In less than six days, 27 wounded war heroes will embark on the fishing adventure of a lifetime on the pristine waters surrounding California’s Channel Islands. Our CEO Anthony Hsieh will be joined by some of the finest and most notable sport fishermen in the world as they put their skills to the test to try to catch the best and biggest that Southern California waters have to offer.
Divided into 11 teams, the seasoned captains aboard each yacht will demonstrate their knowledge of the local waters as they help their Veterans find Calico, Rockfish, Halibut, Yellowtail, Yellow- and Bluefin Tuna, Dorado, Marlin and Swordfish. Prizes will be awarded based on individual and team performance. Knowing the enthusiasm and competitive nature of the yacht owners and their captains, this tournament will be one to remember for all involved.
Bringing this tournament to life has been a passion for Hsieh, who was inspired to expand the event after an excursion he led for Veterans last year. His goal is to make this an annual event that continues to grow with each passing year. Given the interest and excitement generated by the SoCal sport fishing community, his vision is crystallizing into a formal dedicated event.
A special shout-out to all of the sport fishing yacht owners, captains and crews who are so graciously donating their yachts, time and skill to this event:
Boat Owner Captain
Bad Company 92 Anthony Hsieh Steve Lassley
Bull Pen David Dubois David Dubois
Chaser Greg Chase Mike “Beak” Hurt
Entourage Jim Birmingham Ned Falschlehne
Gambler Richard Peckham Billy Miyagawa
Good Karma Bob Lienau Evan Kruger
Joint Venture Colby Durnin Jimmy Kingsmill
Motivator Mark Mitchell Tom Shanahan
Pacific Pioneer Mike Blower Kyle Dickerson
Play N Hookey Bill Larkin Luis Fernando Palomino
Wild in Sac Steve Morgan, Dave Hansen
Mark Heinz, Joe Leoy
Next up: Meeting our Veterans next week at the prelude Reception! Don’t miss a moment of the Tournament action. Follow us on social here or here.