New Owner Committed to Continuing Community Support!
This year’s BK Big Fish Tournament is poised to be the biggest yet! Mark Anthony, the new owner of Burger King and Popeyes, has promised more prize money than ever before, teasing a HUGE “Mystery” cash prize! Last year’s tournament saw a record turnout of boats and anglers, and preparations are well underway for an even larger turnout this year. Bigger, better, and full of the free swag Cayman has come to love!
During a recent conversation with Mark, it quickly became evident that the new owner is focused on maintaining the terrific community work that Burger King has been known for under the ownership of Angel and Gary Rutty. “I don’t plan on changing any of the community work that Burger King is known for; it is an important part of our relationship with the community”, Mark confirmed, passionately.
Mark’s love for the Cayman Islands was ignited while holidaying in Grand Cayman 22 years ago. Mark is a reserved and thoughtful guy but quickly opens up when discussing Cayman. “I love being part of the community, and I love giving back. The Island and the people have been so welcoming. It was a big deal to take over such an important business, and I’m honored to continue the community work of the Rutty family.” Mark moved to Cayman from Toronto in 2009, having previously lived in many cities across the world. Still, he feels that “…nothing can compare to The Cayman Islands. That’s why I call it home!”
The BK Big Fish Tournament has grown into one of the latest events that the Cayman Islands Angling Club sanctions. CIAC President Franklin Thompson told fishcaymanislands.com, “The Cayman Islands Anglers Club has been part of the BK Big Fish since its inception. We are proud to play a role in both planning and execution. We help keep the playing field level by following IGFA rules and with the 12-mile fishing restriction from each island. The Cayman Islands Anglers Club runs a Kids Fishing Clinic on Saturday and Sunday in the conjunction with the IGFA. The clinic brings in a new generation of anglers that will protect the marine environment and grow the sport in the Cayman Islands. The partnership between BK and the Cayman Islands Anglers Club plays strength to strength.”
As in past years, the proceeds from the tournament benefit The YMCA of the Cayman Islands. According to Eric Ellsworth, YMCA of the Cayman Islands CEO, “The YMCA of the Cayman Islands is so excited to be chosen as the charity of choice for the BK Big Fish Tournament. We are thankful to new BK owner Mark Anthony for providing funds for the YMCA to serve the youth of the Cayman Islands. Thanks to BK Big Fish the YMCA offers life enhancing programs like Afterschool Enrichment, Teen Leadership, Swim safety, Little League and so much more.”
The Cayman Islands 2022 BK Big Fish Tournament
