Classic Update:  All Eyes on Texan Angler

Birmingham, AL:  7/27/2002 - Jay Yelas is making this year's Classic look more like a group fishing lesson.  Yelas, a Tyler Texas resident, jumped out in the lead Thursday by weighing in with a 18 lbs 9 oz limit catch. 

He didn't rest on his laurels when Tuesday he rang the school bell again.  Adding another 16 lb 9 oz catch brought his two day total to 35 lbs 2 oz.  His nearest competition is over 10 lbs behind.  Apparently, Jay was paying close attention to the experts that suspected the $200,000 first prize money would go to a 40+ lb total.

The 32nd Annual Citgo Bassmasters Classic is being held July 22-27.  ESPN and ESPN2 plans include same day coverage on the last three days of the event.  This year's classic is being presented locally by the State of Alabama, City of Birmingham, Jefferson County and Shelby County.  Interested parties can call (334) 272-9530 for more information.