A fishing tournament of humble beginning as an idea among friends has now mushroomed into an activity that embraces both fisher folk and sport fishers and as well invites the national community to participate in a family-centered learning environment.
The third annual FCFA fishing tournament held on Independence Day registered 76 vessels with 336 anglers including men, women and children.
The FCFA fishing tournament is focused on the Gulf of Paria via Cunupia River, Cacandee Road.
Felicity lived up to its name of intense happiness as by mid-afternoon thousands of people gathered at the Lakhan Kariah cremation site, to witness what David Bachan, president of the FCFA, described as "one of the most exciting moments in celebrating the anniversary of our Independence."
He explained his own amazement at the fact that a simple activity mixed with education which focuses on the community, family togetherness and thinking had the power to motivate people from all parts of the country, even those in the diaspora who came to Trinidad to participate in the tournament. The Seafood Industry Development Company (SIDC) came in for high praise from the Association for the support given in this regard.
Omardath Maharaj, SIDC industry development officer, said that fishing communities had a special place in T&T's history.
"Although to some people it gives an image of ice cream, fish and chips, and playing on our beaches to others, it represents pockets of hardship and distance from the support of formal institutions," Maharaj said.
Maharaj also said fishing communities were in a strong position to benefit from the "staycation" trend, inbound tourism, low carbon businesses and economic regeneration. He said they could be a hub for entrepreneurship and are incubators of new creative business but they needed a government which would support them.
Gopaul Boodhan, mayor of Chaguanas shared his satisfaction with the activities in the borough including the corporation's intention to further explore and develop the area for agro-eco-tourism; which was well-received. Mayor Boodhan also recognised the participation of women and children in the tournament.
On September 7 there will be a prize-giving and family day at the Pierre Road Recreation Ground in Felicity. This will once again showcase the fishing community including presentations and displays by the Fisheries Division, Forestry Division, Institute of Marine Affairs, Seafood Industry Development Company Ltd (SIDC), the CEPEP Company Limited and several other private sector entities who supported the tournament.
More information: Felicity Charlieville Fishing Association on Facebook or contact 389-7413 / 683-1173.