In a thrilling display of skill and determination, Frenchly Bryan, affectionately known as Kush, alongside his team of fishermen from Mason Hall, Oracabessa, St Mary, emerged victorious at the 21st Oracabessa Bay Marlin Tournament. The event, held at the Oracabessa Bay Fishing Village on Sunday, saw over 60 boats vying for the prestigious title. Bryan and his team set sail at 6:00 am aboard their vessel, ‘Lady Camille,’ and returned triumphantly after 4:00 pm with the heaviest marlin of the day, weighing an impressive 127 pounds. Bryan, who had previously come close to winning in Portland, expressed his elation, ‘It’s a happy moment for me. We faced challenges, but we persevered and got the big catch.’ The team’s victory earned them $100,000, a Yahama boat engine valued at $500,000, and other sponsored prizes. The event, conceptualized in 1995 by Chris Blackwell of the Golden Eye Foundation and the Oracabessa Fisheries Association, continues to be a highlight for fishermen across the island, offering not only glory but also substantial rewards. Tajhema Williams, a member of the winning team, shared her excitement, ‘It was a nice experience, especially when we got the big catch. We’re looking forward to next year.’ The tournament, supported by major sponsors like the Tourism Enhancement Fund, Yamaha, and Grace Foods, was a resounding success, drawing scores of residents from Oracabessa and surrounding communities. Travis Graham, Executive Director of the Golden Eye Foundation, praised the event’s seamless execution, ‘This event has been incident-free over the years, and I want to thank the people of Oracabessa for another great event.’ The day concluded with celebrations as supporters gathered at the shore, eagerly anticipating the fishermen’s return with their prized marlin catches.
