KFC Jamaica backs 62nd Port Antonio International Marlin Tournament in support of Jamaica’s fishing heritage

Kandine West, Marketing Officer at KFC Jamaica, shares remarks during the launch of the 62nd Port Antonio International Marlin Tournament, held at 100 on Hope Road on October 9, 2025. She is joined by Stephen Sterling, Director of Operations at the National Baking Company, Andrew Alexander Vice President, Sales & Marketing at Sterling Asset Management Ltd and Maxim Rochester, Chairman of the Sir Henry Morgan Angling Association.

Energy and anticipation flowed through 100 on Hope Road Thursday evening as anglers, sponsors, and supporters gathered to launch the 62nd Port Antonio International Marlin Tournament, presented by Sterling Asset Management under the Sir Henry Morgan Angling Association. KFC Jamaica, one of the event’s proud partners, joined fellow sponsors and participants in celebrating the launch, which signalled the return of one of Jamaica’s most beloved sporting traditions set to cast off from October 22 to 25 in the waters of Port Antonio.

Described by many as the “Super Bowl for anglers,” the tournament continues to attract fishing enthusiasts from across the island and abroad, with 16 to 18 boats expected to compete. Alongside the main event, the Canoe Tournament, the largest of its kind in Jamaica, will precede the competition, bringing together local fisherfolk from Portland and neighbouring parishes. Beyond the thrill of the catch, the tournaments celebrate Jamaica’s maritime heritage, resilience, and camaraderie.

KFC Jamaica has once again joined the list of proud partners, contributing approximately $600,000 in meals to support the annual Canoe Tournament, the main Marlin competition, and meals for both the Captain’s Briefing on October 22 and the Closing Awards Ceremony on October 25.

Kandine West, Marketing Officer at KFC Jamaica, commended the organizers for their enduring commitment to the tournament’s success.

“Sixty-two years is no small feat. It speaks to the resilience and dedication of everyone who continues to bring this tournament to life,” she said. “KFC is honoured to support an event that uplifts communities, celebrates Jamaica’s spirit, and keeps our traditions thriving.”

Sir Henry Morgan Angling Association Chairman, Maxim Rochester, expressed gratitude to sponsors for their unwavering support and understanding during a challenging economic period.

“We thank KFC, West Indies Petroleum, Yamaha Jamaica, and National Baking Company for their continued support of this event,” he said. “The banner showing the logos of our sponsors speaks eloquently of how many sponsors we are blessed with. Covid is now long past, but like the Jamaica Stock Exchange, we are still struggling to recover. This year has been a very difficult one for many businesses in Jamaica, including our sponsors, and the fact that they continue to support us to the level they do is humbling.”

Sterling Asset Management’s Vice President of Trading and Investment, Marian Ross-Ammar, also applauded the organizers for their commitment and discipline in keeping the tradition alive.

“For over a decade, this tournament has been part of Sterling’s tradition,” she stated. “It’s a way for us to celebrate sport while strengthening our bond with the community. We congratulate the team on their continued hard work in making each year’s event a success.”

The evening ended on a warm note of laughter and connection, a reflection of the unity and shared pride that continue to make the Port Antonio International Marlin Tournament a standout event on Jamaica’s sporting calendar.