, 2021 "18th Annual Chickensnake Blackfish Tournament"

Rayden was nominated to be the recipient of the 18th Annual Chickensnake Blackfish Tournament. I was surprised because I had never heard of this before and it is right here in our community. We were honored to accept the nomination. 

The tournament began at 8am with 69 teams signing up! Everyone left at 9am to begin fishing for blackfish. We were told that Rayden was the first recipient to be able to attend and actually fish in the tournament. Even though Rayden, Papa, and I tried very hard, we were unable to catch anything. Michael and Uncle G caught 5 fish. Weigh in began at 5pm. They set up a chair for Rayden to watch all the fish being weighed in. He was amazed at how big some of the fish were. 

Everyone enjoyed a chicken or BBQ dinner, followed by tons of raffle prizes and door prizes. Rayden enjoyed pulling out every raffle ticket. He was soon awarded a new, red fishing pole and minnow bucket before they called Michael and myself to the front. When they presented us with a super large check for $23,358 I almost fainted! They said this was the largest tournament they have ever had with the most money raised as well. 

Justin Williams and Ethan Barefoot did a fabulous job heading up the tournament. There were so many passionate volunteers working behind the scenes as well. They even decorated everything with Rayden's favorite color, red. Words cannot express how touched we were by everyone's generosity and compassion. Rayden has been through so much in his little life already, and it is priceless to see him smile. 

Justin Williams brought the benefit check to our house September 21. It was actually MORE than they originally said! $24,685.00. AMAZING!!!!