I feel bad for Randall Tharp because hes was one of the favorites to win. At one time he lived on the lake/in the area so that is why he was one of the favorites.

I feel even worse for Paul Muller. He is the angler who worked his way up through the federation to earn the right to fish in the classic. He lives in Connecticut and had little to no experience on the lake. In all the years of the classic only one time has somebody from the federation won the classic. His 1st day total was 9 lbs 10 oz with ONLY 3 fish. He was second by only one pound...1 small keeper away from being a world champion. 2 decent keepers and he would have been way out in front. Imagine how hard it is to think you was one small keeper away from winning the classic and being crowned a world champion.

Personally I was pulling for Edwin Evers. He is one of the best anglers out there with an AOY title but no classic title.

Randy Howell will be a good ambassador for the sport.