“The greatest show in sportfishing” takes place each summer in Orange Beach, Alabama, right down the road from our ONE CLUB Gulf Shores community. As first-timers we set high standards for our participation in this year’s Blue Marlin Grand Championship, held at The Wharf.
Whether you’re an experienced fisherman or a local cheering on family or friends, the Blue Marlin Grand Championship weigh-in fishing tournament is a fun-filled event for Gulf Coast residents and visitors alike. At ONE CLUB Gulf Shores, we’re proud to call the Gulf Coast home and were thrilled to be a Premier Level Sponsor. The tournament was a perfect opportunity to engage with attendees and experience the event’s day-to-day activities.
This year did not disappoint. Due to high demand from contenders, the tournament increased its fleet from 60 to 85 boats. The tournament kicked-off in the late morning of July 12 with a boat parade on the Gulf Intracoastal in Orange Beach. Participating boats departed the docks at The Wharf while spectators looked on as they headed out to sea. Friends, family, and the general public cheered on participants anticipating the $1 million cash prize winner, determined at the weigh-in, which occurred on Friday evening. All fish caught during the tournament were donated to local food shelters.
‘Shockwave’ is the 2018 Blue Marlin Grand Champion boating in a 795.6 lb Blue Marlin
Photo Credit: http://www.bluemarlingrandchampionship.com/
We’re always looking to expand our involvement in community activities along the Gulf Coast, so participating in this year’s Blue Marlin Championship was a given. ONE CLUB Gulf Shores’ team was stationed in a centrally located tent at the tournament’s Sponsor Village.
Giveaways and free massages were a hit at ONE CLUB Gulf Shores’ tent in the Sponsor Village
At the tent, potential residents were given the chance to stay in ONE CLUB Gulf Shores’ new fully-furnished rental apartments and play our “Best 45 Holes in Golf.” We also offered up free massages and held a raffle for a $250 Visa gift card. ONE CLUB Gulf Shores’ tent was a top stop throughout the event.
Spectators and participants alike could relax and destress from tournament activities with free massages provided by ONE CLUB Gulf Shores
Attendees entered into ONE CLUB Gulf Shores’ raffle in hopes of winning a $250 Visa gift card
Aside from the fishing tournament, this year’s Blue Marlin Grand Championship had plenty of events open for anyone looking to join the fun. A new addition to 2018’s week-long celebration was the Blue Marlin Miler: 5K and One Mile Fun Run. Both runs took place at The Wharf and raised donations for the children and families of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Participants’ support will aid in funding treatment costs, housing, and food.
The 2018 Blue Marlin Grand Championship was a complete success Spectators, participants, and sponsors can all agree the tournament brought the community together for a great cause. At ONE CLUB, we are happy to give back while supporting our Gulf Coast community. We look forward to attending more local events in the near future.