South African angling champs return from Hawaii
KELLAND – Local angling legend and his team represents South Africa at international angling tournament.
Kelland resident Andrew Bowie has added another feather to Randburg’s cap after returning from Hawaii, where he and his team competed in the 55th Annual Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament from 26 July to 2 August.
Bowie was awarded Protea colours along with his teammates Phillip Marx (team captain), Dave Martin and Eric Visser at a ceremony held at the Ernest Ullman Recreation Centre in Sandton on 22 July. After that, they travelled to Kona Island to represent their country in the prestigious event.
Spokesperson for the team Betsie Von Wielligh stated with a hint of sadness that the team unfortunately didn’t come home with any medals. China took the gold medal, Kenya received silver and Japan received bronze.
“But they did receive an award for being the team to travel the furthest in order to participate,” said Von Wielligh with enthusiasm. “The trip to Kona Island took the team 35 hours, and another 35 to come back home.”
“All the anglers had difficulty with fishing at this year’s tournament,” she explained. “The billfish is usually abundant around the island, but this year only four or five fish were pulled per team, as opposed to the usual 15 – 20 fish pulled per day during previous tournaments in recent years.”
The Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament is underwritten by the generosity of the County of Hawaii Department of Research and Development, as well as the Hawaii Tourism Authority.
