The ‘War Offshore’, otherwise known as the 21st Annual Ocean/Viking Showdown, culminated last weekend with Team Viking taking the top honors and bragging rights for the year. According to Viking’s team captain, Pat Healey, “this is a one of a kind event that is always a lot of fun and let’s John Leek and I spend some quality time with our owners. Of course we all take the fishing seriously, but in the end, it’s a great way to get together and enjoy the social aspect of our sport as well.”
 

Viking led the standings at the end of day 1 with 3419 points that included 14 white marlin releases, 1 blue marlin release and 29 tuna. This gave them the bragging advantage going into the Lay Day pool party. As John Leek IV and Pat grilled filets for everyone, the discussion of strategies for the next day’s fishing could be overheard at the poolside pina colada bar.
 

When day 2 of competition rolled around, the weather was better than forecasted which made for an enjoyable day offshore. The fishing turned out to be excellent for this time of year which worked in favor of the Viking team and put them over the top for the win.

That evening at the Awards Party, Tournament Director Bob Glover presented the coveted, Perpetual Showdown Trophy to runner up John Leek III to ceremoniously present to winning team leader Pat Healey. “We got it back this year like we said we would and we will again be proudly displaying it at our factory in New Gretna, NJ, for all to see! 

Congratulations to all the winners (the ladies did outstanding!) and a sincere Thank You to all who participated and helped to make this year’s event another memorable affair!