PURE INDULGENCE SECURES CHAMPIONSHIP TITLE AT NEPTUNE SIGFA 25TH INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENT
Team Pure Indulgence wins the 25th SIGFA Tournament (Photo: SIGFA)
The 25th Samoa International Game Fishing Association (SIGFA) Tournament concluded with Pure Indulgence emerging as the victor, clinching the prestigious championship title for 2024. This thrilling event unfolded over four days, with 24 teams from Australia, New Zealand, American Samoa, and Samoa battling not only each other but also the elements of the high seas in a quest for victory.
The culmination of this exhilarating competition took place at the prize-giving ceremony held at the SIGFA headquarters in Matautu on Saturday, May 4. Distinguished guests, including the Minister for Sports and Recreation, Laumatiamanu Ringo Purcell, and Samoa Ports Authority Chief Executive Officer, So'oalo Kuresa So'oalo, graced the occasion, adding to the grandeur of the event.
Vaughan Simpson, President of SIGFA, expressed gratitude to the sponsors whose generous support made the tournament possible. He highlighted the international camaraderie displayed by overseas anglers and commended the outstanding performance of the Samoa teams, who clinched the overall best performing Country Award.
Mr. Simpson reflected on the record-breaking achievements of the tournament, noting that a total of 110 fish were caught, with an impressive 66 billfish tagged and released. Among these were notable catches, including a Black Marlin, 45 Blue Marlin, one Stripe Marlin, 18 Sailfish, and a Short billfish. Additionally, the diverse array of catches included Yellowfin, Mahimahi, Wahoo, Giant Trevally, and Barracuda.
Acknowledging the pivotal role of sponsors in making the event a success, Mr. Simpson expressed appreciation for their ongoing support. He also extended gratitude to international participants whose passion for angling contributed to the event's success.
Representing the event's Naming Rights sponsors, Neptune Direct Pacific Line, Michelle Brunt, conveyed appreciation to all participating teams for their contribution to the tournament's success. She paid tribute to SIGFA's longstanding partners, such as Apia Concrete Products Ltd, especially honoring the late Tupua Wetzell, whose legacy continues to inspire.
The tournament not only showcased individual angling prowess but also celebrated collective achievements. Ryan Simpson of Fua II secured the title of Top Angler for the second consecutive year, while Greg Hopping of Team Pure Indulgence earned the Top Skipper award.
Among notable achievements, Ivan Ah-Liki caught the biggest Barracuda, while Niko Caffarelli was the first male angler to tag and release a Billfish at the tournament. American Samoa’s Sama Fuafanua on the Aya Maria boat, caught the biggest Giant Trevally. Special recognition was also given to Seb Kohlhase, the oldest Angler, and emerging angler superstar Michael Levi, the youngest Angler.
Female anglers showcased exceptional skill, with Marge Caffarelli of Team Island Time catching the biggest Yellowfin and Karla Meredith from Team Free Spirit landing the biggest Mahimahi. Samoa’s Evelyn Meredith, of Team Free Spirit, was awarded the top Female Angler.
Team Pure Indulgence's victory not only secured bragging rights but also earned them a shot at the World Offshore Fishing Championship in Costa Rica in 2025. Captain Greg Hopping expressed pure delight at the team's victory, noting the record-breaking results from the tag and release efforts at the Neptune SIGFA International Tournament.
The success of the Neptune SIGFA 25th International Tournament was made possible through the generous support of its sponsors, including Diamond, Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Friendship sponsors, whose contributions ensured the event's success and sustainability.
In conclusion, the 25th SIGFA Tournament was a testament to the spirit of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and skill that define game fishing. As the Pure Indulgence team revels in their victory, the legacy of this tournament will continue to inspire future generations of anglers worldwide.