The annual Portland International Marlin Tournament, against the backdrop of the Ole Marina in Port Antonio, will take place next week Wednesday, marking the 60th anniversary of the tournament, a milestone in the world of sport fishing.

Hosted by the Sir Henry Morgan Angling Association, the tournament’s media launch was held at CRU Bar and Kitchen on Monday, October 9, in commemoration of its end legacy that continues to draw conservation-minded anglers and passionate sport fishing enthusiasts.

Maxim Rochester, Sir Henry Morgan Anglers Association director, has paved the way for the three angling competitions, including the 2023 Canoe Tournament, the 2024 Port Antonio Spring Tournament, and the 2023 60th Port Antonio International Marlin Tournament, nestled within the heart of Port Antonio.

During the launch, Rochester emphasised the tournament’s ethos: “Our philosophy is not just to be fishermen. When we enter a community, we strive to understand their needs. Any marlin under 99 inches or 300 pounds is released back into the wild as an environmental measure.”

He expressed appreciation for the sponsors whose support makes the tournament possible, including Sterling Asset Management, First Rock, Best Dressed Chicken, Jamaica Bauxite Mining, Guardian Group, Hi-Pro Ace, and West Indies Petroleum.

Sable-Joy McLaren, group marketing manager for First Rock Group, lauded the tournament’s journey. “We’re proud to be the title sponsor, and we stand beside you with pride. It’s a pleasure to witness the gathering of individuals who share a love for the sea and the pursuit of marlin. This tournament is more than a competition; it’s a testament to the spirit of sportsmanship, adventure, and camaraderie,” she said.

Among the sponsors is Sterling Asset Management, which issponsoring a boat this year. The investment house recognises the impact of tournaments like the Port Antonio International Marlin Tournament on nation-building. Toni-Ann Neita-Elliott, vice-president, sales & marketing at Sterling Asset Management, expressed: “We are pleased to be a sponsor, and we have been for 10 years. On behalf of the team, we want to wish the organisers a successful event, and to the participants, we wish you calm seas and tight lines!”