18th Annual Sports Fishing Tournament set for this weekend
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| Allistair Yearwood-left and Arthur Anslyn-right |
ZIZ News…Oct 17, 2012 — Plans for the hosting of the 18th annual Sports fishing tournament are well on the way. This was revealed on Tuesday by two members of the organizing committee, Messrs Arthur Anslyn and Allistair Yearwood. Anslyn, a renowned sea man and former sea Captain, predicted that the weather will clear up by Friday, while noting that the island was still receiving the ‘dregs’ of Tropical Storm Rafael.
Guadeloupe, St. Kitts, host Nevis, St. Baths, Antigua and St.Croix have all confirmed participation. A large contingent is also expected from St. Maarten. Meanwhile, there is a huge possibility that participating boats will arrive from Montserrat and Saba.
Registration will be completed on Friday 19th October when the majority of the foreign boats are set to arrive and the main event will take place on Saturday 20th October. The boats will push out at 5.00 am and are required to return by 3.00 pm.
The basic rules still apply:
• Fish must be caught on rod and reel
• No hand lines and harpoons allowed
• Qualifying fish are: Wahoo; Tuna; King Fish and Dolphin
• Marlin and Bill fish are not among the qualifying fish-mainly for conservation reasons
Prizes will be awarded to the following top Fishers a prize giving ceremony held on Saturday evening:
• Top Male Angler
• Top Female Angler
• Top Junior Angler
• Prizes will also be awarded to the individuals with the largest qualifying fish. The overall winner will be judged based on the most pounds of the qualifying fish.
Mr. Anslyn took time out to thank the Port Authority officials who normally assist in a big way by accommodating the foreign arrivals and departures, at the Oualie Beach. These include Customs and Immigration officials.
Mr. Yearwood for his part was grateful for the impact that the annual tournament plays as regards Sports Tourism. He noted that the Fishermen normally bring along entire families: Spouses and children inclusive. They normally book hotel rooms; rent vehicles; take scenic tours; enjoy the local cuisine, among other activities and therefore contribute significantly to the local economy, over the weekend of the tournament.
Both gentlemen, apart from inviting the general public to the event, called on parents to bring out their children, as they can learn a lot and would have fun in the process, but also for them to become interested in the sport, so that they can one day lead the charge in organizing the tournament.
All eyes will be on local champion, Clevin Christmas, aboard his beloved ‘BLACK FIN.’ He has been the main winner of the tournament over the years.