Fishing, Flavor and Fun in the Jamaican Sun
Island Outpost’s Oracabessa Foundation Sponsors 9th Annual St. Mary Fishing Tournament
Event For Local Community Featured Cash Prizes, Thrilling Stunt-Bike Presentations, Parades and Environmental Discussions
JAMAICA (October 19, 2006) – In celebration of Oracabessa, the vibrant fishing village in northern Jamaica, Island Outpost’s charitable Oracabessa Foundation sponsored the 9th Annual St. Mary Fisherman’s Cooperative Marlin Tournament on September 24, 2006. More than 700 local residents flocked to Oracabessa for the event, which also included stunt-bike competitions and provoking discussions of Jamaica’s environment.
The fishing tournament sported 20 canoe entries, with fishermen hailing from Oracabessa, White River and Ocho Rios. First prize was awarded to Cleon Robinson and his boat “Bulldog” for a 19.75 pound tuna catch. The team of “The Conan” may have missed the weigh-in deadline, but were awarded a substantial consolation prize for its impressive catch – a 128-pound Marlin. Port Maria Mayor Robert Montague was on hand to award prizes.
While fishermen competed at sea, the Island Sports Trust (a subset of the Oracabessa Foundation) hosted a thrilling stunt-bicycle competition, the first of its kind locally, for those on shore. Kayak races, dance competitions for all ages, and a Jonkunoo parade rounded out the festivities.
With a focus on preserving Jamaica’s beautifully pristine environment, the International School of Jamaica sponsored presentations on coastal habitat conservation, maritime management and endemic species. Participants included: the National Environmental Protection Agency; Friends of the Sea; The Maritime Authority; The Forestry Department; and the Natural History Department of the Institute of Jamaica.
The St. Mary Fisherman’s Cooperative Marlin Tournament is the latest venture in Island Outpost’s long history of charitable efforts. Chris Blackwell established Island ACTS (Assisting Communities Toward Strength) as an umbrella for Island Outpost’s many charities throughout Jamaica, which work towards the advancement of education, healthcare and community development. The Oracabessa Foundation is a non-profit limited liability organization established by Blackwell in 1995 with the mission to serve as a catalyst for the sustainable development of the town of Oracabessa and its environs. Additionally, local Island Outpost properties donate US$1 per night per room to support the organization.
About Island Outpost:
Created by Chris Blackwell, founder of Island Records and Palm Pictures, Island Outpost Jamaica Resort properties are known for their interesting character and stunning surroundings and strive to offer their clients a feeling reminiscent of staying at a friend’s home. The group includes GoldenEye, Strawberry Hill, Jake’s, and The Caves in Jamaica, Pink Sands in The Bahamas and an exclusive selection of villas.
For more information or to make bookings, call 1-800-OUTPOST or visit islandoutpost.com, 0800-OUTPOST1 in the UK.
Contacts
Public Relations US
Andria Mistakos PR
[email protected]
+1 561.266.0568
