The Marlin Group, the world’s largest big-game fishing network, has announced key organizational changes to support continued growth across its expanding portfolio of big-game tournaments.
Following the acquisition of the Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series (HMTS), The Marlin Group is designating separate tournament directors for the Atlantic and Pacific. This geographic alignment allows for deeper regional focus and operational oversight, acknowledging the distinct business models, participant demographics, and logistical considerations unique to each market.
Lacey Hagler, Associate Tournament Director for the past four years, has been promoted to Pacific Tournament Director. She will oversee the HMTS, the Offshore World Championship in Costa Rica, and the Los Cabos Billfish Tournament in Mexico.
“Lacey has distinguished herself in service to these events since joining the team, and stepped up in 2025 to lead Bonnier’s integration of the HMTS,” said David Ritchie, Marlin Group CEO. “We have tremendous confidence in her ability to expand the group’s tournament operations across the Pacific region.”
Recruitment is underway for a new Atlantic Tournament Director to lead the Bermuda Triple Crown and the Scrub Island Billfish Series in the British Virgin Islands, with a focus on expanding existing operations and identifying new opportunities in the region. During the transition, Connor Motsko, Sales Director & Business Development lead, will serve as interim Atlantic lead. Motsko has deep-rooted sportfishing background and hands-on experience in working with top-tier tournaments.
These changes come as the organization announces the departure of Jennifer Dudas, former Tournament Director. The Marlin Group extends its sincere appreciation for her many contributions and years of service.
“This restructuring represents a thoughtful and necessary evolution in how we operate and scale our tournament business,” Ritchie said. “By aligning leadership within our key regions, we can stay laser-focused on delivering first-class events, building new opportunities for our partners, and continuing to elevate the global standard for competitive offshore fishing.”
Qualified candidates interested in applying for the Atlantic Tournament Director should apply via LinkedIn.
Key contacts:
- Press inquiries: [email protected]
- Pacific tournaments (Hawaii Marlin Tournament Series, Los Cabos Billfish Tournament or Offshore World Championship 2026): [email protected]
- Atlantic tournaments (Scrub Island Billfish Series, Bermuda Triple Crown 2026): [email protected]
