The 2025 Republic Bank Spice Island Billfish Tournament (SIBT) was officially launched at a press conference held at the Grenada Yacht Club on Friday, 22 November.
Republic Bank is the title sponsor for the tournament for the fifth consecutive year. The launch was attended by various other stakeholders including representatives from the Grenada Tourism Authority, Grenada Yacht Club Budget Marine and Century 21.
Stacey Hem Lee, General Manager Credit, at Republic Bank, delivered the title sponsor’s address. In her remarks, she stated: “As one of Grenada’s leading financial institutions, we are keenly aware of the boost this event has on our tourism industry, which, as a small island, we rely heavily on to help drive economic activity.”
Challenging the members of the Grenada Game Fishing Association, the dedicated committee which has spearheaded the organisation of the tournament successfully for the past 54 years, Hem Lee called for the inclusion of more junior participants in the sport-fishing event. She said: “Of course, we would love to see more community engagements featuring not only cultural displays but educational elements as well, particularly schools’ involvement, to foster youth engagement in marine conservation and sports. This, we believe, will help develop the next generation of anglers and environmental stewards.”
The SIBT which ranks top among game fishing events in the region, boasts its catch-and-release policy. “Reel and Shake” as it is themed will be staged from 27–31 January 2025. Addressing the audience, Natalie Bruce, Chair of the SIBT, promised an exciting 2025 tournament. In her remarks, she made a special call for increased participation from local anglers, with the added hope that the overall registration will surpass the 45 boats recorded for both 2023 and 2024.
Petra Roach, CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority, pledged its full support of the event, recognising its significant impact, particularly on the international stage. She commented: “Without a doubt, Grenada can hold the accolade as one of the most nautical destinations in the world.” She further attributed this tournament as a contributor to Grenada’s recent accolade of “Best Caribbean Destination” as voted by Carib Journal.
The SIBT attracts anglers and game fishing enthusiasts from across the region, the Cayman Islands and as far as the USA and the UK.
Republic Bank is pleased to support this event, which serves a major contributor to Grenada’s economic development.
Republic Bank
