Peter Fithian accepts the proclamation from Mayor Billy Kenoi. They are joined by Miss Billfish 2009 Andria DeBina. (Photo courtesy of HIBT)

Karin Stanton/Hawaii247.com Contributing Editor

A surprise visit by Mayor Billy Kenoi at Tuesday afternoon’s weigh-in on Kailua pier created a stir. Kenoi recognized Peter Fithian’s 50 years of commitment to the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament and proclaimed July 19-25 as Peter Fithian Week. 

“We need to celebrate this great tournament and the fame it has brought the Kona Coast,” Kenoi said. “This iconic event is an economic driver for our county and attracts visitors from around the world to our beautiful island. For that we are grateful to Peter and the HIBT.”  

Fithian was honored and surprised by the mayoral proclamation. 

“I am so very pleased that Mayor Kenoi has come here today. This tournament would not be possible without the support of the County of Hawaii. I want to say that I am honored to know that the County of Hawaii recognizes this grand tournament as an asset to the Kona community and its world-class fishing fleet.” 

Fithian joked that he would take full advantage of the honor.

“So I’m OK for a week around this town,” he said. “Tell the cops.”

The tournament is something of a Fithian family event. Wife Bobi, son Chip and daughter Marsha are working on Kailua Pier this week.

“What an honor for him. He’s worked so hard over the years. He really deserves this,” Chip said. “I’m a Kona boy and my love of fishing just came naturally. I love this tournament.”

The Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament is celebrating its 50th golden anniversary this year.

Once again, the world meets in Kona as anglers gather from around the world to fish these famous waters including Australia, Bermuda, British Isles, Japan, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, South Africa, Tahiti and representing teams from around the U.S. including California, Florida, Hawaii and North Carolina.   

The Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament is underwritten by the generosity of the County of Hawaii and sponsored in part by Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Hawaii, Oceanic Time Warner, KWXX Radio and numerous corporate and community donors. 

— Find out more:

Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament: www.hibtfishing.com

 

From left: Mayor Billy Kenoi, Miss Billfish 2009 Andria DeBina, Peter Fithian, Bobi Fithian, Marsha Fithian and Chip Fithian. (Hawaii247.com photo by Karin Stanton)

 

(Hawaii247.com photo by Karin Stanton)