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Friday 27 February 2026
It was a beautiful day out at sea, and there were high hopes for the mighty marlin to be conquered, but these monsters of the ocean had other ideas. Lesser aquatic giants, playfully called maco-marlin because of their habit of impersonating their supriors, caused a bit of excitement when Team Simrad called in a hook-up just fifteen minutes before lines-up. The thrill was unfortunately short-lived, and word soon came through that they had been fooled!
This evening’s final function was, as usual, a superb occasion. Marinda and her staff provided an amazing Lamb Spit for dinner, and the well-organised programme went off without a hitch. Thanks to Marinda, Dahlene and Grant.
The theme for the week was “I can’t believe you’re wearing that to TOMT” which left the choice of clothing wide open to the imagination. Team Gambler pulled out all the stops with their Gangster and Moll outfits at the opening function and were the landslide winners for the best-dressed team.
I would also like to make special mention of another team that dressed most appropriately for TOMT by turning up in different matching team shirts each night. Nerina – your guys are awesome!
A special award was presented to Gawie Bruwer, a founding member of The Two Oceans Marlin Tournament. As has been mentioned before, Gawie has participated in every tournament since its inception in 2007. His boat, Indigo, won First Prize in 2009 and has been a runner-up a few times, too.
One of our most cherished sponsors, Chas Everitt, has stood by the tournament for nineteen years. It was their wonderful idea to run the “Call Back the Past” blog series as a countdown to the Twentieth Tournament, and we are deeply grateful for their continued support.
Our tournament manager, Grant van der Westhuyzen, is not only a competitor but also an agent for Chas Everitt, owned by his mother‑in‑law, Strepies. As a small token of appreciation for her unwavering support of TOMT, we have sent Strepies a special bottle of wine.
In the Anglers’ Goodie Bags, Airmar stickers were included. Two of them would be prize-winning stickers. All the skipper had to do was put it on his boat, take a photo and submit it for judging. Only Grant Crighton, Airmar representative, would recognise the two winning stickers, which he revealed at the final function and presented the prizes.
There was also a lucky draw prize, which Earl Fenwick – 1971/72 Springbok Angler, had the honour of drawing. Earl, who ably helps Andrew Perrins, safety officer for the tournament, was sorely missed this week as he had to spend five days in hospital. We are delighted to report that he is fully recovered from his malady and is back in fine fettle.
There was also another draw. I was asked to draw the first ticket, and The Gambler it was! Dahlene dipped in and called Onlyfins to receive their prize.
Finally, it was time to announce the winner of the Twentieth Two Oceans Marlin Tournament. This year, only one marlin was caught, measured and released, so it was no surprise when Bad Company was announced. Finally, it was time to announce the winner of the Twentieth Two Oceans Marlin Tournament. This year, only one marlin was caught, so it was no surprise when Bad Company was announced as the winning team. Well done to these awesome anglers. Read Matthew’s tale of tangling with a marlin in the previous blog post! Read Matthew’s tale of tangling with a marlin in the previous blog post!
Once again, the Two Oceans Marlin Tournament proved to be a highlight for everyone involved. Many anglers shared how much they enjoyed their week, and it’s clear that this event is about far more than the thrill of the catch — it’s about community, camaraderie, and the joy of gathering with people who share a love for the ocean.
A heartfelt thank‑you goes to Marinda and her exceptional team of catering staff and bar ladies. Your hard work, warm hospitality, and seamless service ensured that every meal and every moment was a pleasure. From the friendly smiles at the bar to the flawless coordination behind the scenes, your dedication was felt and appreciated by all.
Deep appreciation also goes to the remarkable individuals who kept the tournament running smoothly.
Dahlene, your meticulous record‑keeping and financial oversight kept everything on track.
Grant, as tournament director, and Dudley, as Club President, your steady leadership and coordination were invaluable.Andrew, your commitment as safety officer ensured that every aspect of the event was conducted responsibly, and your spirited contributions to the auction — along with the traditional strafdoppe and snuff sniffs — added their usual touch of fun.
And to Trevor (Spotter One), always ready to respond to radio calls from the boats at sea, your reliability and calm presence are deeply appreciated.
Finally, our sincere gratitude goes to all our sponsors for their generous support. Your contributions elevate the experience for participants and spectators alike, helping us bring this tournament to life year after year. It is through partnerships like yours that we can create such meaningful and memorable moments. Thank you for believing in this event and for being an essential part of its success.
Adventuring into Retirement 