Business for Good: One Individual’s Love for Belize Leads Local Philanthropy
Del Martin (R) and Cisco Woods (L) at Old Belize.
“Belize? Where exactly is Belize even?” It's the knee-jerk reaction Del Martin had more than 17 years ago when he was first introduced to our small Central American nation by the Caribbean Sea. “A friend of mine [from Texas] was heading to Belize with computers and asked if I’d be interested in joining him. I met a larger-than-life persona, earnestly introduced to me only as Rasta, and the rest was history.” Visiting nearly once a quarter every year since, we jest that he’s now an honorary Belizean despite his Texan accent being an obvious giveaway.
Sharing a spirit 16 years & counting
Del Martin may not be a name you recognize, but the now-local philanthropist has quietly offered pivotal support to community efforts, sporting events, and more ever since—including our upcoming 14th Annual Belikin Blue Water Classic. Once again in 2023, we are proud to announce Del Martin as a Premium Sponsor of the Belize Game Fish Association!
“I do go fishing and enjoy it, but I’m not necessarily a fisherman. It’s not my favorite, but I can always admire every angler’s patience in anticipation of that zipping reel, though!” More so an admirer of the nation’s environment, culture, and inherent spirit, Belize is important to Martin. Almost as important as helping others.
Amber Marie shows off their catch from the 13th Annual Belikin Blue Water Classic.
A Houston native, Martin is deeply involved in business ventures as diverse as Belize’s natural locales (think anywhere from car dealerships to medical equipment), and has devoted at least as much time and energy to charitable work and civic involvement. At BGFA, we believe that social innovation lies at the heart of solving many of society’s biggest problems, and that spirit of entrepreneurship is shared between Del Martin, too. That within a community, whether built or inherited, is a crucial source of social connection and a sense of belonging. With some frequency, Martin has privately helped scores of individuals seeking the same. Bonding by attitudes, values, and goals is an essential ingredient to enjoying a fulfilling life—and we’re grateful to do our part with the support of sponsors, including individuals like Del Martin, through cultivating a sportfishing community.
“I love the culture,” said Martin, who now resides mostly in Belize once his work schedule allows. “Belize is an important community to support that I consider a second home. I’m just glad to come together again for the [14th Annual Belikin Blue Water Classic] tournament later this month. I just love Belize and her people. This is the least I can do.” And so is the impact we’re able to achieve together.
Martin’s impact on the local community in Belize cannot be calculated precisely, especially since we promised to keep coy about the extent of supporting local families, Christmas cheer, sporting teams, and more—almost 16 years, and counting.
Join the BGFA sportfishing community this October
Recreational, commercial, and sport fishing brings myriad economic benefits to communities throughout Belize, but it also brings the joy of community. Whether you love fishing or have never experienced the excitement of hooking your first fish, all are welcome to our 14th Annual Belikin Blue Water Classic on October 20-21, 2023 in Belize City at Old Belize, which serves as the tournament’s base during the 2-day event. Join us inside the Old Belize Food Market at 6 PM on Thursday, October 19, on fishing days where anglers return starting at 3 PM, or at the prize-giving ceremony that’ll be held at 6 PM on Saturday, October 21.
The first day of the event will feature the bulk of the attractions, including pop-up vendors of local artists like Ernest Garcia, Victoria Bedran, and more. However, both dates will feature catch-of-the-day photo ops by incoming anglers. Admission and parking are free on both days at Old Belize, though admission to Kukumba Beach—a view that never grows old for Del whenever he’s able to venture out the Cucumber Beach Marina by catamaran—is $15 per adult.
