LITTLE ROCK — Mark Rose of West Memphis has joined the Wal-Mart fishing team for the 2013 FLW Tour season.

Rose will replace George Cochran of Hot Springs, who retired this year after 32 years as a professional fisherman.

“I have so much respect and admiration for what George has accomplished and his longevity in our sport,” said Rose, who has earned more than $1.6million dollars in winnings over his 14-year career on the FLW Tour. “To be chosen to follow in George’s footsteps is an absolute honor.

“I’ve fished a long time and tried to do the best that I could do to represent good companies. I’ve shopped at Wal-Mart since I was a kid. I’m thrilled to get the opportunity to represent Wal-Mart in 2013.”

Sports, Pages 30 on 12/23/2012