BY BOO NEWSOME
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

RUSSELL COUNTY — Martin County Cardinal Fishing made a strong showing in the 11th Annual Bradley Roy Open held Sunday at Lake Cumberland in Russell County. The tournament drew 209 boats and welcomed high school and middle school participants.

The event’s format was designed to be highly competitive, with the top two teams earning a spot at the 2023 High School National Championship. Additionally, the top five teams had the opportunity to vie for scholarships in a catch, weigh and release competition on an extra day of angling.

A group of talented fishermen represented Martin County, demonstrating their dedication and skills. Tanner Young led the Cardinal contingent in the high school division with an impressive 31st-place finish. Jerrod Haney secured 42nd place. Brayden Blankenship, along with the team of Harrison Jude and Peyton Cline, participated but did not secure a placement.

In the middle school (junior) division, Peyton Mcpeek exhibited outstanding angling, claiming the third-place spot out of 56 boats. The duo of Brayden Marcum and Tyler Goble secured a solid seventh place. Dylan Dye and Hunter Dials also participated in the competition, although they did not clinch a placement.