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NEWS | Oct. 8, 2008

ORC, Wrenwoods host fishing derby, campout

By Staff Sgt. Sam Hymas 437th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

The 437th Force Support Squadron Outdoor Recreation Center and Wrenwoods Golf Course recently hosted two events designed to bring families together and provide some outdoor fun for Team Charleston members.

The Charleston AFB Fishing Derby and Camp Little Links were held Oct. 3 and 4 here and more than 100 people participated in the two events.

The fishing derby was held at the base pool where the facility was prepared in advance. The chlorinators in the pool were turned off and algae was allowed to grow. After the water was safe for fish, 200 pounds of striped bass were put in the pool. The fishing began five days later, said Merill Troxell, ORC director.

Organizers of the event had live minnows on hand to use as bait, though worms and artificial bait were equally effective for catching the fish as well.

"There was a lot of cheering for people when they caught fish," said Ms. Troxell.

About 20 fish were caught by participants and filleted on the spot by Aaron Sales, Wrenwoods Golf Course manager.

"The whole concept worked but we learned a lot," said Ms. Troxell. "It was definitely experimental; no one has ever tried this here in South Carolina. Next time we'll let the fish get used to their new environment for longer."

The night before the fishing derby the campout was held at Wrenwoods Golf Course for families looking to enjoy a night out under the stars.

"We wanted to bring people out to the course who don't have time to come golf and create a quality of life experience for families with children," said Mr. Sales. "It was also an opportunity to introduce the game of golf to some people."

Participants were able to set up camp, have dinner and play nighttime golf using glowsticks on the putting green. A breakfast spread was also provided in the morning.

"It gave me an opportunity to spend some quality time with my family," said Lt. Col. James Petrick, 437th Logistics Readiness Squadron commander, whose family participated in both the fishing derby and the campout.

Both of Colonel Petrick's sons have had golf lessons and were excited about the campout and the opportunity to practice their putting skills.

"Aaron Sales made the event," said Colonel Petrick. "His personal touch and professionalism really made the event special."

For more information on upcoming ORC events, call 963-1732.