World Carp Classic - Official Global Website
Lake Bolsena 2nd - 8th September 2012

I guess that working behind the scenes, helping with the publicity and media related components of the World Carp Classic as I do, and being privy to a lot of the type of detail that competitors thirst for, it may be seen as a nice bonus. Well, I guess it is. It’s certainly interesting if not advantageous, however, it can at times be a bit of burden to know certain things, especially exciting aspects that cannot be spoken about until the time is right and the crossing of all the t’s and dotting of I’s has been finalised.

Okay, it’s the World Carp Classic we’re talking about here and not the secret service, but a certain level of discretion is required as I’m sure you will understand.

Given that the event is moving to Lago di Bolsena for 2012, you can perhaps imagine that this past few months have been somewhat tortuous in that respect… each time the event moves venue it creates a huge amount of work, but within that there are a multitude of new and exciting aspects. Obviously, every venue, with the exception of when the event returned to Madine, is fundamentally a journey into the unknown and as such there is a great deal of work going on behind the scenes to assure that everything is in place - and no stone is left unturned. For 2012, the setup is exceptional, and Bolsena offers everything we could ideally wish for, and more!

For instance, now that we have finally been able to publish details of bivvy city and other, alternative accommodation, I can at last talk to you about that in finer detail. Okay. it may not be considered massive news, but if you take a close look at what is on offer, you will no doubt appreciate what a fantastic set up it is, and with on-site supermarket, bar, restaurant, pool, sports facilities etc, bivvy city inhabitants - and other contestants using other facilities - including sponsors, film crews, and media, there will be everything they could wish for in one place. As a result, it is certain that the unique atmosphere normally associated with the event will be elevated to a new and unprecedented level. How could it not be, with so much on offer so close to hand? It will definitely provide a very relaxed atmosphere and free up more socialising time for all involved.

Another aspect that might not be instantly appreciated is the fact that the access road, which runs almost right around Bolsena, will not only facilitate easy access for competitors to get to their swims and fish virtually from their vehicles, but it will also be extremely useful for those who wish to inspect each swim prior to the draw to make their lists. Never before has there been such easy access and as such that will also free up a lot of time for other things. Also, with no islands being used - and therefore no necessity for the mammoth and time consuming task of transporting tonnes of equipment and large numbers of anglers by boat - logistics are greatly simplified. Additionally, this fact, alongside the obvious ease participants will have to launch boats from their own swims means that there will be an absolute minimum of disturbance upon the water right up to the start of the event.

This is going to be a very different experience to what has gone before, and in my opinion it will be outstanding for many other reasons besides those that I have mentioned here.

I for one cannot wait, and I’m very much looking forward to spending some free time relaxing with my fellow competitors and friends, sampling the delights Bolsena has on offer.

I have a feeling that this event is going to be very special indeed!

Until next time, be lucky!

Steve Howard