Wauconda ice fishing meet benefits cancer research
Wearing a warm jacket, hat, mittens and a scarf, 9-year-old Devin Geurra tried her hand at ice fishing for the first time Saturday at Bangs Lake in Wauconda.
The Elk Grove Village youngster was among 325 who participated in the Walk on Water Ice Fishing Derby, a fundraiser to help families affected by cancer.
"This is exciting," she said, not seeming to mind the cold.
Her dad, Jason Guerra, braved the elements in honor of Devin's grandmother, who is a cancer survivor.
"We're out here to support the benefit, more than for the fishing," he said. "It's for a good cause."
Launched by Brent Beckwith five years ago, the derby originally raised money for the American Cancer Society. Since then, Beckwith has started his own charity, the Andrea Lynn Cancer fund, to honor his mother who passed away from colon cancer in 1993.
"By starting my own non-profit, I'm able to connect to families who are dealing with cancer on a more one-on-one basis. It's a lot more gratifying," said Beckwith of Crystal Lake.
The derby highlights his love of fishing, Beckwith said. "This is all about fun, family and fishing," he said.
Participation in the event has grown. Five years ago, about 30 people braved the elements to enter the inaugural derby. Last year, 186 participated, and, this year, 325 anglers poked holes in the surface of the frozen lake to find fish.
Addison resident Mike DeVega ice fishes every weekend, and enjoys this event.
"It's for a good cause," he said.
Volunteers weigh and measure the fish and keep an eye out for the anglers' safety.
"We ice fish to have a good time, but today it's all about fighting cancer. My mom's a cancer survivor, and this is a way to give back," said volunteer Andy Wooley of Aurora.
Participants also brought in canned food and non-perishables for a chance to enter a raffle of prizes including an auger and shanty.
The food items will be donated to the Wauconda/Island Lake food pantry, Beckwith said.
"I wanted to give back to the community that has played host for our event," he said.