MBABANE – It will cost the country over E600 000 to host the Zone VI Black Bass Championships later this year. The Swaziland Angling Association (SAA) will host the annual championships between September 8 and 12 at Maguga Dam in Northern Hhohho. Interim Manager Derek Hopf revealed his office’s budget estimates for the event, saying expenses would include accommodation, food, launching and fishing permits for 108 people.
“Most of the funds will be raised in the form of sponsorship by the national squad. We’re hoping to also get a portion from the Sports Council. It will take a team effort,” Hopf said.
“We already have Inyatsi and Swazi Plaza as our corporate sponsors so far.”
The other participating countries that include Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Namibia, Mozambique and Botswana are expected to arrive two days before the competition and will be accommodated at Maguga Lodge situated a few metres from the dam.
Teams will consist of 12 members and one reserve player. Angling will be for black bass only and competitors will use conventional rod, reel and tackle. Only live fish of 300mm and larger will be considered for weighing purposes, with a daily five bag limit.
Swaziland hosted the event between 2008 and 2009 and won gold medals. The last edition was staged in Mozambique and the country was fourth overall. Seasoned anglers that include captain Louis van Zuydam, Dave Wright, Hopf, Manny Rego and Jared van Dyk, to mention but a few, are in the national side.
Meanwhile, Hopf also announced that E340 000 was needed by the team that will leave for Lake Vicente Guerrero in Mexico for the World Championships in November. A record was set in the 2012 global showpiece in Venezuela as the country got a silver medal.
Comments are closed.