Amanzimtoti angler prepares for first international tournament

MICHELLE Richards of Amanzimtoti has achieved her Protea Colours for deep sea angling and is now preparing for two international competitions.

Since the beginning of her angling journey in about 2011, Richards, who is a member of both Warnadoone Skiboat Club and Natal Rod and Reel in Durban, has taken part in many competitions, starting from interclub events and gradually progressing to interzonal, interprovincial and national tournaments, all affiliated with the Natal Deep Sea Angling Association (NDSAA), and eventually attaining her national colours under the South African Deep Sea Angling Association (SADSAA) banner.

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With each step, she had to meet specific requirements and participate in a number of competitions to move up the ranks, all while showcasing her passion and skills within the game fish and bottom fish facets.

She has now attained her Protea Colours and will be taking part in the 2nd IGFA El Gouna International Tournament in Egypt in February.

She will also captain the all-women’s team in the SADSAA Bottomfish Invitational International to be held in Struisbaai, Western Cape, at the end of April.

Richards said, “It has been a journey and a challenge, but getting to this point has always been my ultimate goal. I’ve also received a lot of support from our angling associations, clubs, selectors, fellow anglers and skippers over the years, as well as my family and friends, so I’m looking forward to this.”

Despite the challenges in a sport predominantly dominated by men, Richards said she has remained determined to prove herself and her abilities.

“It hasn’t always been easy, but it has been worth it. More and more women are showing interest and excelling in the sport, and over the years, I’ve seen how the sport is evolving to facilitate us,” she said.

Her journey has been marked by moments of triumph, including All Africa records of a Prodigal Son weighing 14.6kg, a Mussel Cracker tipping the scales at 28.5kg, and a Wahoo of 26.4kg.

When she is not out at sea, she enjoys facilitating and riding horses along the beach.

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