Horton's Hosts Fishing Day for Disabled Children

Dick Antoine, the harbor master of Mount Harbor Resort, presents a trophy to the third-place winner, age 12, who has spina bifida. He caught 11.6 lb of catfish.

Children who would not ordinarily have the chance to experience the thrill of baiting a hook, casting a rod, and reeling in a large catfish had a day of fishing, thanks to Horton's Orthotic Lab Inc.

The 5th annual Fishin' at the Harbor, sponsored by Horton's, was held at Mountain Harbor Resort Saturday April 26 from 9 A.M.-3 P.M. The event is free. The day included fishing instructions, free lunch provided by Subway, and trophies, which were awarded to the largest catch as well as the most fish caught. Over 40 children with disabilities attended and over 100 pounds of catfish were caught.

"Many children with physical disabilities never get a chance to get outdoors and experience Arkansas' wonderful fishing, "said Gary Horton, owner of Horton's Orthotic Lab Inc. "They often see their siblings and friends participating in all sorts of outdoor sporting events, and find themselves relegated to the role of spectators."

A four-year-old youngsters enjoys the day fishing with his mom.

The main focus of this fishing event is placed on the children with disabilities. "While parents and siblings are encouraged to come and participate, our main attention is given to our specially invited children," Horton said. "Instead of merely watching others having fun, they are involved as active participants."

Ashley, age 13, shows off a fish she caught that helped her win first place. Her winning total was 26.10 lbs. Ashley has won first place four out of the last five years. The year she didn’t win, she had purposely thrown some fish back, so her friend could win.

A nine-year-old with spina bifida eagerly watches his bobber while fishing with his mom.

Six-year-old twins with cerebral palsy spend the day fishing with their older brother, mom, and aunt.

Grace, age eight, spends the day fishing with her parents and little sister, Hope.