2022 #WhoYouWhit Benefit and Redfish Tourney

2022  #WhoYouWhit  Artwork

The 2nd Annual Redfish Tournament to benefit Mental Health causes was held on October 8 at the Marina at Edisto Beach. Elisabeth and Carter Nelson lost their 18-year old son Whit Nelson in 2021, and he was a fixture on the beach and worked at Pressley’s Restaurant. His parents honored Whit’s memory and his passion for saltwater fishing by creating the #WhoYouWhit Benefit in the Fall of 2021, with the help of Edisto residents like Sandy Hanks and Lindsey Morrill. After a weigh-in for the 52 fishing teams, it was Team Yank ‘N Crank that won the 2022 tourney for catching the heaviest redfish. Anglers Johnny Sanders, Cal Young and Madison Utsey repeated their 2021 win, and were all friends with Whit.       
    

Team Yank'n'Crank win Back-to-Back Years!

The #WhoYouWhit benefit raises funds via $200 sponsorships, which are displayed on banners down on the docks. A silent auction during the Captain’s Meeting on the night before the tourney allows bystanders the chance to get involved and bid, independent of the tournament. T-shirt sales, unique artwork and a variety of other endeavors show the spirit behind this event. Pleasant weather on the tournament day helped the anglers to have a safe and productive day of fishing. The only hiccup came when the after-party menu had to be changed from oysters to shrimp on short notice, after Hurricane Ian caused SCDHEC to close the shellfish banks from oyster harvesting. 

            

Community Support at Benefit Auction

“This was an amazing weekend, and we could feel the love from everyone and the desire to help those who struggle with mental health,” said Elisabeth Nelson. “A huge Thank You goes to the spectators, anglers, sponsors, donors, volunteers, local businesses and the Town of Edisto Beach. New this year is the placement of a large white cross in the marsh across from the marina with the inscription, Fly High Whit. Our message remains to raise awareness for those who might be hurting, that there is help available.” The 2nd #WhoYouWhit Benefit was special, and Facebook posts from attendees are creating ripples of success on social media, offering images of what close ties and community support looks like on Edisto.

To view past blog entries from Edisto in 2022 click on Land Trust Oyster Roast - Edisto Belles Beach Walk - Edisto Billfish Tourney - I Love Edisto Auction - Botany Bay WMA Birding - Edisto Dolphin Slam 

To view past blog entries from Edisto in 2021 click on #WhoYouWhit Benefit - Edisto Water Sports Redfish Tourney - Edisto Beach Sweep - Manatee Sightings- Edisto River Sweep - CCA Barge Sunk off Edisto - Belles Beach Walk - Vacasa Purchases Atwood-  Gullah Blessing for Hutchinson House - Town Budget - Town Turtle Patrol - Edisto Billfish Tourney