Reflecting on a Successful Partnership: Pantaenius and the Sea Angling Classic
At Pantaenius UK, we were proud to sponsor the Sea Angling Classic for three incredible years, from its inaugural event in 2021 through to 2023. This unique catch, photograph, and release fishing competition brought together anglers from around the globe and provided us with an exceptional opportunity to engage with a valued sector of our client base.
Our involvement in the Sea Angling Classic allowed us to connect with passionate individuals and organisations within the angling community, forming long-lasting friendships and business relationships. The event not only celebrated the sport of angling but also emphasised sustainability and community engagement, values that resonate deeply with our own ethos at Pantaenius.
Highlights of Our Sponsorship
- Launch Event 2021: Being there at the birth of the event, a precursor to the competition proper that was to introduce a huge prize table, the likes of which had not been seen before in the UK!
- Inaugural Event 2022: The first Sea Angling Classic, held in Portsmouth, was a ground-breaking event. A grand walking flag parade and an awe-inspiring boat parade marked the start of the competition, which saw Portsmouth Harbour temporarily closed to marine traffic. Anglers competed across two divisions, with the prize table exceeding £200,000.
- Victorious Moments: We were thrilled to see the Suzuki Smartfish fishing team, sponsored by Pantaenius UK, lift the trophy for the Recreational Boat Category in 2022. The team chose to donate a portion of their winnings to a firefighter’s charity, show casing the generous spirit within the angling community.
- Community Engagement: Our commitment to community involvement was evident as we took local youths (including a 14-year-old aspiring marine biologist), supported by the Andrew Simpson Foundation, onto the water to experience fishing first-hand, demonstrating our dedication to fostering the next generation of boating enthusiasts.
- Environmental Responsibility: Sustainability was a key theme of the Sea Angling Classic. All participating anglers were required to undertake a shore-side clean-up operation, and our Pantaenius team joined in, contributing to clean-up efforts in Plymouth, Hamble, and the Isle of Wight. The event also raised awareness for the Solent Seagrass Project, underlining the importance of environmental conservation.
Our time as sponsors of the Sea Angling Classic was a period of immense pride and achievement for Pantaenius UK. While our official sponsorship has come to an end, the memories and relationships formed during these years will continue to inspire us. We look back with gratitude on the opportunities this partnership provided and look forward to continuing our support for the boat angling community in new ways.