Deadline today for ‘basscot’ names

With more than 300 ballots already turned in as of Friday, it’s clear many people have taken the time to name the Fort Frances Canadian Bass Championship’s new “basscot”—and take a chance to win $100 in “Bass Bucks.”
Those wishing to suggest a name still can submit their choice by tonight by checking out the FFCBC’s Web site at www.canadianbass.com
“I think it’s been a fantastic response,” Bud Edwards, the FFCBC’s director of media relations, said Thursday.
“One-third of the responses have been through the Internet site while two-thirds are coming in through the ballot boxes located around town,” he added.
“Entries are coming in from all over the place, thanks to the Internet. We’ve had them from southern Ontario, and it’s really popular in Winnipeg.”
Edwards said a good variety of names have been submitted.
“Alliteration seems to be popular. And without giving any away, names that are similar to famous people also are popular,” he noted.
“It’s going to be hard to pick one,” admitted Doug Cain, director of marketing and long-time tourney volunteer.
“There’s some that are the same. A lot of Billys, Barneys, and Rainys,” he added.
“I just found out the Latin name for a smallmouth bass so there could be a few more entries dropped in before the deadline,” joked Cain.
Edwards said he’s been compiling the entries on a computer spreadsheet, which will be distributed at the bass committee’s next meeting (June 4).
“The entries will then be split up and each director will pick their favourite three,” he said, noting they’ll be given several days to decide.
“Then, these picks will go to three judges,” Edwards added.
The final decision will be made by mid-June—well in advance of the FFCBC in late July.