Approximately 120 anglers are lined up to participate in the Republic Bank St. Lucia International Billfish Tournament 2026, scheduled for September 22 – 26.
Organsiers, sponsors and corporate partners gathered at the IGY Rodney Bay Marina, last Friday, for the media launch and updates on the major upcoming global sports event. Representatives from the main sponsors Republic Bank were present in full force to support the event.
The tournament has been billed as a major event on the island’s sports tourism agenda and recognized for its significant ripple effects redounding to its economic spin-offs and social contribution.
Organsiers anticipate a thrilling event, promoting the tournament as “three exciting days of fishing, evening entertainment, a lay day and the grand prize-giving ceremony.”
Ryan Devaux, tournament organizer reflected on the growth of the tournament and its wider appeal globally. He highlighted the youth participation in the event and the prospects for the continued growth and development of these young athletes. Devaux acknowledged the input of the Organizing Committee for “putting in a lot of work,” towards the hosting of this event.
IGY Rodney Bay Marina plays a pivotal role as the host venue and sponsor for the Billfish Tournament, and its General Manager Sean Devaux spoke excitedly about the event. He noted that the event has grown over the years with about 26 to 28 boats due to participate this year.
Commenting on IGY Rodney Bay Marina’s role, he articulated: “Every year, we find it very important to be that gateway and to show an alternative option, in terms of tourism; create diversity in Saint Lucia’s tourism product while developing sports, building friendships and building communities, which helps towards the growth of the economy and the destination.”
Ron Leon, Country Manager at Republic Bank EC Ltd. (Saint Lucia) stated that the firm “is extremely happy to once again support this venture.” Noting that the bank has supported this event for the past four (4) years, he remarked: “It has been an amazing partnership.”
Speaking on the partnership with the Billfish organsiers, and particularly its linkage with the St Lucia Game Fishing Association (SLGFA), Leon said the bank was drawn in due to the significance of the sport.
He asserted: “Alternative Sports in Saint Lucia needs to be explored a lot more …and Republic Bank is deeply invested in communities.”
Leon added, “We are also deeply interested in sustainability, and Billfishing allows us to align to both.”
Clivus Jules, Director of Sports endorsed the tournament, stating the Ministry of Sports remain committed to the growth and promotion of this event “and is very excited to be part of this event for another year.” He reiterated about the economic spin-offs from the event, and furthermore “the legacy of the FADs,” which is highlighted as a sustainable development component in the wider marine structure.
Jules is also pleased with “the youth program that is coming on stream,” and “it will do well not just for Billfishing, but for our sporting community in general.”
A SLTA representative spoke broadly about the economic benefits gained from this exciting global event and its wider global appeal in promoting the destination.
The St Lucia Game Fishing Association (SLGFA) presented its schedule of events, as follows:
September 22 – Registration Day and Skippers Briefing
September 23 – Day I Fishing – Evening Entertainment
September 24 – Day 2 Fishing – Evening Entertainment
September 25 – Lay Day
September 26 – Day 3 Fishing and Prize Giving Ceremony
In anticipation the grand event featuring participation from local, regional and international anglers, an online comment from the IGY Rodney Bay Marina states: “The boats are getting ready, the lines are set, and the countdown is on.
“Day 1 of the St. Lucia Billfishing Tournament begins September 23, with Rodney Bay Marina serving as a hub for boats and crews throughout tournament week.
“Let the chase begin!”
[R.A]
