BUDWEISER will send the champions of the 39th Saipan International Fishing Tournament to Majuro, the Marshall Islands in late September to take part in the All Micronesia Fishing Tournament, Marpac Inc. Resident Manager Guy Pudney said. Marpac is the local distributor of Budweiser beer products in the CNMI.
Paul and James Roberto, the father and son duo who reeled in a 140lb marlin on July 23 to win the local fishing tournament, will have their airfare, lodging, transportation, fishing gear and boat provided for them, Pudney said.
The Robertos qualified for their trip when they entered a special “side-bet” fundraising category of the Saipan International Fishing Tournament.
Pudney said around 15 participating teams each paid a $100 entrance fee, with all proceeds going to the Saipan Fishermen’s Association.
“I really wish there was more participation just to get a chance to win this prize and experience another tournament and derby and see how [other fishing associations] do it,” Pudney said.
He added that all in all, the trip to Mrjuro is equivalent to around $7,000-$8,000 in prizes.
“If you’re looking to catch a big marlin, that’s usually the tournament you’re going to get it in,” Pudney said, referring to the All Micronesia event.
He hopes fishing can bridge the different parts of Oceania together.
“What we’re trying to do is build this network for all the fishermen and all the fishing associations so that they can network and build camaraderie,” Pudney said, adding that Budweiser also sponsors fishing tournaments in Guam, Palau, Pohnpei, the Marshall Islands, and American Samoa.
“We want to build a more personal relationship among these organizations, and I think it’s going to happen very soon,” Pudney said.
