09/21/2026
Important Announcement Regarding Our October 18 Fishing Tournament
Dear Sponsors, Anglers, Volunteers, and Friends,
After a great deal of thought and consideration, the Donnie Ray Crawford Legacy Foundation has made the difficult decision to postpone our fishing tournament scheduled for October 18 and move it to spring 2027.
This decision is the result of several circumstances coming together at once. Our family and foundation are currently navigating some personal matters that require our time and attention. We have also experienced a serious automobile accident involving a foundation member, as well as the heartbreaking loss of another valued member of our foundation family.
In addition, we recognize that we have not had the preparation and promotional time needed to organize the kind of tournament our anglers, sponsors, and supporters deserve. This event requires a tremendous amount of planning—from securing sponsors and gathering raffle prizes to promoting the tournament and preparing for a successful day on the water. Rather than move forward without being able to give the tournament our very best, we believe postponing it is the most responsible decision.
Please know that this decision was not made lightly. This tournament and the people who support it mean so much to us. Your generosity helps the foundation continue honoring Donnie Ray and Papa’s legacy through scholarships, racer recovery assistance, and faith-based missions.
We are currently working to secure a spring date that avoids as many conflicts as possible with other major and high school fishing tournaments. Several anglers have already expressed enthusiasm about moving the event to spring, and we are hopeful the new date will bring pleasant weather, great fishing, and a wonderful turnout.
We sincerely hope you will continue to stand beside us and keep this tournament on your calendar. Our intention is to return just as strong—if not stronger—with great raffle prizes, a well-organized event, and the same meaningful purpose that has always been at the heart of this tournament.
We are truly sorry for any inconvenience this postponement may cause. Thank you for your patience, understanding, prayers, and continued support during this season. We are incredibly grateful for every sponsor, angler, volunteer, and friend who helps make the work of this foundation possible.
We will announce the new spring 2027 date as soon as it is finalized, and we look forward to seeing everyone back on the water.
With heartfelt appreciation,
The Crawford Family,
The Donnie Ray Crawford Legacy Foundation,
Kevin Apple, Tournament Director
