51�鱨վ

By Kenya Godette

The 51�鱨վ Alumni Association (51�鱨վAA) will host its sixth annual Monarch Cobia Classic fishing tournament July 11-13 in Virginia Beach.

The event, which began in 2017, is an opportunity for anglers from around the region to fish for a cause, with proceeds benefitting the 51�鱨վAA Scholarship Fund. Since its inception, scholarships have been awarded to more than 400 students.

This year’s classic will consist of two days of fishing beginning at 6 a.m. — the first day beginning with a Captains’ meeting — and will conclude with a dock party on July 13. Weigh stations will be in Virginia Beach and the Peninsula, and the dock party will be held at the . Dock party tickets are available for $50 for guests not registered in the tournament.

Prizes, including cash, reels, outdoor equipment and gift cards, will be presented to the top five fishing teams. Each team may consist of up to four anglers. An “early bird” rate of $400 per team is available until June 30 and increases to $450 on July 1.

Sponsorship opportunities are also available with levels ranging from $250-$10,000. Individual contributions of any amount are also accepted, with all funds going towards scholarships.

“We want the community to know this tournament is open to anglers and friends from across the region,” said Kimberly Johnson, director of alumni relations for the Office of Alumni Relations. “It’s a great opportunity to participate in one of the largest fishing tournaments on the east coast, have fun and support local college students. Last year we welcomed 63 teams and 17 sponsors. We hope to attract even more participants and supporters this year.”

The Cobia Classic is one of three signature fundraising events held annually by the 51�鱨վAA, which include the annual golf tournament that was held on April 25 and the Alumni Honors Dinner, scheduled for October of this year.  

For more information about the 51�鱨վ Cobia Classic and how to register or apply to be a sponsor, visit the .