2013 FCA Outdoors - Hank Parker Invitational

Hank Parker and christian fellowship during the tower shoot 

Cale Yarborough and Sam Wyche lead the shooters wagon

The second annual Hank Parker Invitational for the Carolinas chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) reaches out to those who would spend time in God's creation of the outdoors. Moving the event to a location right on the SC / NC border near Charlotte (and near Parker's home) allows FCA to draw participants from a wider spectrum of the Carolinas. Of course if Hank Parker is involved, there has to be at least some bass fishing involved! I had the honor of following Hank Parker around a private pond at Meadow Wood while he proceeded to tell his tales and cast his lures. While the big fish got away, Parker had his sights set on fishing for men later in the day when christians would come together for some shooting sports. Football coaches Sam Wyche and Art Baker need no introduction and they helped contribute to the celebrity flair at the FCA event. NASCAR Hall Of Fame member Cale Yarborough was there too, joining former MLB players Bob Bolin and Billy O'Dell. Current NFL kicker Ryan Succup and golf coach Larry Penley represented the Carolina / Clemson folks. After a meal with prayer and a testimony by Hank Parker, the FCA patrons participated in a tower shoot for ring-necked pheasant and a round of sporting clays, topped off with a round of 'flurry.' A silent and live auction helped raise funds for the FCA Outdoors ministry in the Carolinas, which is poised to spread the message of the gospel to those who would listen and acknowledge that the time they spend outdoors can bring them closer to the Lord. Amen!

Hank Parker fishing for bass - beautiful 

To view more photos from the 2013 Hank Parker Invitational click here.

To view past blog entries form the 2012 Hank Parker Invitational click here.

Ring-necked pheasant cock and FCA logo

To read my feature article on the 2013 Hank Parker Invitational click here.