FLW Outdoors was forced to cancel the FLW Tour event on the Red River due to hazardous conditions on the waterway from recent flooding. The event was slated to start in the morning. More details will be available shortly.
Here is the press release from FLW Outdoors:
FLW Outdoors announced that due to unsafe conditions on the Red River, the FLW Tour event scheduled in Shreveport, La., Feb. 10-13, along with the Family Fun Zone & Outdoor Expo, has been canceled.
“This was a tough, tough decision,” said Charlie Evans, President and CEO of FLW Outdoors. “After consulting with local authorities and FLW Outdoors staff members, we feel this was the best decision for the safety of the anglers. Unfortunately there is not a winning formula and we apologize for any hardships resulting from this decision. The weather in Shreveport has been a little cold, but the hospitality shown to our staff, partners and anglers has been very warm.”
"We will do this again,” said Mary Ann Tice, Executive Director of the Shreveport Regional Sports Authority. “Shreveport has beautiful blue skies and the mighty Red River, and we look forward to [FLW Outdoors] coming back to show its talents."
Bart Schad, representing Ranger Boats, who was serving as presenting sponsor for the event stated, “We applaud our partner for making the right decision."
“I know there was a lot of money invested, but I think it was the safest thing to do,” said National Guard pro Brent Ehrler. “The river is so high and the current is so fast, there were a couple of times I was really scared [during practice]. Many of the channel marker buoys are underwater and you can't tell what color they are, it was scary. All the ramps are closed except for the launch, so if you get in trouble out there it could be very dangerous and a long time before anyone could even get to you."
The decision was made after much consideration as well as exploration of every other possible alternative to ensure the safety of our anglers and FLW Outdoors staff members. This marks the first time an FLW Tour event has been canceled since the 2001 Forrest Wood Cup was canceled due to the 9/11 attacks.
The 2010 FLW Tour season will now consist of five qualifying events and the Forrest Wood Cup, the world championship of bass fishing.
