The Surf Casting Protea Junior team chosen to represent the country in Ireland next month is asking for help to get them there.
The team has been selected to compete in the 23rd Junior U21 Federation Internationale de Peche Sportive-Mer (International Sea Sport Fishing Federation) World Championships in Wexford, Ireland, from November 2-9.
The five-person team is Reece Malga, 16, Jeariya Mudray, 15, Jeremiah Chetty, 21, coach Rishad Khan and manager Keith Mudray.
Khan and Mudray will pay for themselves, but the three anglers have to find R85 000 each to cover transport, accommodation and food.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for all of us to represent South Africa and gain the South African Protea colours, and to also make the juniors’ dreams come true,” said Khan.
The coach said they had worked very hard over the years to make the championships.
Khan said there had been much to learn to stand a chance in the competition.
“The waters in Ireland are different from the waters in South Africa or KZN and the fish species are different. So, the way you fish and the tackle you use are very different.
“To gain points and be the number one junior champions you have to learn about the type of species, how they feed and what kind of hooks to use,” he said.
Malga, from Kloof, said he was extremely happy and honoured to compete in a challenge of such magnitude.
“Fishing has always been a passion for me. I have loved it since I was very young. It is amazing to be on the beach and very peaceful to be at the shore,” said Malga.
Chetty, from Phoenix, said it was an honour and he was “extremely proud” to represent South Africa.
His two grandfathers were avid fishermen and he was inspired by them to take up the sport when he was 11.
Both said the biggest challenges they faced were the costs attached to the trip and would appreciate any donations or sponsorship.
Anyone who would like to help the team is asked to call Mudray on 083 778 3316 or email him at [email protected]