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Tofino's 5th annual Saltwater Classic fishing derby set for this weekend

Westerly News This week Friday marks the kickoff of the 5th Annual Tofino Saltwater Classic fundraiser fishing derby.

Former NHL player Brendan Morrison will host the event, limited to 125 anglers, July 5 and 6. Anglers from from all over the Island, the Mainland and Alberta and the United States.

From the meet-and-greet to the angling action and the Saturday banquet and live auction of items ranging from hockey memorabilia to great local dinners, it's a fun weekend, said Morrison.

There's fishing competitiveness and bragging rights and side bets - but underlying everything, a commitment to a good cause.

"The big thing for me is that it really hits a lot of the grassroots programs and initiatives in Tofino," Morrison said, citing $135,000 raised for the community over the event's four-year history.

That list includes everything from the hot lunch program helping kids concentrate at the Wickaninnish School to the Salmon Enhancement Society that builds sustainable salmon runs, the Tofino Hospital Foundation, the Tofino Volunteer Fire Department, Tofino Parks and Rec and The West Coast Multiplex Society.

"It's a great thing for the community, and a lot of people from Tofino get involved to make it a big event. We appreciate it," said Morrison.

Register online at at www. tofinosaltwaterclassic.com, where $250 per angler includes meet-andgreet event with Brendan on July 4 at the The Shore, plus Dinner and Silent Auction on July 5 at Marina West. Generous cash prizes will be awarded in several categories.

Proceeds benefit Tofino Community Initiatives.