Third annual Grandchildren's Fishing Derby at
Saddlebrook Farms is best yet.

The Third Annual Grandchildren's Fishing Derby at Saddlebrook Farms, an over-55 community in Round Lake Park, was held Saturday, June 23, and attracted the largest number of grandchildren to date--well over 200 registrants.

Started by the Saddlebrook Farms Fishing Club and still run solely by its members, the Granchildren's Fishing Derby is the largest and most popular multi-generational event at Saddlebrook Farms. The grandchildren compete in four age groups for the longest fish and most fish caught over approximately 90 minutes. There are first, second, and third place awards in each age group plus a raffle for fishing equipment donated by manufacturers. Awards, refreshments, and other gifts are underwritten by the Fishing Club and Saddlebrook Farms or donated by community residents. This year's clown was a resident donating her time as a professional clown.

To help start the grandchildren out on the right foot, the Derby always begins with a seminar conducted by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Representing the department this year were instructors Tim Kinsella and Kevin Shaughnessey, who handed out packets of information and made a short presentation on the anatomy and identification of fish and proper fishing etiquette. DNR also helps out by providing extra rods and reels for children who do not have equipment of their own.

Saddlebrook Farms has more than 100 acres of stocked lakes. The Derby takes place at 40-acre Hidden Lake, the site of the community's historic lake lodge. There was plenty of room for the grandchilren to spread out and try their luck. Fishing Club president and derby founder Bob Vetter said, "Seeing the expression on a child's face as they catch their first fish makes it all worthwhile." He credits the success of the event to the efforts of fellow members Marty Stumpf, who has chaired the event all three years, and Dick Niemann, who solicited the raffle items from fishing equipment manufacturers.

Saddlebrook Farms is located at Route 60 and Peterson Road, approximately 10 minutes west of I-94. The Information Center and Model Court are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, or by appointment. Single-family ranch homes start in the $120's. Attractive upgrades are offered, as well as a limited number of desirable waterfront sites. For further information call (847) 223-6000.