Low turnout for marlin tournament

Gareth Davis Sr, Gleaner Writer

Although 27 boats registered for the 46th staging of the Port Antonio Blue Marlin tournament, only 23 started out yesterday morning in the angling competition, which will be held over five days.

The competition was declared open at about 8 a.m. by Custos of Portland, Roy Thompson, who deputised for Governor General Sir Patrick Allen.

"Once again, the town of Port Antonio is home to this prestigious tournament," Thompson said. "This is an international tournament, and although the turnout in terms of entries is less than last year, I am sure that this angling competition will live up to its expectations."

Last year, the competition attracted 28 boats, including three overseas entries.

The fishing boat Intrepid, which finished second in last year's competition, led the boats out to sea, as the winner of that competition, Prestige, was notably absent.

The competition will take a break on Wednesday to make way for the 26th staging of the local canoe tournament.

The heaviest landed marlin last year weighed 250lbs, and 21 marlins were tagged and released.

The tournament climaxes on Friday, with a prize-giving ceremony at the old marina, to be followed by the settling of accounts on Saturday.