Though weather leading up to the 3rd Annual Grand Bahama Shipyard’s Youth Benefit Fishing Tournament held on April 6th in Freeport, GBI was not looking good, the rains held off and despite rough seas the fishing was competitive and the support strong.
“It was pretty rough”, said David Mellor, President of Executive Marine and now two-time GBSY fishing champion. “We went pretty far out to some good spots we know. We landed the mahi-mahi, which was 35 pounds, and then lost an even larger one. Everyone was disappointed but we keep going and then landed the three other types of fish, to just get the win this year.”
Reuben Byrd, Executive VP at Grand Bahama Shipyard, who started the tournament, also participated in both days of fishing. “We were extremely lucky with the weather, it was a good day fishing, for a good cause, and it’s wonderful that our staff also attended to support our fundraising efforts.”
The two day fishing events all assisted the GBSY with raising much needed funds for West End, Grand Bahama schools as well as to complete shipyard efforts already started at Eight Mile Rock track and sports field. Attending the on-land fundraising family fun day was local Minister for Grand Bahama, the Honourable Dr. Michael Darville.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed the day;· said Darville. “Best of all is knowing that the shipyard and its industrial partners will assist local schools: Bartlett Hill Primary. Martin Town Primary, Holmes Rock Primary Schools and Eight Mile Rock High School.”
“Once again our corporate partners showed their gracious support of the tournament with pledging over $70.000 in sponsorship monies! After expenses, we anticipate having around $65,000 to accomplish our projects at the West Ends schools,” said Ed Pavey, Tournament Director and GBSY Director of Technical & Planning. “I am extremely pleased with the participation of the anglers and community support and attendance for the family fun day. Grand Bahama Yacht Club is a perfect venue for such an event and I extend the utmost gratitude to Mr. Preben Olesen and his staff for hosting our tournament again this year. I would also like to personally thank Minister Darville and the Ministry of Gran Bahama for their support and participation in this year’s tournament.
RESULTS
1st Place Team Executive Marine with 2,340 points,
2nd Place Team Take Reuben’s Money with 1 ,945 points
3rd Place Team Plane to Sea with 1,565.
With largest catches going to:
Kingfish: Team Midnight – 16 pounds
Mahi-Mahi: Team Take Reuben’s Money – 35.5 pounds
Wahoo: Team Execulive Marine – 35 pounds
Snapper: Team Out Da Sea – 6.5 pounds
Grouper: Team Out Da Sea – 25 pounds
Barracuda: Team Bradford Marine – 16 pounds
Tuna: Team Plane to Sea – 20 pounds