KEY WEST, Fla. – In honor of the 100th anniversary of Naval Aviation, the 9th annual World Sailfish Championship will be formally kicked off April 12 by a military flyover and color guard presentation at Mallory Square.
The flyover will be a joint effort by the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard. It follows the captain’s registration and meeting, with opening Caterpillar Kick-Off Party Powered by Pantropic capping the evening.
“Because of the anniversary, the U.S. Coast Guard also will join in and I don’t believe that’s ever been done before,” said Christopher King with Executive Adventures and founder of the World Sailfish Championship. “The Navy and Coast Guard will fly over jointly to recognize their heroes, and that’s just the kickoff party to get things started.”
Naval Aviation formally began on May 8, 1911, when Capt. Irving Chambers outlined contract specifications for the Navy’s first aircraft. Since then, myriad technological advances have benefited the Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Coast Guard aviation forces in their efforts to protect and serve American interests at home and around the world.
The World Sailfish Championship, set for April 12-16 in beautiful Key West, is expected to attract thousands to Mallory Square and the city for a week of celebrities and sports stars sightings, live concerts, gourmet food, private parties, social events and outstanding fishing. In just nine years, the World Sailfish Championship will surpass $2 million in charitable donations and award $1 million to anglers in the prestigious competition.
Events will be based at Mallory Square, including a 100-yard long tent for exhibits and events. The Westin Key West Resort & Marina is in the heart of “old town” is the host resort, providing a spectacular setting with Sunset Pier and within walking distance of famous Duval Street.
Among the celebrities expected to attend or compete are former Miami Dolphins and Hall of Fame coach Don Shula, legendary saltwater Capt. Norm Isaacs, professional wrestler “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan, Hall of Fame catcher Johnny Bench of the Cincinnati Reds, revered fly-fisherman Stu Apte and many others.
Charities benefiting from the World Sailfish Championship include the Don Shula Foundation to support breast cancer awareness and research, the Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation, Camp Boggy Creek and the Rotary Club of Key West.
Is there a Mallory Sq concert this year ? Looking forward to fireworks on Saturday.
Loved the years you had Beatle impersonators!
Hi Nancy,
There is no big concert on the square like last year, but this year is the Fireworks extravaganza!! Looking forward to it!!!!!!