Tournament Results

[Steel Shootin']

Congratulations – The Results for the Spearboard Open

Tournament Champion: Dan MacMahon – 147 points
Top Female Diver: Sheri Daye – 107.5 points
Top Junior Diver : Chris Hill – 114 points
Biggest Grouper : Paul Renner – 31.7
Biggest Snapper : Jerry Lancaster – 17.5
Biggest Hogfish : Les Orr – 18.6
Biggest AJ/Cobia : Les Orr – 49.4
Biggest Sheepshead/Trigger: Henry Pacheco – 6.9

Best Boat: Les Orr and Slay Ride

The Top 50

Macmahon, Dan
Zacker, Ritchie
Sloan, Kenny
Orr, Les
Renner, Paul
Harding, Rob
Lacass, Ken
Schmidt,John
Dewaine, Mark
Pacheco, Henry
Hill, Chris
Hampton, Rick
Simkims, Steven
Zelenka, Steve
Daye, sherrie
Giuseppe, Tortorella
Simkins, Chuck
Milner, Tim
kenyon, Kyle
Bonsey, Lou
Nobile, John
Karcher, Nole
Joswig, Matt
Delacruz, Jason
Kenyon, Brad
Jonas, Jamie
Roberts, Torie
Waters, Rich
Hudgens,Chris
Taylor,Rich
Newman, Bill
Lancaster, Jerry
Shelton, David
Killebrew, Kurt
Collins, Mark
Green, Al
Addison, Dan
Thomas, Rob
Huffman, Mark
Hermes, John
Phillips, Dean
Jones, Paul
Mabie, Leffords
Suarez, AJ
Serio, Jay
Dauzat, Dvid
Reitz,James
Sloan, Albert
Billenbourg, JC
Szczygiel, Stacey

The Complete Results - Click This (http://www.spearboard.com/openresults.htm)

[SLAYER]

i wanna see some pics please

[Rolo]

Congrats to all the participants, particularly Scott and his gang for setting something of this magnitude up. Looks like a very large turn out. Wish I could have been there to meet some of the guys and gals.

One question:

How many freedivers if any entered?

Thanks!

[keezdiver]

97th place baby....:cool:

cool

[speario]

i cant wait to see the pictures :)

[inletsurf]

I think we can all rest easy knowing one true thing that was proven in this tournament:

John Hermes (Spearchucker) has out-speared Capt.Jay (Awesome Angler) on both Spearboard Open's. I guess after all the friendly rivalry between the two it almost seems apparent to me that Spearchucker is more awesome than the awesome angler at spearing!

:D

[ScubaNewsGuy]

What a great event.

The turnout and support was incredible. I knew it was going to be big, but I could not even have imagined the size and scope of the tournament. It blew me away. The venue was great, the people were great, and you can't say enough about everybody who worked hard to make it happen and all those people who participated.

Congrats, excellent job folks.

[sniper]

My god what did everyone think about that band????

[Spearchucker]

OK, must be honest, band sucked

[Marcus]

Personally, I really wasn't interested in the band playing. I thought the music they played was fine, but way too loud. I was interested in conversing with fellow spearfishing people and the band made that quite difficult. I believe a DJ playing an eclectic mix of background music would've been ideal. My 2 cents.

[Steel Shootin']

When I got home last night I made a list of several things I would change for next year, so, without tipping my hand too much, here are some of the basic things I told a sponsor I was thinking about changing this morning:

1. A DJ that can provide some atmosphere with background music, and enable better communication between sponsors and participants, and so that everyone can communicate better.

2. The weigh-in line will be under the small pavilion, so that persons in line will be protected from the sun.

3. A second weigh-in line.

There are several other ideas I have noted on how to improve things, and any suggestions are welcomed.

[Spear One]

Musically, I thought the band was fine. It was just a little too loud for the size of the venue. You can't anticipate everything, still a stellar event!

[Bigfish53]

i can't imagine a better venue. Plenty of parking, plenty of room all in all just a great spot.

[sniper]

Scott has covered the few minor things to make the event perfect...Over all a great event...

[ogredive]

What no prize for the worst boat? I had 4 guys bust butt to get less than 10 points.:D

Seriously,

We all had a great time, the venue was great and got too meet some great people.

THANK YOU SCOTT, for letting me be a sponsor and for such a great event.

CUDOS to Chris for busting ass in the weigh in. I am surprised you still have a voice.

Thank you all for stopping by and chatting with me even though I didnt have anything flashy to show.

Thank You to Denny and Carie for turning me on to the stress balls, now everyone got a chance to squeeze my balls and they seemed to keep the kids busy. Got tons more if anyone wants one.

I am proud to be part of this event.

THANK YOU ALL!

[junior]

Great job to all those who busted their asses to pull off a great event. Thanks a bunch. I like all the suggestions and ideas.

My only suggestion would be to have the weigh in line run down the west side of the building so that it would be in closer proximity to the crowd and also be in the shade. That way everyone in line and everyone in the pavilion can interact a little more easily, showing off fish, getting beers/food and just BS'n while in line. The line and weigh station should be more of a focal point of the tournament like last years was. Although I have nothing against the band, I thought they pulled attention away from the weigh in. If you 86'd the band, you would also have a lot more room under the pavilion for everything. And, I'm pretty sure you're gonna need more room next year after the success of this weekend:cool:

It was nice to put some more facesto names. I shared the line with Bugged and Bluewater Rocket and they are some nice folks. But, you never know who the hell you're talking to til they tell you their spearboard name and then your like ohhh, so your the guy:D How about some cheesey name tags next year:D

[kitefisherman]

Congratulations to everyone that competed! I only wish that I could have been there. I hope that this will encourage everyone to make it to the 2 great tournaments that are coming up: the Southern Open and the St. Pete Open. Look forward to meeting many of my SB brethern that I missed seeing at this year's SBO. Great tournament Scott!

[Sheri]

Junior, I think name tags are a GREAT idea!

[WreckDiver]

Yea, I just knew I was going to get stuck in the line like that:d Junior did you see the priceless look on my wife's face when I introduced you guys:eek: you were not at all like i had pictured you. The music was a little loud for socializin. and couple of fans for the masses.

[junior]

Originally posted by Bugged
Yea, I just knew I was going to get stuck in the line like that:d Junior did you see the priceless look on my wife's face when I introduced you guys:eek: you were not at all like i had pictured you.

What did you think I'd be wearing...some Birkenstocks, a tie dye and maybe some dread locks?:D I must admit she did get a funny look on her face. It was great to meet you guys!

[liberty hound]

I thought it was great!
my family and I had a great time!
I do have one suggestion, Pleeeeease consider having the shooting on friday and the weigh-in on sat. Offshore Jax was covered up on sat. and it was very hard to find places to dive.
I have wed. and thurs. off and did not realize how bad it can get on the weekends. We hit at least 4 or 5 spots before we finaly got to dive.

[Spearchucker]

Liberty

I hear what you are saying, but attendance would plummit if it required everybody to take a vacation day to participate.

[WreckDiver]

Originally posted by junior
What did you think I'd be wearing...some Birkenstocks, a tie dye and maybe some dread locks?:D I must admit she did get a funny look on her face. It was great to meet you guys!

Well at least you combed your hair:D and yes it was good to meet you and your wife and allot of other people too. maybe we should go shoot some fish sometime. What did that big hog weight?

[junior]

He was 15 pounds. About 3 shy of the carolina hogs. I'd like to see the full score card with weights when they get put together. Let's go shoot:cool:

[Simply Scuba]

Fantastic job Scott, only you could pull off an event like this. It was incredible for your second year. Guess you'll have the #1 tournment in the southeast next year at the rate your going!
That was the way to go HeadHunter, enjoy that vacation.

[Ed Walker]

I had $100 on Dan McMahon. Time to pay up guys!

[SpearDiverTampa]

Scott the tournament was great. You are THE MAN...enough said. The food was awesome.

Chris you did a great job keeping the never ending weigh-in line moving. It takes dedication to weigh fish for many hours, sprint off to a quick hobo shower out of 2liter diet coke bottles behind your truck, toss on a clear pair of clothes and continue to cohost the event!:)

Amazing job Headhunter crew...especially captain Dan. It takes a hell of a captain to not only win the tourney, but nearly win best boat as well with 8 guys onboard.

It was great to have the opportunity to and compete with more fellow spearboarders.

Thanks for a great time!

-Chris

[Reaperspear]

Scott awesome tournament, truly enjoyed it. How about some shirts for kids next year. Went to buy my boys some shirts and there were none in thier size. If anyone is wondering that was my BBQ riddled son that did the drawings.

P.S. he said the food was great.

[kitefisherman]

Anybody know who won the North Carolina trip raffle prize?

[f94gator]

Shooting both Friday and Saturday puts those who can't take a day off at a big disadvantage as well - only 1/2 as much time to dive?
I don't think there's a perfect set-up that makes everyone happy, but I think the current one is as close as we're going to get.

[snooker]

I agree, it was a little aggravating going out and having boats all over the place. But I'm sure we're not the only ones to have boats on our spots. It's how you handle the adversity.

It was a good turn-out and was glad to see the weather cooperated as well.

[Chad Carney]

Multiple day tournaments, or rodeos as they call them up in LA & AL, last as long as 3.5 dive days. They solve the questions of diving early, outside of the rules, and fit in with many charter boat schedules. They give inshore and offshore divers another day to go to plan B sites, such as the bay & shallow artificials for the other categories. Less hook & line weekend warrior traffic, and safer diving again by taking away the time limit pressure. A bigger weather window to avoid cancellations due to high seas or poor visibility.

*If a diver can't take a Friday off for the SBO, one of the Worlds Greatest Open Spearfishing Tournaments... it's just not important enough to him/her!
Ya gotta get dem priorities straight in life!

How's this 2.5 day schedule look?

Thurs PM: Captains meeting, optional. Tournament opens.
Fri: Dive, dive, dive.
Sat: Dive, dive, dive.
Sun AM: Dive. Weigh-in opens at 9am & closes at noon.
Sun PM: Dive displays, nice background music, lunch and drinks, kids games: (Is the triggerfish toss too diss-ing? How about beat the prizes out of the Goliath? Pin the PH on the man in the gray suit?) Sounds like fun for adults too?
Awards and prize picks.

My $.02

The 2004 SBO set a precedent of excellence!!

Chad

[WreckDiver]

Originally posted by Chad Carney
kids games: (Is the triggerfish toss too diss-ing?

Chad


I did not think anyone say my boy doing that:D :D pictures to follow later.

[liberty hound]

Chad, I agree. taking a day off is not a problem.
I took three days off for the sbo.
Even on most of the everyday dive trips, someone on the boat has took the day off.
Saftey is also an issue. After I dropped the jug on one of the small ledges I like, It was like a magnet for the other boats in the area to come over and start trolling, (and yes we had the flag up)

[HeadHunter]

HHHMMMNNNNN..if you give them big ol' slow boats two days to shoot fish in places they can't get to in one day..................well, it would get real interesting!!!

[Chad Carney]

Dan,

Congratulations! Very nice fish.

You could have gone a day early this time, and just not shot for the tournament until Sat morning.
Some boats did, and I heard that at least one of them even showed the fish they did not turn in. Another boat did the same in a Key West tournament last year and also was above board about it.
That kind of honor is refreshing to see, but not the norm unfortunately. I think it would make it less tempting to cheat by making the rules fit the desire.

While we're talking about changes, let me run this one by the board.

Change the grouper limit to only two.
Yeah it fits the FL east coast limit, and that's convenient too, but that's not my reasoning.
Change all of the categories to only two fish, (Except AJ/cobia).
In the St Pete Open we rarely shoot more than 4 to 6 fish per diver all day, because we're only looking for trophy fish. One good one for each category we're shooting in.
Aggregate tournaments compell divers to shoot fish they may normally pass up. I know I felt that way this time.
Look up the word aggregate and you'll see the word MASS referenced many times.

I had a lousy day and still bagged 4 snapper, 1 triggerfish, 2 grouper, 1 hog, and 1 AJ. 9 fish total. I lost about 4 fish also, like I said, a lousy day.
My first snapper was the biggest, so in the SPO I would not have shot another unless it was bigger or at least a fish I could be proud to shoot. I past up some legal grouper, hogs and triggers because they were too puny! They all would have raised my score, but I didn't want to shoot small fish to accomplish that end.

Freediving tournaments are even worse with their 20 fish limits.

I don't think we need fish volume to show who the best shooters are. In fact waisting time on small fish can detract from getting the fish of a life time!

Hmmm?

Chad

[diligaf]

Chad,

The format of a multi-day tournament strongly favors larger boats w/cabins that can carry more tanks, fuel, etc. Most of the contestants are on smaller boats that cannot be out for two days at a time. Others that travel from other areas to dive would also be forced to take two days off work. So in the end… you would probably have far fewer contestants.

This year’s format was excellent. Three fish per category requires more skill and strategy. I know some on the east coast don’t like the three grouper rule… but the East coast groupers are on average larger… this also must be taken into planning for east coasters and they may decide to go for the larger fish or travel over to the Gulf and compete.

The only thing I would consider changing is making the sheapshead/trigger category double points for either species or neither species.

Just my thoughts,

Dave

[Jaizzen]

I believe that this years format was outstanding. The playing fields were pretty even, as the weigh-in showed. People from different geographical locations shot and placed high in the rankings, this impressed me. I appreciate the fact that this format is different than other tourneys (in my opinion, they shouldn't all be the same ).

As for quantites of fish, I shot no more than I would on a regular basis, I'd actually say that the tourney made me shoot less due to the fact that I was trying to hunt various species to fill my card.

I took Friday off to go out on the water and scout with the Holy Spear-It, and did'nt weigh those fish shot on Friday as I hoped all others who read the rules would do the same.

I ended up short an AJ on Saturday, but was beating the 40lbers off of me with the butt of my gun on Friday. Had this been a two dayer, I'd have added that 35 to 40lb AJ along with the 19.01lb hog that I shot on Friday that didn't weigh in to my total therefore increasing the total amount of fish taken for weigh-in at the tourney. I believe that a smaller tournament window is more likely to reduce the total number of fish taken. Besides, alot of people take charters for this and other tournaments. People who pay for middle grounds or offshore charters are going to try to shoot their fair share of fish outside of trying to place in the tournamnet anyway. I know that there are some charter boat captains out there that understand this.
As for dishonesty at the weigh-in, changing the format to a two day format is just going to cause those who will cheat to hunt on Thursday to obtain the same advantage.

This is just my opinion, Hope next years tourney was as good as this one.

Jason

[ROCK BOTTOM]

Just show me where I can find a hogfish in my area and I might be willing to listen to your argument. I thought the tournament went pretty well and don't think it needs any changes. And, if your solution is to just "travel over to the Gulf and compete", then you probably should stay in Pompano Beach and be a non-competitor. If you look at the results of the SBO, then you will see that skilled divers from three different geographical areas were in competition for the major prizes.

Also, the multi day format just makes it that much better! Two weeks from now is the Hell Divers Rodeo, FOUR days of shooting. Three solid days of offshore diving means I can cover a lot of territory to find the big fish. And, I guarantee that the morning of our weigh-in, Ralph Luther, a retired Hell Diver, will be swimming the sea wall in Lake Pontchartrain for sheepshead, looking for a big one to win the category and four others to compete for the five-fish sheepshead stringer category.

Now I am not saying that four days would suit the SBO, but surely a second day wouldn't be bad.

Zz

[Jaizzen]

I wouldnt object to a second day in the Open, I'm just simply responding to Chad concerning reducing the number of fish taken for scoring. I'm from Baton Rouge, but now live here on the FL Gulf Coast. I'm used to large quantity fish tourneys at home, but here in Floirda, it's a bit different as there is greater pressure on the fisheries and oposition from Activist Groups. Chad was stating that he wouldnt mind reducing the number of fish taken but extend the tourney by another day. I understand where he is coming from but I feel that it would only increase the total number of fish taken here for the reasons I stated in the last post.

Would'nt mind seeing the second day in the tourney, it would have helped me this year! It would allow the guys who have to travel more time to get here.

As for the sheepshead rule, I think it balanced the regions, just look at the top 50.

I'll say it again, this is just my opinion, Hope next years tourney was as good as this one.

[f94gator]

Personally, I'd rather revel in the success of the past SBO than debate the merits of different formats for next year's. We've got a lot of time to worry about that. :)

[diligaf]

Originally posted by ROCK BOTTOM
And, if your solution is to just "travel over to the Gulf and compete", then you probably should stay in Pompano Beach and be a non-competitor.

Zz

Huh??? I'm not sure what you mean by this, but maybe I should explain what I meant a little better.

Many people have trailerable boats and can dive on either coast. Others take charters and may choose to dive a different area. The current rules add to the planning and decisions of these divers... it has nothing to do with staying home and being a non-competitor.

[Spear One]

Scott has reduced the bag limits for each category and raised the size limits on each species. There is not much more you can do from a public relations/enviromental standpoint. I think the current sizes and bag limits are perfect. There was well rounded placements from shooters in all the geograhpical areas. I do favor the 2 day idea though.

[RichT]

After taking an informal poll of a few friends I believe that extending the tournament by another day would see far fewer competitors.
MOST people have to balance work,kids and family along with diving.
There are already 3 major tournaments in West Central Florida along with three minor tournaments.
MOST people dont have enough tanks for two days of diving.
And finnally, WHY FIX WHAT IS NOT BROKEN!!!

[Spearooo]

Chad What you said was untrue. The format cuased me to shot much less fish than I normally would on an MG charter, After I had my three snappers I passed on litteraly hundred of 4 and 5 lbs mangos that i would have blasted on any other day in hopes of getting my trophy sheepie or trigger, the same goes for Gags, After getting my 3 I stopped even stalking any fish close to the size of the ones I weighed in hopes of not missing a shot at a monster convict fish. Granted if the fish was clearly an upgrade or I was in a bad mood id take it but the claim that the formatt causes people to shot more fish, is BS. If you are looking for ways of shooting more fish read fncladvrs post: Strategy, Strategy, Strategy. makes a big diffrence.
Besides the format you suggested would most likyle just double all the points of of those on big boats, ( Headhunter would ett 280+ points) So youd be just as hard pressed to blow us away with your monster trophy fish...
THe Formatt was great.....

[snooker]

You're right, the number of competitors will decrease but I don't think by that many. Maybe someone should take a poll to see what people favor.

I too agree, this format does not make you shoot more fish. Once you fill the categories, you're off to the others and IF you see a trophy, it will take the place of one you shot. On a regular trip, you're "giving fish headaches" when you hit the bottom to fill the limits.

[Steel Shootin']

Rich, I tend to agree, but the most attractive thing to me about two days of shooting would be less chance of cancellation, figuring that at least one of the two days would be all right weather-wise . Would people not participate if they could only get out on Saturday, out of concern that they would stand no chance against people that will be out both days?

OTOH, if the one good day was the weekday, and Saturday was a blow out, turn out could be very low, so that may be no good. I think you're right, but will certainly make for some interesting discussion at future meetings.

[Spearooo]

Oh yeah, I had a lousy last couple of drops and still shot about another 60-70 lbs of fish that didn't make it to the wiegh line, since they were repeats....

[ROCK BOTTOM]

RichTaylor,

What is up with your CAP key? I have never seen anyone use it like you do. Are you angry? SEEK HELP - GET THERAPY

Zz

[snooker]

But Scott, don't you think that if it was a blowout on the day of shootingm, there would be less of a turnout than if there was a blowout on 1 of the 2 days of shooting.

I also believe that the people that can get out one day would do that. Yes, this is in fact a tourney and I placed ok but I had a great time at the same time.

[Slay Ride]

Then....what constitutes a "blow-out". The boys in SC and NC fished 40-50 nm offshore in 4-6 ft seas with 20 kt winds on Saturday while the Gulf guys were sipping Gin and Tonics with their pinkies extended Friday night waiting for the sun to come up over LAKE GULF OF MEXICO. We ain't complaining, but it was freaking tough as hell for us but no one cares.

[Spear One]

We care Les!

[Spearooo]

Two days of shooting does sound interesting........

[Slay Ride]

Originally posted by Spear One
We care Les!

Thanks Kevin!! Wasn't looking for any sympathy, just saying that to promote a multi-regional tourney, weather conditions are a factor. If the Gulf is blown and SC is flat and the tourney is moved back a week and then it's vice-versa the next.......but the tourney happens....just things to think about, that's all. I'm still icing the bruises. Great to see you again. Les

[biggsy]

Originally posted by Slay Ride
while the Gulf guys were sipping Gin and Tonics with their pinkies extended Friday night waiting for the sun to come up over LAKE GULF OF MEXICO.

Hey only the free dive guys were doing that ! :D Word is that they were sipping Zimas.

Originally posted by Slay Ride
Then....what constitutes a "blow-out". The boys in SC and NC fished 40-50 nm offshore in 4-6 ft seas with 20 kt winds on Saturday

I would have hated to have seen what you guys would have brought down if you had "calm" seas.

[gumshoe]

You go Les!

For what it's worth, I think the plan for this event went great. It allowed some of us from further away (team Spearit, Wilmington, NC) to participate when we would not usually consider it.

I agree, that for many of the above mentioned reasons, a two day tournament may be a better fit for some boats, especially a larger "overnighter" that may take less people to the Middle Grounds for multiple days of diving. That would, however, hinder local small boat owners and would require those of us from further away to make an even larger time commitment to participate.

I hope it stays as is, & promise to shoot the right kind of jack next time

:)

[Chad Carney]

Gentlemen,

I seem to have touched on a nerve!

I believe the 2004 SBO was an extraordinary tournament. See my other posts. Scotts willingness to try new ideas and tried & true ideas from other areas are some of the big reasons for it's success. The 2005 SBO will be unbelievable, regardless of the format!

Many of you agree that an extra day would be no problem and add dimensions and safeguards to the tournament.

Some of you think two days would drop entry numbers and favor only large live-aboard boats.
I'm wondering how many of you have experience in multi-day tournaments? Or do you just have crystal balls?

Today's go fast boats would still have as strong of an advantage on a two day trip as they do on a one day trip, long range and more time to dive, and they could fish a totally different direction on the second day. The moderately slow guys are stuck where we pick. Everybody would get double the time.
Mid-shore guys don't usually stack up with the way offshore guys on a one day tournament for grouper, snapper, hog and AJ anyway. It has always been that way, and that's why there are inshore categories. I fished 20' to 22' boats over more than a 2 decades in the St Pete Open and the best I ever got was 2nd AJ in offshore categories. But I still competed every year and won some nice prizes, and wouldn't have missed it for the world!

Rich, the first SBO and SPO were not and have never been broken, but now the SBO has the new Sunday weigh-in format and a best boat category. You know better than anyone when the SPO went to a Fri start and a Sunday awards presentation. These were improvements not repairs. BTW how did you like the Sunday weigh-in?

Rock, it was good meeting you and congrats on your strong finish! You and David Dauzat know how cool multi-day rodeos are better than all of us Florida boys. I've done 2 and I like 'em. (Ralph was an amazing weigh master with just a note pad on a clipboard! He looked at me like I pissed in his beer mug for taking those sheepie categories last year.) I'll see you at the Hell Diver Rodeo in less than two weeks!

Les, congrats as well! Sorry we did not get to talk. I never get enough time at these tournaments.

Bucket...just piss off! Want to arm wrestle for $100?

Jason, kudos for showing that hog you didn't weigh in, I just heard about it last night! I can believe many divers would shoot the same amount of premium fish even with a lower aggregate; but no way would they shoot more, especially not small fish and fish in low demand like sheepshead and triggers.

Some divers shoot the same amount of fish in aggregate tournaments as they do in big fish tournaments. Many shoot far less. Some of the St Pete Open guys would probably have that data. I've seen the coolers, big and impressive, not overly numbered.

Spearo...with all due respect you need to make up your mind! "a one day format is great and the two day format is not" (Not an exact quote, but it's the jist of what you first said)... then "two days would be intersting!" ????
You "passed on shooting hundreds of fish"...I'm really glad to hear that!
Then you quoted my very reasons, that lower aggregate limits will produce less kills. ????
Finally, "if I'm looking for ways to shoot more fish, blah blah"... how did you ever get that idea?
I shoot fewer fish these days, tournament or no, because I want quality not quantity!

Look around everybody, sportfishermen the world over are converting to catch and release. It's only been a handful of years since we had mystery fish tickets...(kill everything you can and redeem them for raffle tickets.) Times change and if we want to still have spearfishing as a sport and tournaments in which to compete, we need to let those old days go, and we better pay attention.

BTW Dave, since when are east coast grouper bigger than west coasters in late May? (Warsaws excluded)

Just some of my thoughts, but I could be wrong!

Chad

[Spearooo]

Whats the problem with saying you love the tournament and then suggesting something you said sounded interesting. Im not saying I would have killed hundreds of fish had it not been for the tourney im saying the limit was reasonable, and much more restrictive than the current regs. All im saying is I could have easily limited on mangos but chose not to bc. I already had my three tourney fish. Believe me the fish I weighed were trophies in my eyes and weren't the result of a aggregate induced killing mode. Whats the problem of suggesting that had it not been for the tourney I would have done my best to limit on Mangoes the most provolent fish that day, personally I try not to shot mangoes less than 16-17 inches at the minimun, and at this one spot we went to, there was litterally hundreds of 20+ inchers granted not many true monsters but all very nice. I got three fat ones and called it a day on the snapps untill I saw a bigger one..
o yeah I only weighed 7 fish...No massacre..
I quess its just youthful indecission on my part, or mental rambling to suggest a possible change to something as great as the SBO
about the SBO III........

:D :D :D

[Spearooo]

If you are going to quote like that, ill tell you the truth, I was throwing you a bone:cool: to suggest what you said sounded interesting, I never said two day tourney format was no good all I suggested is we better prepare for an even more severe A$$ whoping from Headhunter. What you suggest is also an oxymoron lower the limit to shot less fish and then make it two days to shot more fish.. To me what sounds interesting is the fact of getting the most out of my diving experience since for me this was one the the biggest events all year, imagine what the SC could have done in 2 days....

[Charlestondivin]

If we had to shoot 2 days in 4-6' (mostly 6) and drive all the way into the weigh in we might not make it!

I think a 2 day would hurt out of town participation. It would really make us think twice about attending SBO III.

[Spearooo]

Now you have to defend a title. it would still end at the same time. You could shoot one day and still kick some....If the weather Gods simile on you then its on...

The format was great......
I still can't decide on twe two day thing, As it was I was dead beat on monday. Another full day of diving plus a drive would be alot to deal with.. iether way as soon as Scott set a date its on my calender........
till then keep the pics of the SBO Coming....

[Prodigal Son]

Sounds like a few people are losing perspective here with minutia. This isn't football. The most important thing is you all had a GREAT time! I know I'm outside of this (being on the left coast), but you guys have absolutely no idea of how envious I am about what you have. I can't believe some of this silly prattle about this rule or that (though I agree with Chad about measures to limit numbers of fish taken). You guys had the Woodstock of spearfishing on the efforts of a relatively few generous, dedicated indivduals. Man, I sincerely hope Scott and his wife give some serious thought to moving out to Southern Calif. We'll take it gladly without any complaints.

[Chad Carney]

All points taken with respect guys, this is good brainstorming.

I'm personally driving to the Big Easy for the HDR, then we drive to Galveston, dive two days and drive back. We give up one whole day of the 3.5 day tournament to make the drives.
I did it last year too, and the AL Open the year before that, it was also a 2 dive day tournament. The ALO was a good tournament and the HDR is great! This year the ALO is the same weekend. I always wanted to do them back to back, oh well.

This year the Hell Divers will even have a prize table. Zeagle and many others are sponsors, my Quiver Light & Shaft Holders too.

I've heard of more FL entries this year. In years past it has just been me and Thomas Biller from Florida.

I wouldn't mind carpooling in my truck if somebody else is heading up, but sorry there was never an open space for anyone else on the boat.

Chad

[diligaf]

Chad,

It’s just my personal observations and other divers I’ve spoken with (nothing scientific) that on average gags are more plentiful in the Gulf but the average size is probably larger on the east coast. Blacks and Warsaws would be a different story.

I think the discussion on changing the tournament format has probably been taken a little too serious. Personally… I’m not too concerned about the future formats… I’m sure Scott will do what is most fair to all and my opinion is he got it right for this tournament and things should not be changed.

However, you might want to consider the position of a small boater on the two-day format. Would you be willing to dive on a smaller boat in next year’s tournament? Having to drive out, dive all day, come back in a night, refuel, refill tanks or most likely borrow tanks because most dive shops are not open late nights, try to sleep for one or two hours and head back out to do it all again. It doesn’t sound like fun and isn’t this supposed to be fun?

Dave

[RichT]

Chad,
you bring up some interesting points about two day tournaments.
I have had some experience with two day tournaments(Florida state freediving championships and old Suncoast shootouts).And Yes, I do remember many people complaining they should only be one day tournaments back then
I dont believe more is neccesarily better. (2 days)
Do you know what our fuel bill was for this one day tournament?
it was nearly 600 dollars including oil.
In my opinion, a format other than the one that occured will encourage big slow diesel boats and discourage go-fast boats.
Thats fine with me if that is what tournament organizers are trying for. But, like I mentioned before adding more days to a tournament will keep people away from there familys longer.
It may cost a lot more for some participants especially with gas predicted to go to 3.00 a gallon, and What about the air issue.
None of these things are insurmountable obstacles but I still dont believe you will increase participation with the added days.
I could be wrong though.:D
I asked in another thread about numbers of past participants for the Louisianna tournaments and have not recieved any response as of yet.(both of those tournament are multiple day tournaments I believe).
What needs to be remembered is Scott has just put on a Tournament that im sure ranks in the top ten tournaments of all time in the amount of participants.
Great dialog though by everyone.

[junior]

Dudes, it was a great time and that's all I got to say about that.

I wonder if since this is a virtual spearfishing forum, if we will ever attempt a virtual tournament.

Check this out...people from around the world can participate in this one:cool:

You get seven days to shoot.

All legal fish from all over the world are fair game for the tournament.

Points are awarded based on the single largest fish of each type a participant shoots so you would have guys in Indonesia holding dog tooth tuna up against warsaw grouper from the Florida middle grounds against kingfish from New Zealand against white sea bass from California against sturgeon from Russia etc. etc.

The awards ceremony would take place in Florida with internet connections showing live feeds of the weigh in's in all the places where participants have joined. The official scales would be mailed from the SBO committee to the host weigh centers.

Prizes would be picked from a virtual show room with all prizes displayed. Shooters would pick from the show room in the order in which they placed and the sponsors would then mail the prizes to the participants.

Hair-brained idea...yes. But, man that would be a cool thing to have happen since so many people from around the world are on this site. A trully international speafishing event :cool:

[ROCK BOTTOM]

However, you might want to consider the position of a small boater on the two-day format. Would you be willing to dive on a smaller boat in next year’s tournament? Having to drive out, dive all day, come back in a night, refuel, refill tanks or most likely borrow tanks because most dive shops are not open late nights, try to sleep for one or two hours and head back out to do it all again. It doesn’t sound like fun and isn’t this supposed to be fun?

Dave,

I dive several multi-day tournaments every year. On a typical day of diving I cover ten miles of running inshore and a minimum of forty miles offshore. This is a total of 100 miles round trip. I dive from a 25 center console. It is not as difficult as you are making it out to be. I bring 8 tanks per day if my wife is diving with me for a total of 24 tanks on a three day trip. Each day we head out with sixteen tanks plus gear for four divers. We get up at six, dive until we are exhausted then head in to refuel and clean up. We are usually done by seven pm and hit the rack by ten. Not much different from a day at the office. Do I compete, look at the board from the SBO. Fact is most boats in the HDR are under 25 feet. In my area of the pond, there are not that many people in larger sportfishers that would ever consider tying their floating hotel up to a rig much less allow someone to bring scuba tanks on board for fear of scratching up the teak.

I guess what I am getting at is that if you are looking for a good time and if you are really a competitor, than you will do whatever you can to get in the race. And yes, two days of diving is more fun than only one.

Zz

[ROCK BOTTOM]

!

[ROCK BOTTOM]

!

[f94gator]

OK, this big debate is basically what I thought we should avoid at the moment.
Guys, several people on this board, (myself not included) busted their asses to put on that kickass event this past weekend and they're probably looking forward to NOT thinking about tournament planning and decompressing a little bit this week. Let's shelve the format discussions for now, please.

[Spearooo]

Junior thats a great idea, maybe it can be done by length or make competitor go to a local supermarket and pothograph the fish on the scale or next to yard stick and a Newspaper. .... could be interesting..... Could be a single fish per species...

[Spearchucker]

Rich,

I don't understand, can you clarify ;)

[Denny]

One is enough. Participation would fall way off, IMHO. My tourney went like this: Get home Thursday night from the Gulf Council Meeting and fix a broken truck. Gas and ice the boat Friday, PLUS do the last minute crap that comes up. Up at 3:30 to make the ramp by five. Get home, clean the boat and gear and collapse.
Chad- I'm looking forward to the Chad Carney open. Pick the number of days and the rules. Set it up.

Rock & Rich: I know you both, and you guys would like each other alot. If I have to sit you both down and do shots with ya 'til you admit that each other is a cool person, I'm gonna get REALLY drunk, and you will both pay for the liquor. And clean up after me when I hurl.:D

[diligaf]

Denny... can I participate in the Shot Drinking Open too?:D

[ROCK BOTTOM]

Kevin,

I am in the process of PMing Rich right now but let me make a full and manly retraction of my pissy statement. And, you are probably right, I meant to find Rich at the tournament and meet him mano a mano for a few beers.

Rich,

My sincerest apologies.

Next year, I will bring a few extra beers for when Scott runs out. We will discuss this further but only under those circumstances. Having a bad day is no excuse.

Steve Zelenka

[KJNDIVER]

OK, I dont have a personal point of view on a Spearfishing Tourney, but have participated in several multi-day hook and line tourneys. All this talk of multiple days affecting turn out is for not in my opinion.

Who is forcing people to dive both days? Those that cant take a Fri off will dive on Sat and take their fish to the wiegh in on Sun and have just as good a time as you did this year. If footing the bill for two days of back to back diving will put a hurt on your wallet, pick a day, Fri or Sat, and go to the wiegh in when done. Or you could go offshore one day, shoot your target offshore fish, then the next day, stay close and shoot the targeted near shore fish. Say someone cant get out on a Sat (wedding, kid bday party, whatever), that guy can still participate by getting out on Fri and make the wieghin on Sun and attend whatever thing he had to do on Sat.

Those that what to take longer boat rides to get to spots can do so. They may be using up an entire day of travel to get back and forth to their spot, thus only having one day of diving. Thats a strategy standpoint that is nothing more than a roll of the dice.

Besides, how much trash talking could you do if you picked one of the two days and the weather was calm and the fishing gods blessed you with the winning stringer. Just knowing that in one day you whipped the boys spending two days and mucho $$ for fuel and tanks would be reward enough.

There is a 4th of July fishing rodeo in Lake Charles every year with 3 days of fishing. Attendance is pretty steady with several hundred anglers each year. There are guys that spend the whole 3 days way offshore fishing for marlin, tuna, wahoo, etc; but it is seldom those guys that win tourney champion. It is usually the guy that diversifies by goin offshore then inshore/nearshore to round out the smaller fish categorys. I dont see where the difference between hook and lining and spearfishing would change peoples mindsets that drastically.

Sure, it may give somewhat of an advantage to those that can get out for 2 days, but if it bothers you that much, you would find a way to get out there with them.

In essence, it would be like the classic movie line, " If you build it, they will come"

[Old Bateman]

Man. I hit every spot I have in one day. Where would I shoot the second day?:confused:

[RichT]

Steve,
Appology accepted. All posts deleted. My appologys as well.
wheres the beer?!:)

[Denny]

Originally posted by KJNDIVER
OK, I dont have a personal point of view on a Spearfishing Tourney, but have participated in several multi-day hook and line tourneys.
Who is forcing people to dive both days?

In essence, it would be like the classic movie line, " If you build it, they will come"
Baseball has nothing to do with shooting. St. pete built the Trop, and we got the Rays, who might leave the area 'cuz nobody comes.
A multi-day tourney is a hump and would knock many competitors out of the tourney. If I could only dive one day, I wouldn't be shooting. I can tell you that most would feel the same way.
217 in the SBO. 319 in the SPO. 165 in the SO. Chop those numbers in half. I would think twice about even sponsoring an extended event that was not traditional (The Hell Diver's Rodeo IS traditional, and I am a sponsor).
Just my 1 cent(gas prices are up and I can't spare the other penny).

[Spearchucker]

I agree with Denny. Count me out if its a two day deal. Chad, you are not being realistic by saying the big boats would not have an ABSOLUTELY HUGE advantage. In LA, like the guy above said, they run out 40 miles, not 95 like we do.

[f94gator]

Seems like we've got too many guys out there with boats only capable of inshore trips or 1 day MG trips - or only enough tanks for 1 day.
True, I've never been in a 2 day tournament, but I have a very hard time understanding how such a format would not heavily favor the big guns - the guys who, as they've said themselves in this thread, can travel to any spot in their books and stay on the water for 2 days straight.

[LASeaCat]

Shit! Never seen so many angry white boys! With all those guns and knives on the prize table, it's amazing no one got hurt!

Great Job to Scott, Scott's wife and Chris and others that really put on a great event.

Oh yeah, I got something to say........

As for the band, if you can't sing good, sing loud!!! They were loud!

Multiday trips keep the cheaters down, intensify competition and separate the men from the boys! But what made the SBO so unique and challenging is that it had a different format than other tournements. Spend time studying the rules and dive spots rather than trying to change them and, hell, everything just falls into place! That is of course if you shoot straight and swim fast!

Scott, don't change a thing (except what you would like of course). If folks don't like it, too bad!! It's amazing how many divers paid $60 to bitch. Hell, it will only cost you $45 to bitch at the Helldivers Rodeo (tournament for you FL and SC divers) and you get a free shirt to wipe away the tears when you loose as well as free beer to drown your sorrows. You see, bitching and complaining provide entertainment for the Helldivers! Don't get mad, get even!! Come on out to the Helldivers Rodeo! And for all you who scored very low at the SBO, we do have a Triggerfish toss to take out your frustrations! (PETA - they don't feel a thing and the meat becomes sssoooooo tender!)

I had a blast! Chad is a great captain! St. Pete is a great place! New Port Richie seems nice as well! Southwest Airlines baggage department folks must be very democratic!

OVER...................

[Spearchucker]

You get me a boat ride, and I would like to go....

[Screen Name]

Now theres a good guy. But dont tell me you are a Democrat!

[LASeaCat]

No, I don't have a ride but there are charters in Venice. Go to Google and search for Venice LA. They have a site with charters. It would be great to have divers from out of state. This year we are expecting more than ever. As folks start coming down, there will be more and more opportunities for folks like yourself. Chad and I met several years ago and we have become good friends and that has opened our opportunities. I would never take that for granted as I know most folks don't have opportunities to dive in other states due to logistics! Good luck!

NOPE! Not a Demo! Most democrats in Louisiana don't like water, fish from roads and treat Perch like Tarpon........... Now what I mean?

[ROCK BOTTOM]

Don't listen to Dave. He has to resort to cheating(he uses professional charter services) to come in 45th place behind me. Dave, when you were trying to goad me into placing a bet with you for the SBO, I bet that never in your wildest dreams would you have thought that you would have lost so badly to me. I mean, how long have you been diving, 15 years? I have only been diving for three years. Ouch, that had to hurt! Wow, did I have a good time this weekend! I sure got lucky filling out so many spots on my card with little fish.

Are you still planning on taking a charter trip for the Hell Divers Rodeo? Maybe I might stay home for this one and give you a better chance. I actually will be there watching the wife killing fish, she has been in training.

Now that being said, Dave is a good guy and a hell of a lot better spearo than myself. The challenge is coming. Will Dave beat me at the Hell Divers Rodeo? Will I beat my wife? at the Hell Divers Rodeo? Only the shadow knows

Zz

[Chad Carney]

One thing is clear...everybody agrees that Scott did what nobody else has ever done. He started a tournament in 2003 in 9 weeks and made a splash, 101 divers and a $14K prize table!!!

Then he promoted the 2004 SBO to the max, bringing in 217 divers and way over $25k prize table. The prizes from this one will continue well into the year.

He's sitting back right now, looking at all of these opinions and sifting through the crap, weighing and measuring the benefits, just like he did earlier this year to formulate the 2004 SBO format and rules...and he nailed it!!!!

The 2005 SBO will be glorious, whether it's one, two or three days long!

Chad Carney, OST (Official Shit Stirrer!)

[Spear One]

10/4

[ROCK BOTTOM]

Chad,

It was great to meet you(again) this weekend. I will absolutely agree that the tournament was an unmitigated success. In every way that counted, Scott scored big. The only thing that anyone really griped about was the band and the drinks and neither one had anything to do with the diving or the company. And as much as we love multiple day tournaments, I did like the sense of urgency in making that dive plan work the way it was scripted. I probably would have liked to kill my fish on Friday so Saturday could be devoted to the big fish early and an early start on the driving. Too many thoughts in my head, I must drink more beer!

See you at the scales.

Steve Z

[LASeaCat]

Rock B,

You got me and you were humble............ WTF! Are you getting soft? I hate you! I hope your wife kicks your ass!

Good night!

[ROCK BOTTOM]

Yeah Dave, I am getting soft. And no, the old lady wasn't looking over my shoulder. This is the kinder, gentler me. A meek and mild-mannered version of the old crusty, crude jackass that I used to be. Either that or I suffer from a multiple personality disorder and Sally is doing the typing. Let me go find Butch to come out here and kick some tail.

By the way, where did George dive Sunday?

Zz

[Chad Carney]

Rich,

I thought some Hell Diver would give you the stats on the past HDRs by now. I only know about last years pre-Spearboard effected HDR which had a little over a hundred divers.
I know that doesn't sound like much for a 40 year old tournament, but bear in mind they had no prize table at all. Biller and Riffe donated a couple guns without being asked. They had never been in Spearfishing Magazine or any other periodical until Fall of 2003, and I only found out about them in 2002 at the ALO when I met David and George. With the exception of the 2001 book "The Hell Diver Rodeo" by Humberto Fontova, there was zero previous promotion of this rodeo.

This year is different, they have lined up many sponsors and will have a respectable prize table.

But for the Hell Divers it's all about the glory!

A great bunch of guys!

Chad

[Don B]

Been reading all the posts, many ideas on changes to the spearboard tournament, so heres mine. make it after schools out. I would have loved to come down with my dive partner but he was in the middle of finals. next year he'll graduate in mid may but I'm sure their a lot of other fathers who would love to dive it with their son or daughter. Cause killing fish runs in our blood!

[ScottZeagle]

Congratulations to Scott and all the divers!

It sounds like you guys had a GREAT time, regardless of who won!!!

I would have loved to have attended, but Scuba Show 2004 in Long Beach, CA required my attention this past weekend, so I missed it...hopefully I can be there next year!!!

Scott

[Chad Carney]

John,

40 miles my ass!
Ask some more of the LA players. Dauzat has a boat capable of 95 mile runs and isn't using it. Ditto Stan Smith.
Rafe Antill, of Lick'em & Stick'em has unlimited range!
Wango Tango went on a 300 mile loop for us, at least 95 miles out.

Dave,

Will I give up using 36' Cubera for a tournament? Hell no! While paying all the bills to own the boat...I'd have to be an idiot!
But step back in time 8 years and I would jump to be in such a two day tournament with my 22' Aquasport.
Tim's twin 4 stroke Contender, (your ride), would be an awesome two day boat, at twice my speed. Some docks are open until 10pm normally, and by appointment, who knows. Grounds one day and a totally different big fish mix the next.
8 tanks each diver, (4 each day is what he carries). I've never carried more than 7 each for two days, usually only 6.

Take note: Not a single diver that has dove a two day tournament has posted that he didn't like it!
Several guys with small boats have raved over them, me included in the 2002 ALO.

Chad

[diligaf]

Chad… I don’t think your two-day format is going to get much support. But I’ll give you credit… you are persistent. There are some fishing tournaments that have a two-day format… but to make it fair… you are required to weigh-in your fish each day. What would you think of that idea? That might level out the playing field between small and large boats… but I doubt that idea will get much support either. Bottom line is one day is enough for most people.

[diligaf]

Originally posted by Chad Carney
John,

40 miles my ass!
Ask some more of the LA players. Dauzat has a boat capable of 95 mile runs and isn't using it. Ditto Stan Smith.
Rafe Antill, of Lick'em & Stick'em has unlimited range!
Wango Tango went on a 300 mile loop for us, at least 95 miles out.

Chad

Chad... hmmm.... guys with boats that can run 95 miles out and they choose not to use them for a two-day tournament. Ok... I'm confused:confused: :confused: :confused: ... how does this support that the two-day format is fair to smaller boats?

[RichT]

Originally posted by Chad Carney
Rich,

I thought some Hell Diver would give you the stats on the past HDRs by now. I only know about last years pre-Spearboard effected HDR which had a little over a hundred divers.

Chad

Chad,
Thanks for the info,
Im sure this year will see a huge increase in attendance at the HDR.
Wish I could go, Sounds like one hell of a party.

[Chad Carney]

Dave,

Originally posted by Chad Carney


Dispute this:

Not a single diver that has dove a two day tournament has posted that he didn't like it!
Several guys with small boats have raved over them, me included in the 2002 ALO.

Ask the HDR and ALO guys if they'd like to pare their rodeos down to only one dive day.

Enough said, it's a year away!

Chad

[Spearchucker]

Chad

Read this in one of the above posts:

I dive several multi-day tournaments every year. On a typical day of diving I cover ten miles of running inshore and a minimum of forty miles offshore. This is a total of 100 miles round trip. I dive from a 25 center console. It is not as difficult as you are making it out to be.

That is less than half the distance I drive.

Your mother and father must have loved having you around to argue with :D

[LASeaCat]

SCHOOLS OUT!!! THE HELL DIVER RODEO IS HERE!!! COME ON DOWN!!!

Breaking news!! I not saying that the Spearboard Open should be 2 days. I say don't change a thing..........however! What is all this whining about. Folks from Louisiana quite often take their 25' and less boats 75 miles out! They often sleep on the oil rigs over night or on their 25' boat. They beg for fuel from work boats 80 miles off shore to make it back in to port. And I can't remember the last time a "diver" sank a boat!! Whatever! Mulitiple day competitions bring out the best divers and the most fierce competition. We feel that if you can't hang with the big dogs, stay on the porch! Guys, some you are starting to sound like cry babies, bad sports, etc. And to be quite honest, I would be disappoint if I were Scott.

A senerio to get my point accross:

You go to your best friends house, and he and his lovely wife and best friend have cooked this elaborate diner just for you and your friends, and just one piece of BBQ chicken was burn't , the day turned out a little hotter than expected and the neighbors were blaring country music, WOULD YOU COMPLAIN ABOUT!!!

I think not!

What most folks are lossing is that 2003 SBO was less competitive than the 2004. The bar was definitely raised. Whatever the rules are, the 2005 will be even tougher! I plan to do better next year! What about you?

Thanks again to Scott and Crew!

PS. Multiday trips separate the men from the boys! (Did I say that already!)

[HeadHunter]

The tournament was great just the way it was......Scott obviously put a lot of thinking into making it as fair as he possibly could. It simply isn't possible to make everybody 100% happy with every rule. The "Total Picture" view is whats important.
My thoughts on the 2 fish per catogory versus the 3 fish per catogory is that it's no huge deal either way. The 2 fish per catogory would be my choice if I was making the rules.
As far as a one day versus a two day tournament, well hell yeah I'd like to see a 2 day tournament. BUT, and this is a BIG BUT, it will absolutely positively give boats like mine a huge advantage. Spending a day working deep and then night running back into the grounds for a second day? Do the math.
I'm going on the record right now to state that I don't support the idea of a 2 day tournament. Not because it's not fair to me, but because it's more than fair. If Scott/SB decide to go with a 2 day tournament, then I'll enter it happily. If Scott decides to make any rule changes, I'll accept any of them, knowing that any and all changes were done in an attempt to level the playing field. I just want it known that I'm not pushing for something that would favor my situation so well!!!!
DM

[ROCK BOTTOM]

Spearchucker,

That distance is just the minimum that I run just to get out and back. For the Rodeo, I will be ranging far and wide. I have 200 gallons on board and the ability to dive as far out as 100 miles (from the marina, some of this running is done in the river). I was using this distance as a typical weekend trip(like the one I used to take 14th place at the spearboard - did I compete?) Some of my dive spots are closer, some are farther away. Since I am trying to get divers from outside Louisiana, I didn't want to say that they have to go 100 miles off shore just to kill fish.

I have taken my 25' center to several of the more remote semi-submersible drilling rigs and fished for pelagics in several thousand feet of water. I can do this and be back to the dock in time to fuel up for the next day.

As far as Team Lick'em or Stick'em, they are running a 26' Bertram that has been rigged as the ultimate diving machine. Rafe Antile works in the oil field supply industry and prearranges sleeping arrangements, fuel, etc. from the rigs he intends to visit. Not an insurmountable advantage.

We don't usually worry about such nonsense. The only rule you need to know is "don't go into my ice chest without getting me a beer too."

Zz

[Denny]

Originally posted by LASeaCat
Rock B,

You got me and you were humble............ WTF! Are you getting soft? I hate you! I hope your wife kicks your ass!

Good night!
In LA, nothing says "you're my friend" like a good punch in the mouth. :D
Dave, Steve- Glad you guys made it down. Also glad you didn't do the LA handshake (beating the sh*t out of each other).

[junior]

I think I heard this earlier, but don't fix it if'n it ain't broke:cool: Headhunter's got it right. Ya give them boys a chance to dive all their spots and we'd all be picking ceramic fishy dolls off the prize table:D

[diligaf]

Originally posted by Chad Carney
Dave,

Dispute this:

Not a single diver that has dove a two day tournament has posted that he didn't like it!
Several guys with small boats have raved over them, me included in the 2002 ALO.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Ask the HDR and ALO guys if they'd like to pare their rodeos down to only one dive day.

Enough said, it's a year away!

Chad

The right question to ask is NOT whether the Helldivers want to cut down their tournament to one day. The right question to ask is whether the current participants of the SBO would prefer a one or two day format. I could be wrong, but I think that 90% will answer "one day". No matter what you say....it is a big investment in time, money, effort to even do a one day tournament, especially for those that need to add travel time from other places. If the objective is to maintain or grow the participation, you must listen to the majority. Isn't there a way to set up a vote on Spearboard?

[RichT]

I agree with you Dave.
Heres an idea I heard from an old timer this morning about how the St. Pete Open used to be run.
Have it all in ONE day!
Schedule goes something like this:
Registration 5:00am-6:00am
Shotgun start at 6:30am
Must be in line by6:30pm
Weigh in from 6:30-8:00
Prize ceremony starts at 8:30- finished.
Its all over in one day! and you have the rest of the weekend off!
How bout dat!:D

[ROCK BOTTOM]

diligaf,

Spearboard is not a democracy, ask Scott. I am sure he is reading these suggestions but has no desire or probably even the mental capacity to digest them right now. You are right about the Hell Divers question, we are from a different region/mindset. As the only group from Louisiana to participate in our home waters(not counting Bubblejunkie and his group who dove up here) I have to say that the 1 day v. 2 day format wouldn't make any difference to me. I am accustomed to multi day affairs. I think both formats are equal to me. One day tournament means I have to plan the trip differently and make the dive plan work as scripted. Two day tourmanent means more diving and that means more fun and the drive would be the same. If the event was 3 days I would probably stay home.

Regardless, I am ready for some more fun!

Zz

[ROCK BOTTOM]

Rich,

If it were all in one day I might be late for the weigh-in.

Steve

[kmoose]

Originally posted by RichTaylor
I agree with you Dave.
Heres an idea I heard from an old timer this morning about how the St. Pete Open used to be run.
Have it all in ONE day!
Schedule goes something like this:
Registration 5:00am-6:00am
Shotgun start at 6:30am
Must be in line by6:30pm
Weigh in from 6:30-8:00
Prize ceremony starts at 8:30- finished.
Its all over in one day! and you have the rest of the weekend off!
How bout dat!:D
That was back when there was 50 divers and lots of fish in 30'.

[RichT]

Originally posted by kmoose
That was back when there was 50 divers and lots of fish in 30'.

Kenny,
I know. It was meant as a joke.
Kinda like the last 7 pages of this whole thread. IMHO
By the way it was great getting to talk to you and funny as hell watching you try to load that big gun you won.:D

[Steel Shootin']

The suggestions are interesting. One of the first things we do when we sit down is a committee is ask, "What changes if any should we make this year?" We look for things to make it unique, competitive and fun.

Rock, the Family BBQ analogy is funny as hell. Neighbors playing the radio too loud....burning one piece of chicken! :D Some of my friends would write to me and bitch!

For now, I just want to try and help the upcoming tournaments like Hell Divers, Southern Open, and then the last one of the season, the St. Pete Open. There will be plenty of time later to tinker with new ideas for the 2005 SBO.

I am pleased to announce the musical talent for the 2005 Spearboard Open:

http://porktornado.diaryland.com/images/zipzaprap1.jpg

[diligaf]

Originally posted by RichTaylor
I agree with you Dave.
Heres an idea I heard from an old timer this morning about how the St. Pete Open used to be run.
Have it all in ONE day!
Schedule goes something like this:
Registration 5:00am-6:00am
Shotgun start at 6:30am
Must be in line by6:30pm
Weigh in from 6:30-8:00
Prize ceremony starts at 8:30- finished.
Its all over in one day! and you have the rest of the weekend off!
How bout dat!:D

Hmmm... I like this idea. I don't think the guys with rides in the Contenders will have any kind of a competitive advantage.:D :D :D

[Chad Carney]

John,

Yes Rock said this:
Originally posted by ROCK BOTTOM
I dive several multi-day tournaments every year. On a typical day of diving I cover ten miles of running inshore and a minimum of forty miles offshore.

Each day we head out with sixteen tanks plus gear for four divers. And yes, two days of diving is more fun than only one.

Zz

Key word in first paragraph: minimum.

More importantly note second paragraph.

Chad

Dad taught me how to debate, not whine! :D

[Spearchucker]

I think by the responses, you lose.

Also, are you saying Dan M is full of it when he says two days is a giant advantage for him? The whole idea that 2 days does not favor big boats is absolutely ABSURD. You know it, but you want the two days for JUST THAT REASON.

Come on man, call a spade a spade.

Why did you delete this part of his post:

This is a total of 100 miles round trip.

[SPEARIT]

I apoligize for taking so long in posting anything about the SBO but as some of you may know, I had problems with an engine on Sat which combined with the 4-6ft seas prevented us from hitting our prime spots(but what the hell, no snivelling or excuses). We limped in early, got the boat on the trailer and to the mechanic to be checked and departed for Fl at around 7p.m. and arriving about 6a.m.
To all responsible for making the SBO a success, you have my heartfelt gratitude. It was a great time(and no, I won't say anything about the "We sure can't play good, but we sure can play LOUD band"). I enjoyed meeting everyone and putting faces to names. Congratulations to Les, Rob, and the rest of the Slay Ride team. You did us Carolina boys proud.
To PatmyGreen, congratulations to you on winning the trip.
We had planned to stay down there on Sunday night and leave Mon for home but decided to start heading back about 6p.m. Sunday arriving Mon. morning. 4 hours sleep and then to the marina to check the engine problem. The result is a blown port engine, so I've been busy locating engines and will be hanging a set of Yamaha 250's in the next few days.
I've read the posts regarding fishing days and offer the following suggestion. The Big Rock fishing tournament here uses a system where there are multiple days available to fish with lay day options. So the SBO could run with Fri and Sat available to fish either day and you pick one and declare which one by email or phone beforehand.
Tom

[ROCK BOTTOM]

Spearchucker,

If you insist, I can go back and edit my post and insert the word minimum right before the word total. I didn't do this originally because I used the word minimum in the prior sentence and assumed that the readers would make the connection.

Zz

[Denny]

Scott- The turntable slave? KAPOW. Ooops, didn't know the PH was loaded. Next. :D

[Spearchucker]

Rock

My point is that Chad is OBVIOUSLY wanting a rule change to help him, and he is putting it up under the guise that it helps everybody.

I thought the tournament was JUST FINE the way it was, Myself and my brother do not own 16 - 18 tanks, and most people seem to agree with me.

In addition to that, as part of the committee that put on the tournament, I worked nowhere near as hard as Scott, and I was exhausted after the current format. Getting up at 7:00 Sunday and loading four kegs, 50 cases of drinks and 500 #'s of ice after spending 20 hours straight on the water, was frankly, pretty tough.

Thats my $.02

[ROCK BOTTOM]

Spearchucker,

That sounds like$.10 worth. Chad might be tying to fool us. The only hole in your last post was your complaint about loading four kegs of beer. I only saw three. What's up with that? No brother, that was a lot of work.

Denny,

Can I borrow one of your PHs and help?

Zz

[kmoose]

Look, one day, two day...... Most of the people in big slow boats have opptions..... Hell 4 of the 8 people on HH own boats that cruise over 20 knots, with the weather conditions as they were a couple of us could of been in the Rocket and made twice the amount of dives and slept in our own beds. The current format is more than sufficient for boats of almost any size or speed. You want to give me another day in either boat fast or slow it is gonna inprove the haul....Don't give me the bull about boat size or lack of tanks. Unless you run into a weather problem small fast boats should kick butt in any tourney. If this was'nt the case, kingfish tourneys would be over run with slow deisel boats. We chose the boat we road in because the tourney was more about friends being together doing what they like. This fairness thing is getting beat to death and was one of our concerns as far as our reluctancy to enter the tourney in the first place. It was a fantasticly run tourney and I would be more than happy if it stayed just the way it is .....as far as an extra day of diving...well how do ya think about 3 day weekends??....a 7th beer in a six pack?..... drunken twin strippers?........ is more better?!?......The more you put into this sport the better it gets!!!..that includes shore time, travel time and dive time.

[f94gator]

Originally posted by ROCK BOTTOM
The only hole in your last post was your complaint about loading four kegs of beer. I only saw three. What's up with that?
Zz

There were indeed 4 kegs, I can attest to that. Not seeing that 4th one shows you just how quickly this mess of steel-slingin', drunken fools can pound their triple deuces of malt-lickety juice!!! :D

[biggsy]

Originally posted by Spearchucker
Rock

My point is that Chad is OBVIOUSLY wanting a rule change to help him, and he is putting it up under the guise that it helps everybody.

I thought the tournament was JUST FINE the way it was, Myself and my brother do not own 16 - 18 tanks, and most people seem to agree with me.

In addition to that, as part of the committee that put on the tournament, I worked nowhere near as hard as Scott, and I was exhausted after the current format. Getting up at 7:00 Sunday and loading four kegs, 50 cases of drinks and 500 #'s of ice after spending 20 hours straight on the water, was frankly, pretty tough.

Thats my $.02

Yeah but you got to ride around in that cool ATV.

[Spear One]

When you mix 225 thirsty spearfisherman with four kegs of beer....one of the two is going down. At the SBO..... the kegs suffered a knock out!

[f94gator]

Originally posted by biggsy
Yeah but you got to ride around in that cool ATV.

Actually, that was me. :D

[biggsy]

Well, I was close...same family :D

[f94gator]

Rule of thumb. Better looking Hermes = Paul.

[biggsy]

ROFL...

[Steel Shootin']

Originally posted by Denny
Scott- The turntable slave? KAPOW. Ooops, didn't know the PH was loaded. Next. :D My attempt at levity to steer the conversation away from all this debate has clearly failed. :D

[RichT]

Originally posted by Scott
My attempt at levity to steer the conversation away from all this debate has clearly failed. :D


Frustrating when a thread just wont die isnt it?

[Spearchucker]

Frustrating when a thread just wont die isnt it?

Damn Frustrating

[Spearchucker]

Don't you think?

[richhermes]

Who gives three sh1ts about the 2005 SBO right NOW?? It is 11.99 months away. Give it a rest people. Concentrate on the next tourny and when 2005 rolls around, we'll whip out the SBO diary and look what needs to be done to make a better SBO. Right now, we know there will be two weigh lines, a DJ and more beer (for Bucket One).
I just want to see what next year's shirt is going to look like!!

Jeez,:rolleyes:

[Screen Name]

What you guys need is a good dose of politics and religion. All this stuff about spearfishing is driving me nuts! :D

[Spearchucker]

Har Har

[junior]

Somebody mention politics and religion?? All at the same time:D

[f94gator]

You mean we don't have the 2005 shirts designed yet?!?!?

[richhermes]

Originally posted by f94gator
You mean we don't have the 2005 shirts designed yet?!?!?

Yeah, you know that Scott guy. He's a slacker!:D

[spear_friend]

i have a sugestion scott next time get strippers there lol and that is women strippers ..lol