RI Visually Impaired Persons Fishing Tournament
Fishing Tournament
The Visually Impaired Persons (VIPs) Fishing Tournament is a half-day fishing trip for Visually Impaired Persons of RI on a Frances Fleet party boat out of Galilee, RI.
The event is free of charge to the VIPs and their Guides and assistance will be provided to those that do not bring a Guide with them. Fishing is followed by a presentation of prizes and awards when we return
to port.
The RI Lions Sight Foundation held its 1st Annual VIP Fishing Tournament for Visually Impaired Persons of RI in June of 2008. The Tournament is organized by the RILSF and is supported by donations from RI Lions Clubs and individual donors.
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Awards and Trophies
Participants compete for one of several trophies and an opportunity to represent Rhode Island at the North Carolina Lions National VIP Tournament. Frequently VIP teams from Connecticut and Massachusetts will also be part of the National VIP Fishing Tournament.
Two (2) of the top “eligible” winners will represent Rhode Island at the National VIP Fishing Tournament to be held normally in October on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. (“Eligible” means that they have not gone in the previous 2 years)
If needed, a 3rd National Team Representative will be selected, regardless of score, by a lottery from a list of VIP competitors who have not previously attended the National Tournament.
The intent of this rule is to ensure that as many VIPs as possible get the opportunity to have this experience.
The North Carolina trip also includes competing in the Annual New England Lions Tourney
where we compete against VIP’s from the other participating Northeastern states.
More information on the National Tournament is available at http://www.ncvipfishing.org and on Facebook at “NC Lions VIP Fishing Tournament Inc.”
2024 Fishing Tournament for Visually Impaired Persons of RI
The RI Lions Sight Foundation (RILSF) will be hosting our 17th Annual VIP Fishing Tournament for Visually Impaired Persons (VIPs) of Rhode Island on a charter party boat out of Galilee RI.
The Tournament is organized by the RILSF and is supported by the RI Lions Clubs and individual donors. The event includes, a boxed Lunch, a morning of fishing on a Frances Fleet party boat followed by Awards and Prizes when we return to port. The tourney is free of charge to all VIPs and their Guides, but donations are always appreciated.
The requirements for eligibility are:
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Legally Blind Rhode Island resident
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At least 17 years old
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Are physically able to fish from a party boat.
Guidelines are:
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To maintain a level playing field for all VIPs, you must use the Rods and Bait provided and no switching of poles between VIP & Guide is allowed.
(If you are not competing, you are welcome to use your own gear.)
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We will be providing light Breakfast beverages and food during registration, but you may bring your own food and drink if preferred.
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The Tournament will be followed by an Awards Luncheon at the Carriage Inn. (Meal selection will be made at registration)
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If you are able to fish without a full-time guide, that is helpful in allowing more VIPs to participate. You will still have the assistance of the Crew and other Guides as needed.
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We also suggest that you bring a small cooler to safely keep the great fish you catch for your enjoyment at home. Ice is available.
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We will assist with transportation as needed
If you are interested in attending the RI Tournament, please complete the Application & Waiver (link below) and send it to the address shown on the application.
Please remember to include your signature.
NOTE: Guides must also fill out an application.
*** Deadline for receiving Applications is June 21st (by either by US Mail or Email) and will be accepted on a “1st come 1st served” basis***
For further information, feel free to contact either of the following committee
members.
Lion Ken Barthelemy, kenbar123@aol.com 401-447-4228 (Phone or Text)
Lion Bill Hawkins, rhodydaytrippers@yahoo.com 401-450-2659 (Phone or Text)
We look forward to you joining us!