HG Christie Sponsors 2nd Annual Elbow Reef Classic

ELBOW CAY – With an aim of preserving Elbow Reef Lighthouse on elbow Cay, Abaco, HG Christie was proud to support the 2nd Annual Elbow Reef Classic last weekend, May 29 to June 1, as some of the best sports fishermen threw their lines in waters off Elbow Cay, Abaco for one of the country’s best fishing events on the calendar.

The sportfishing tournament saw boats of six anglers for each entry, looking to catch billfish, tuna, mahi and barracuda, in a weekend of fun and comradery, with all proceeds going toward the preservation and protection of Elbow Reef Lighthouse.

When the waves settled at the end of the four-day event, ‘Floridays’ took home the top spot the Billfish awards, while ‘Still Foolish’ placed second and ‘Lauren J’ rounded out the top three.

‘Still Foolish’ sailed home with the Meatfish Award, reeling in the heaviest tuna, while ‘Blurred Lines’ finished second and ‘Reel Short Story’ placed third.

Bri Smeltzer received the Top Lady Angler award, while Andrew Nickel won Top Overall Angler.

HG Christie President and Managing Broker John Christie expressed enthusiasm at the opportunity to show support to the island’s fishing community, saying “HGC was happy to join as a second-time sponsor of this event.”

“With two offices in Abaco, one in Marsh Harbour and one in Hope Town, we are a staple in the community and support the efforts of the organizers to preserve and restore the iconic Elbow

Reef Lighthouse. After Hurricane Dorian, Abaco has made incredible efforts to bounce back and I believe it will be even better than before.”

Tournament Director Courtney Bowden called the event a smashing, describing fishing in the Abacos as the absolute best.

“We love that this tournament has brought locals and those who travel here to support this special place,” Bowden said. “This tournament attracts both first time anglers and competitive teams a variety of options to participate all united to support the last of its kind light station.”

‘Lauren J’ won the Heaviest Mahi category, with ‘Psalm 23’ taking second and ‘Grand Finally’ placing third.

‘Katie D’ won the Fun-Fish Barracuda award, reeling in the heaviest barracuda.

Events Director Kelly Ring said despite only being in its second year, the tournament holds significance to the community.

“This tournament and its support of the Elbow Reef Foundation might be my favorite event,” Ring said. “Hope Town holds such a special place in our hearts and it’s a privilege to be a small part of the mission to keep the light on.”

HG Christie Estate Agent Heather Forde-Prosa, who is also the Elbow Reef Foundation Director and Director of Development for Elbow Reef Lighthouse Society (ERLS), said the annual event raises critical funds for the ERLS to complete its mission.

“The Elbow Reef Lighthouse Society is a beacon of dedication, committed to keeping Elbow Cay’s significant history relevant and passing it on to future generations,” according to Forde-Prosa. “In a post-natural disaster environment, the preservation of our historic maritime heritage is not just crucial; it’s a call to action. It’s about reshaping our identity today and preserving a unique sense of place for the future, inspiring us all to contribute to this noble cause.”