Women's Bassmaster Tour eliminated

BASS has announced the elimination of the Women's Bassmaster Tour, citing a significant drop in event participation since the women's-only circuit began in 2005.

"Despite BASS' best efforts to grow the WBT, participation levels were declining, especially heading into the 2010 season," said Tom Ricks, BASS general manager and vice president.

"This was a very tough decision and we understand the timing wasn't ideal," continued Ricks. "We are aggressively working to accommodate all WBT anglers who were registered for the 2010 season into other tournament venues they are eligible for, such as the Bassmaster Opens, if they desire to compete."

-- Kelly Burgess

Photo: Pam Martin-Wells of Bainbridge, Ga., at an event during the 2009 Women's Bassmaster Tour. Credit: BASS Communications

Note: To follow this blog on Twitter please visit @latimesoutposts

Comments

[Shawna]

It's discouraging for someone new in the sport, to know that you will no longer be able to achieve that level of competition nor be afforded the opportunities that the men are given in the Classic and Elite tours. I have started a petition to show that we are still here and want the WBT to go on or to have BASS at least actively promote the inclusion of women anglers in the Classic and Elite Tours. If you would like to sign the petition in support, please visit and pass on the link to other anglers that feel strongly about the elimination of the WBT.

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/wbtsupporters/

Thank you,