Regional energy company West Indies Petroleum Limited (WIPL) has agreed to be among the main sponsors of the 38th staging of the Port Antonio Local Canoe Tournament, which is to sail off at the ‘Di Old Marina’ in Portland on October 11.

The start will at 7:00 am and is scheduled to go up to 4:00 pm.

This event comes just ahead of the 59th staging of the International Marlin Fishing and Canoe Tournament, which takes place October 12-15.

Approximately 180 fisherfolk from all across Jamaica are set to participate in the tournaments.

WIPL will contribute $250,000 to purchase trophies and provide 300 gallons of outboard mixed gasoline (E-10-87) with required additives for 60 canoes. The fuel will be available on October 10, 2022, a day before the tournament. WIPL will also present a trophy for the heaviest fish caught.

Commenting on WIPL’s decision to support the tournament, Chief Executive Officer Charles Chambers said: “As a Jamaica-based regional fuel supplier we are willing to play our part in supporting an initiative that will not only bring good cheer to the community and a host of fisherfolk across the country, but we recognise that support is important because many people look to the tournament as an opportunity to enhance their livelihood and sustenance.”

In weighing in, WIPL Senior Vice-President Danville Walker said: “Indeed, when possible, West Indies Petroleum is happy to support these activities, because we appreciate that tournaments such as these are designed to promote sport fishing, and, crucially, have the potential of enhancing the tourism product to the benefit of surrounding communities and the wider tourism enterprise in Jamaica — so we must do what we can to ensure this year’s event goes ahead.”