Department of Tourism
Former Derby Jockey Will Compete in Bass Fishing Tournament

Early Times Kentucky Whisky in conjunction with JDC Marketing are sponsoring professional angler Kevin Wirth, a former Kentucky Derby jockey, in the “Bluegrass Brawl” tournament at Kentucky Lake June 15-18.
Wirth signed on with the Louisville whisky label to fish the 2006 CITGO Bassmaster Elite Series, an 11-event premier tournament circuit offering more than $7 million in prizes to anglers. The Crestwood, Ky. resident is one of only four Kentuckians who will compete in the Kentucky Lake tournament.
Wirth has been a touring BASS pro since 1985, competing at bass fishing's highest level. The native Kentuckian has built an impressive resume since then, qualifying for the CITGO Bassmaster Classic six times and finishing in the money 72 times in 137 BASS entries.  He is currently ranked as one of the top 15 anglers in the world.
Allen Ogburn, Early Times brand manager stated: “We are thrilled to work with JDC marketing and Kevin Wirth and to become more involved in one of our consumers’ passions – fishing. JDC brings us invaluable knowledge and experience in the fishing industry while Kevin brings us the raw talent, respect and great Kentucky connections.”
In his new role, Kevin will serve as a brand ambassador at tournaments across the country, and will further solidify Team Early Times and the brand's connection to fishing. The sponsorship program is managed by JDC Marketing Group in Atlanta, GA.  JDC is well known in the fishing industry for their success with developing marketing programs and events for companies and providing professional anglers with opportunities to further their careers. 
“Team Early Times was a natural fit for me because we have so much in common,” said Wirth.  “It was a win-win situation, with the changes ESPN has made in the sport. Having great sponsor support has become essential.  Early Times is allowing me to do what I love to do and at the same time I am becoming an ambassador for a great brand.”
Daily launches and weigh-ins are free and open to the public at Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park, 113 Administration Drive, in Gilbertsville, Ky. Anglers launch at 5:30 a.m. CT and weigh-in at 3 p.m. CT.
Team Early Times consists of Kevin Wirth and three semi-pro teams based in Kentucky and Texas. Early Times Kentucky Whisky is enjoyed in 28 countries around the world and the Early Times Mint Julep is the "Official Drink of the Kentucky Derby™."
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The Kentucky Department of Tourism, an agency of the Kentucky Commerce Cabinet, exists to promote The Commonwealth as a travel destination, generate revenue and create jobs for Kentucky’s economy.