Cozumel Sees Record Turnout For Annual Sport Fish Competition – Island Congratulates Winners of the 34th Mexican Boat Rodeo

Offering some of the best game fishing in Mexico, the island of Cozumel hosts several annual sport fish tournaments throughout the spring, the most popular being its annual Mexican Boat Rodeo. This year more than 167 boats and 500 fishermen participated in the 34th annual Mexican Boat Rodeo, held May 13 to15, making it the largest turnout in the tournaments history.

Teams set out early Sunday morning, May 15, in search of blue and white Marlin. After sailing for more than seven hours, boats came in bringing with them some of the largest Marlin, Dorado, and Wahoo around. Locals enjoyed the festivities that surrounded the tournament and cheered as each fish was weighed in. The prized catch of the day was a Marlin that weighed in at an astounding 155.87 pounds. Caught by Armando Lopez Rosado, the Marlin earned him first place in the tournament along with the top prize, a brand-new Ford pickup truck. Rosado, who comes from Punta Allen, Mexico, was also honored as the tournament’s “Best Captain” for which he received a new Yamaha motorcycle.

A private awards dinner was held for the winners at Panchos Backyard Restaurant, where the Mayor of Cozumel, Gustavo Ortega, was in attendance to present the prizes. At the ceremony eight prizes, with a combined total value of $100,000 U.S., were awarded. Prizes were also given to the “Best Captain” and “Best Sailor” in the tournament.

Recognized as one of Mexico’s premier sporting events, Cozumel’s annual Mexican Boat Rodeo brings together competitors from Mexico and around the world to catch Blue Marlin, White Marlin, Wahoo, Dorado, Tuna, Barracuda and other game fish.

The island of Cozumel, named “The Land of the Swallows” by the Maya who inhabited it more than 2,000 years ago, is located in the state of Quintana Roo, east of the Yucatan Peninsula. Situated along the world’s second-largest reef network and home to the famed Palancar Reef, discovered by Jacques Cousteau in 1962, Cozumel boasts a first-class international dive and snorkel reputation. Cozumel has also established itself as a prime golf, honeymoon and family vacation destination. In a Money magazine survey, Cozumel was recognized as a top vacation destination, noted for its diversity, offering something for every traveler, and great vacation value. Visit Cozumel on the World Wide Web at www.islacozumel.com.mx

May 31, 2005   Posted in: Mexico