SYRACUSE, N.Y. (AP) — Brent Chapman was honored Saturday as the Bassmaster Angler of the Year.
Chapman, from Lake Quivira, Kan., received a $100,000 prize.
“This is what we all strive for,” Chapman said as he accepted award at The Great New York State Fair. “I feel like a huge weight has been taken off my back. To achieve a lifetime goal — well, I’ve never done that before. It’s probably going to take several days before it sinks in. It’s truly unbelievable.”
Chapman edged Ott DeFoe of Knoxville, Tenn., by 14 points in the season standings.
Kevin VanDam of Kalamazoo, Mich., won the title the last four years and seven times overall.
“It’s been a good run,” VanDam said. “I was trying to make it five. A lot of these guys have stepped up their game, and that’s what great about this sport.”
Brandon Card of Caryville, Tenn., was the Bassmaster Elite Series Rookie of the Year.
