The Tale of Chompy the Bull Shark

Down by the ocean, all shimmering and blue, A man had a fishing trip to do. With a pole in his hand and a boat full of gear, He hoped for some fish to bring home and cheer.

But deep in the water, what did he see? A bull shark mama with her babies—counted three! Two swam in circles, strong and so free, But one had a wobble; his fin bent like a “C.”

The little one’s name was Chompy, you see, He struggled to swim in the wide-open sea. “Keep up!” cried the mama, but try as he might, Chompy lagged behind, fading from sight.

The man watched in surprise as the mother swam away, Leaving poor Chompy alone in the bay. “Oh no,” whispered the man, his heart feeling tight, “I can’t let him stay here—it just isn’t right!”

So the man scooped up Chompy, so tiny and thin, And carefully placed him in a bucket within. “Don’t worry, little shark, I’ll give you a hand, You’re coming with me to Effingham.”

Back at the man’s home, in a tank clean and clear, Chompy felt safe, no need to feel fear. The man fed him and cared for his fin every day, Until it grew stronger in every way.

But soon little Chompy began to outgrow The tank where he started, much to the man’s woe. So into the bathtub Chompy did glide, Splashing and swimming with a big fishy pride.

Yet as days turned to months, and Chompy grew tall, The tub was too small—he’d no room at all! “I need a new plan,” the man said with a grin, “A place where you’ll thrive and happily spin.”

The man drove with Chompy to Lake Sara so wide, And said, “Here’s your new home—give it a try!” Chompy dove in with a flick of his tail, Happy and free, like the wind in a sail.

In the lake, Chompy made many new friends, From turtles to fish, the fun never ends. He’s known as the shark who spreads love and good cheer, Hugging his buddies and drawing them near.

The man still visits Chompy from time to time, Bringing him treats and a hug so sublime. And though it’s a lake, not the ocean so blue, Chompy’s found happiness, a dream come true.

So if you’re at Lake Sara, just take a peek, You might spot Chompy, unique and sleek. He’ll flash you a smile and swim right on by, The friendliest shark under any sky.