As in previous years, prizes will be awarded to the top three finishers of the Bill Fish, Yellow Fin, Wahoo, Mahi-Mahi, and Skip Jack categories. A special $10,000 cash prize awaits the first fisherman who hauls in a billfish that beats the late Danny Agulto’s record marlin, weighing over 624.34 lbs.
“The Saipan Fishermen’s Association is looking forward to this weekend’s turn-out,” said SFA president Gene Weaver. “With typhoon Man-Oh moving out of our area, we’re anticipating blue skies for the event.”
“We’re excited about the addition of the $10,000 prize for anyone who can break the long-standing billfish record,” said community projects manager Martin Duenas of event cosponsor Marianas Visitors Authority. “Hopefully, this will attract more boaters to the event.”
On Friday, July 22, pre-registration and a briefing will be held at the Smiling Cove Marina Delta Weighing Station from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., where officials will explain the rules and regulations of the tournament. The cost is $150 for a captain and one angler. Each additional crewmember is $25.
All participating boats must undergo a Boat Safety Inspection. Appointments may be made with the Division of Boating Safety at 1-670-664-9180/1/2.
All boats must observe safe boating rules and regulations. Launching points will be at the Smiling Cove Marina and the Garapan Fishing Base Complex. The early angler can set sail at any of these two locations between the hours of 6-8 a.m. Any late launches must depart at the Smiling Cove Marina.
The awards banquet will be held on July 25. Additional guest tickets will be on sale during pre-registration this Friday. Major sponsors include MARPAC, Delta Air Lines, Pacifica Insurance, and Mobil.
For more information about the SFA or the upcoming tournament, contact MVA’s Frank Tudela or Ed Diaz at 1-670-664-3200/01 or send an email to [email protected] or [email protected].
Budweiser, Bud Light are beer sponsors
In addition, Marianas Pacific Distributors, Inc. and the Saipan Fishermen’s Association have jointly identified Budweiser and Bud Light, as the reigning Exclusive Beer Category Sponsors for the 27th Annual Saipan International Fishing Tournament.
“With the Saipan Fishermen’s Association sponsorship, Marianas Pacific Distributors, Inc. is proud to provide a platform for sporting events to showcase the talents and abilities of local fishing enthusiasts. We support the Saipan Fishermen’s Association’s efforts to promote the spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship in the hopes of assuring further progress in our communities,” said MPDI general manager Tom Shimizu.
Budweiser’s sponsorship agreement includes exclusive use of the SFA’s logos in advertising, point-of-sale materials, packaging, and other promotional activities.
“With the sluggish economy, the Saipan Fishermen’s Association is doing all it can to present another great tournament for its participants. Without the support of our business partners, this annual tournament would not have been possible over the years and we thank Budweiser and Bud Light for partnering up with us to further enhance this year’s tournament,” said SFA president Gene Weaver.
To many, the Budweiser brand has long been synonymous to sports. As they remain committed to the legacy of sports and entertainment, Budweiser and Bud Light continue to impress the people of Saipan with products and services that boast of high quality, integrity, and responsibility – values that have secured their title as the ‘King of Beers.’
