HG Christie once again proudly supported the annual Elbow Reef Classic as a Silver Sponsor of the 4th edition of the growing tournament, which continues to unite the Bahamian and international fishing communities in support of one of the country’s most treasured landmarks, the historic Elbow Reef Lighthouse.
Held in Hope Town, Abaco in late May, the tournament brought together anglers, families, and supporters for several days of competition, camaraderie, and fundraising, all centered around preserving the iconic 1863 lighthouse, the last manually operated lighthouse of its kind in the world.
This year’s event marked the largest tournament since its inception, with 20 boats registered and 70 anglers participating. Anglers recorded an impressive 49 billfish releases, a significant increase from the 16 releases recorded during the 2025 event. The tournament also generated a total prize purse of $85,725, with top overall billfish team “Mo Betta” taking home the top prize payout of $25,050.
For HG Christie, the event is far more than sport fishing. With strong ties to the Abaco community through its Marsh Harbour and Hope Town offices, as well as agents living on Green Turtle Cay, Winding Bay and Guana Cay, the company continues to support initiatives that preserve Bahamian culture, heritage, and the unique character of the islands.
President and Managing Broker of HG Christie, John Christie, said the company is proud to continue its involvement with the event and the important mission behind it.
“The Elbow Reef Lighthouse is one of the most recognizable and meaningful landmarks in The Bahamas, and we are proud to continue supporting the Elbow Reef Classic and the incredible work being done to preserve it,” Christie said.
“Events like this bring people together around something truly special. They celebrate community, heritage, and the enduring traditions that make the Out Islands so unique. HG Christie is honoured to play a role in helping ensure this important piece of Bahamian history continues to stand for generations to come.”
Laura Gallagher, President of the Elbow Reef Foundation, reflected on the continued growth and impact of the tournament. “I’m so proud to be a part of the 4th annual Elbow Reef Classic, bringing the Bahamian community and our US friends together to support our iconic and historic lighthouse,” Gallagher said. “It’s a beautiful blend of sport, camaraderie, and heritage preservation.”
Funds raised through the event directly support restoration and maintenance efforts for the lighthouse, including long-term repairs still needed following Hurricane Dorian. Mari Chambers of the Elbow Reef Foundation explained that preserving the historic structure requires constant attention due to its exposed marine environment.
“We have some repairs and items from Hurricane Dorian that still need to be addressed, as well as general maintenance which is a constant requirement due to the environmental conditions and salt spray,” Chambers said. “This summer we plan to use the funds to begin the repair work to the kerosene tanks, which is the fuel system for the light.”
The tournament featured multiple divisions and awards recognizing both seasoned competitors and younger anglers participating in the tradition. Among the highlights were local team “Joint Venture II” earning recognition for the Heaviest Wahoo, while team “Blurred Lines” landed an impressive 97.6-pound Yellowfin Tuna during Day 3 competition. Additional honours included Top Billfish Angler Overall awarded to Ron Ladner aboard “Cheeseburger,” Top Billfish Lady Angler Ellie King aboard “Still Foolish,” and Top Billfish Junior Angler Justin Gilchrist aboard “Psalm 23.” Junior angler Breck Lamberton also earned recognition for Top Meatfish Junior Angler.
The Elbow Reef Classic continues to grow not only as a competitive tournament but as a meaningful community initiative rooted in preservation and shared appreciation for Bahamian maritime heritage.
“For generations, the Elbow Reef Lighthouse has stood as a steadfast guardian over our waters,” said Heather Ford-Prosa, ERF Founder and HG Christie Estate Agent. “It asks little in return—only that we show up for it, just as it has always stood for us. That spirit is what the Elbow Reef Classic embodies.”
