What a night it was with Austin Powers and his entire cast of characters partying with other TBF friends at the Marriott Harbor Beach Resort! Yeah Baby!!!! They shagged and boogied down late into the night. TBF’s party again topped the “hot party charts” for the week of the Ft. Lauderdale Boat Show, it was “The” event!

Bacardi libations kept the evening flowing smoothly and Marriott’s top chefs pleasured palates, even with an Austin Power’s image on desserts. Guests enthusiastically supported the silent and live auctions taking home outstanding art, trips, tackle, electronics and jewelry!

Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented to three individuals for their decades of commitment to fish conservation, engaging constituents, advancing responsible fishing practices and billfish science. Winners were: Rybovich Lifetime Achievement Award – Captain Frank “Skip” Smith, Paxson H. Offield Lifetime Science Award – Dr. James Franks and Winthrop P. Rockefeller Lifetime Achievement Award – Carl Liederman.

Two Club of Excellence Awards were presented to big game fishing clubs that have significantly contributed to the conservation and management of fish, furthered responsible fishing practices and camaraderie within the sport. The winners were: Ocean City Light Tackle Club and The Tuna Club of Avalon.

Costume competition was tough, but the audience selected outstanding winners, including: Team Garmin for Group Award; Maria Magaljaes for Top Female, and Captain Frank “Skip” Smith for Top Male winner.

Distinguished businesses in our sportfishing industry made the gala party possible and deserve a great deal of recognition. Please purchase from these businesses, knowing you are again helping billfish conservation, great sportfishing opportunities, and related businesses. Thank you again to Garmin Marine, One Vanilla, Yamaha Marine Group, Casa de Campo Marina, C&L Insurance, Viking Yachts, Viking Yachts Service Center, Galati Yachts, Grady White Boats, HMY Yachts, Steiner Optics, Recreational Fishing Alliance, Release Marine, and Louisiana CAT.

Mark your calendar for FRIDAY, November 1, 2019 for next year’s party!!