14 April 2022
Meet Michael Guest, Pirtek Fishing Challenge Tournament Director!
You might recognise Michael as one of Australia’s most successful rally car drivers, but despite taking his foot off the pedal, he’s still making just as many waves off the track.
Michael is the host of the Reel Action TV show, and the driver behind the annual Pirtek Fishing Challenge - the world’s largest fishing competition which attracts over 10,000 competitors each year and has raised over $1.5 million for charity since its inception in 2008.
PCFA is a major beneficiary of the competition, challenging Australians to fight a fish to help fund prostate cancer research, nurses and awareness.
This year the competition will be held on Saturday 23 April to Sunday 24 April.
Michael says the competition is a fish and release challenge, where competitors can hit the water in their home State to fish for prizes. Competitors then snap a shot of their best catch on their ‘brag mat’, which they’re sent on registration, to go in to win.
“The Pirtek Fishing Challenge came about from a frank discussion with Pirtek Founder, Peter Duncan, after the biggest accident in my rallying career. Peter thought a change of direction was in order for my own safety and that a fishing competition would provide just that,” Michael says.
“He said, “Michael you seem to like fishing, why don’t we organise a national fishing competition with proceeds going to charity?”, and that’s how it all started 14 years ago.”
As a result, the competition is helping to change the lives of 18,000 men diagnosed with prostate cancer each year.
Michael is passionate about raising awareness of prostate cancer and getting blokes talking about what’s going on below the belt - and there’s no better time to do that than waiting for the fish to bite.
“I think we need to treat the subject more openly. Us blokes are great at talking about the footy scores from the weekend but keep things pretty close to our chests when it comes to men’s health.
“I think we need to check on our mates and ask the simple questions, like when are you up for your next health check?” he says.
The success of the Pirtek Fishing Challenge is no-doubt attributable to Michael’s drive and dedication, stemming from years on the racetrack.
He says if there is one thing that he has learnt from rallying that sticks with him today, it’s to back yourself.
“Competing at the highest level in any sport takes a lot of dedication. I think the biggest thing that I took away from my rally career was to back yourself. Believe in your own ability and fight for your goals don’t let outside influences derail your dreams.”
So, if you love fishing, get involved in the Pirtek Fishing Challenge and help reel in more support for men and their families impacted by prostate cancer.
“This is all about fishos getting together to fight a fish for medical research and help raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer.
“With over $280,000 in cash and prizes up for grabs this year including $100,000 in draw prizes you can win without even going fishing, it’s set to be our biggest year yet.”
Michael’s biggest ever catch was a 600lb blue marlin - can you match that?
To get involved, visit pirtekfishingchallenge.com.au
For information about prostate cancer and support, phone 1800 22 00 99 or visit pcfa.org.au.
