Team Flame Tree, captained by Peter Levastam, is predicted to emerge victorious in the inaugural Flame Tree-sponsored Fiji Classic Game Fishing 2024, which will commence this weekend. This highly anticipated tournament is organized by the Denarau Game and Sports Fishing Club, marking the beginning of an exciting annual event.
Notable participants include seasoned anglers such as Jared Wood (Ice T), Thakor Punja (Lunasea), Darren Smith (Hoodlum), Alex Leigh, and the ever-reliable Marc McElrath. Representing the women’s category is Cristina Valente from Sidestep. Tournament coordinator Glenn Wakeman has confirmed that the event has drawn competitors both locally and internationally.
The rewards for the tournament are impressive; the winning team will secure an invitation to the Offshore World Championship in Costa Rica in 2025, alongside a cash prize of $10,000. In addition to the main prize, there will be various awards based on species caught, individual anglers, and boats, including spot prizes. The tournament will be hosted at the new Clubhouse at Port Denarau Marina, adjacent to Sails Restaurant.
Wakeman pointed out that participants will also compete for substantial cash prizes and high-quality fishing gear. The major tournament awards include a Tournament Trophy for the Champion Team, the $10,000 cash prize, along with consolation prizes for the Big Boat Team, and accolades for the Champion Male, Female, and Junior Anglers, as well as for the Last Man Standing.
In the ongoing season’s teams’ standings, Flame Tree currently leads with 2313.7 points, followed closely by Ice T with 2278.4 points, Hoodlum at 1715.5, Lunasea at 100 points, Rawhiti at 250 points, and Sere Na Ua at 123.4 points. The top individual anglers’ leaderboard features Wood with 1771.8 points, Levestam with 1500 points, Punja with 1000 points, and Smith with 555.4 points.
This tournament not only celebrates the enthusiasm for game fishing but also promotes camaraderie among anglers worldwide, creating more opportunities for connections and shared experiences. The competition is a wonderful way to engage with nature and enjoy the beautiful Fijian waters.
This event is shaping up to be a thrilling weekend, and it fosters hope for the growth of local fishing sports and tourism in Fiji.
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