Submitted

The 5th Annual Dillon County Shrimp-Caster’s Contest was held on Sunday, August 25, 2013, at Kathi and Brownie Campbell’s pool.

As in the past, the contestants were given three throws in each division: 3-foot, 7-foot, and 8-foot net. They were judged on shape of net and how well the net covered the bait.

The 8-foot net division was won by Latta’s Jimmy Fore with second going to Bunker Hill’s Daniel Coleman and third to Hamer’s Denis Grubb.

The difficult to throw 3-foot net was won by Denis Grubb with second going to Richard Calhoun and third to Jimmy Fore.

The 7-foot net provided the day’s most excitement. After the scores were tabulated by the judges, Kathi Campbell, Jerry Richardson, and new-comer Gene Varn, three of the contestants were tied for first place. Since this was a first for the contest, it was decided that there would be a one cast throw off, no practice.

First cast was made by Richard Calhoun who threw a near perfect net. One of the spectators remarked that the best the other two contestants could hope for was a tie. Second place went to Mickey Dew who came close and third place to Jimmy Fore who also threw another good net.

It should be noted that with this win, Richard Calhoun threw off a five year numerous second place finish jinx. The judges did an excellent job judging all nine contestants.

Before the spectators and contestants enjoyed a catfish and shrimp stew, a few words were spoken in memory of Mr. Tommy Squires. Mr. Tommy was a founding member of the Dillon County Shrimpers, a past judge of the contest, a mentor, and a friend. A toast was made in his honor.

The meal was provided by Richard Calhoun, Jerry Richardson, and Kathi and Brownie Campbell, and cooked by Tracy Pelt. Desserts were provided by Mac Campbell, Jimmy Fore, and Doris Pelt. Surprisingly, it appears that home-made banana pudding and German chocolate cake do go well together.

If you are interested in competing or attending near year, the contest will be held the last Sunday afternoon in August, 2014.