Fishing, golfing tourney in the works

As April transitions to May, Relay for Life of Hot Springs County will host the first ever Drift and Drive Tournament, in memory of Helen Davis and Eddie Brister.

Davis’ granddaughter Nikki Slagle said Davis was a former Thermopolis resident and an avid fisher. Though her grandmother passed away in 1993 from pancreatic cancer, Slagle said those memories of her grandmother’s fishing are among her fondest.

“I honestly don’t remember her not fishing.”

Slagle, a member of the Relay for Life core team, was visiting with Jonathan Schmidt of the American Cancer Society out of Casper, and he mentioned the popularity of combined fish and golf tournaments. The idea struck her as a way to honor her grandmother.

After learning of Eddie Brister’s passing from cancer, Slagle asked his family if it would be okay to attach his name to the event. After a discussion, they agreed. Brister, Slagle added, was also an avid fisher and golfer.

The tourney allows for two-person teams made up of two adults, two children or one of each. However, the top prize of $1,500 and runner up of $500 are only available to teams of adults. The junior prize of $250 is for teams of kids only, and the pals prize of $250 is for mixed teams.

Entry fees are $75 per adult and $35 per child.

The first day of the tournament, April 30, is for fishing. Participants can fish anywhere between Wedding of the Waters and Skelton Boat Access. Fishing guides are available for $500. The price includes a guide and boat for one team, and must be paid by April 1.

As for the golfing day, May 1, play will be at the Legion Golf Course. For those who don’t want to play on a standard course, Dairyland’s mini-golf course will be available. Slagle noted those who choose the miniature route are not eligible for prizes.

Slagle described the event as a powerful opportunity for Thermopolis in terms of bringing people into the community and providing an economic boost.