July 2011- CLA Gamefair Blenheim Palace .
03/08/2011
Gerard Downey of Carron created a piece of history at the CLA by breaking the Speycasting World Record in the Grand final on Sunday July 24th, with a magnificent cast of 70.63 metres (77.24 yards or 231foot 7 inches) and left the platform to a standing ovation from the assembled crowd. This record is remarkable and could stay for a very long time as the original Spey casting distance pioneer Alexander Grants 65 yard record stood for over 111 years, with only three people including Gerard beating it since. Gerard actually broke his own World record three times over the course of the weekend. A momentous achievement Gerard and a pleasure to witness, a hearty congratulations from all at Carron.
Gerard Downey receives first prize from the Duke of Marlborough.
The grounds and lake in Blenheim Palace grounds were the venue for the 2011 CLA Gamefair, huge crowds flooded through the gates all weekend and enjoyed Speycasting of the highest standard. The weather was kind on all three days and the crowds were not to be disappointed at the high standards on display. The International Open Speycasting competition has yet again found a sponsor, a company from the USA dealing in real estate and high end game holidays, their name was Open Fences and they laid on a fantastic stand and rest area for all competitors and spectators to use.
Carron sent a four man team to the CLA to compete in the competition, with three of the four making it to the prestigious Open Fences International Open Speycasting Grand Final on the Sunday.
A special mention must be given to Travis Johnson of Carron, A fishing guide specializing in Steelhead on the Rivers Deschutes and Sandy in the Pacific North West, Travis travelled all the way from Oregon USA to take part in the competition, he was a revelation all through the qualifying heats with some magnificent casting. This was Travis first 18 foot competition and he maintained his second place throughout the weekend with a magnificent qualifying score of 64.5 metres. Travis is the first man in the USA to beat Alexander Grants long standing record, with a final score of 62.59 metres (68.44 yards or 205 feet 3 inches) A future first place contender from the USA, a hearty congratulations Travis all your training has paid off.
Travis Johnson receives second prize from the Duke of Marlborough
This years competition was particularly pleasing as there was a healthy competitor entry, with lots of new faces taking part in the competition for the first time, which is very encouraging as it can be a daunting prospect walking onto the platform in front of an assembled crowd for the first time. The camaraderie on display was particularly pleasing as most people left the show having learned something new to help their technique or hone their casting skills. Seiichi Kaneya made the trip all the way from Japan on his own and acquitted himself very well with a creditable fourth place.
James Chalmers receives the winning manufacturer’s trophy from the Duke of Marlborough on behalf of the Carron Rod & Case Company.
The Carron boys with their trophies thank Travis Johnson of the USA for his momentous effort.
Pictured from left, Travis Johnson, James Chalmers, Gerard Downey, and Iain Gardner.
The three Carron Finalists enjoy their success after the Open Fences Speycasting Final.
I would like to say a special thank you to the organisers and sponsors in particular the Salmon & trout Association and Michael Evans for their tireless efforts over the course of the weekend, looking forward to Belvoir 2012.