2004 Results and Recap

The Kickoff Luau was a huge hit. Everyone was dressed to impress as the 3rd annual Grove SLAM! was underway. In between all the drinking and partying there seemed to be some “weather” chatter. Although the tournament was 2 days away, people were talking about the 20+ knot winds in South Florida. Although these winds (out of the east) are great for fishing, the fleet was still concerned. With an unclear forecast for Saturday tournament director Tony Albelo took the stage and made a remarkable offer. “We believe that the winds will subside by Saturday. We are not postponing nor canceling the tournament. But we are concerned for everyone’s safety. If you feel as if the weather will be too rough for you, your crew, or your boat, please let us know. We will offer a full refund to anyone wishing to not fish the tournament.” This is the first time anywhere that a tournament has offered refunds. The offer was accepted by only 5 teams which decided to take half of the money back in order to keep their tournament gear and come to the parties. This is a testament to the great teams that fish the SLAM!

The day started like every other Grove SLAM! with a Bimini Start (shotgun start). Needless to say this is one of the most exciting events in any tournament. Over a hundred boats lined up and let-em rip once time was called. After a day of rough seas and average fishing, one team rose above the rest. Team Hotfish came up with the most ponds of dolphin and won the 3rd ever Grove SLAM!

The post party and Miss Hotfish Bikini Contest set the bar again for dock parties. The open Bacardi and Budweiser bars plus food from Hard Rock helped keep everyone entertained during the bikini contest. If you missed it, you missed the most talked-about event in fishing. Don’t miss the tournament of the year, the Grove SLAM!