The 60th Annual International Marlin Fishing Tournament concluded on September 24 with this latest staging of the event partnering with premium spirits purveyor Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum.

Kamal Powell, regional marketing manager, J.Wray and Nephew Limited, said the team at Appleton Estate was grateful to have been given the opportunity to partner with the organisers of the long-standing tournament, especially given the current state of Jamaica and the world. 

“Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum is always looking to showcase Brand Jamaica and to communicate the importance of championing the reasons Jamaica is celebrated across the world. The Annual International Marlin Tournament is one such Jamaican product that sets our little island apart as unique, competitive, and culturally rich,” he said. 

Powell pointed out that while the competition has been undoubtedly hampered by the COVID-19 pandemic, it was still able to deliver a niche experience to lovers of the sport who are looking to see this event continue to thrive safely throughout and beyond the pandemic. 

Tournament Director Bertram Clarke, who is also commodore at the Montego Bay Yacht Club, said Bertram Clarke said the ongoing partnership with Appleton Estate Jamaica Rum “validates” their belief that the Marlin Tournament is indeed something special. 

“It was amazing to receive a sponsorship from the Appleton Estate brand. That validates our belief that we have something special [in the Annual International Marlin Tournament]. It also helps that we are able to stage the event at a special location,” he said. 

Clarke said he was content with the 60th staging of the event, considering the circumstances.

“Under the circumstances, we are very happy with the staging of the event, and to have a boat from Florida come down to fish made the event even more special,” he added. 

According to Clarke, going forward, they are hoping to get the annual tournament back to 20 or more boats to “grow the sponsorship”. 

“Our marine conservation efforts will also continue,” he concluded.