Top golfers upbeat as major tourney looms

Dar es Salaam. Golf fever is mounting high among golfers and fans ahead of this year’s Lugalo Open Championship, which tees off on June 23.

As the 36-hole tournament looms, Lugalo Club golfers have come out with guns blazing as they hone their skills ahead of the event.

The two-day championship, one of the major golf competitions in the country, will feature top players from around the country.

Speaking to The Citizen during a training session at the club’s course yesterday, the golfers promised to leave their mark in the event.

Fast-rising female golfer Amanda Mlula, who claimed the title in the ladies’ category during the Moshi Open recently, is among the players the army club banks on for top honours in the much-anticipated event.

“The course is looking great, although one has to be really careful where you put your shot. It’s all about managing your shots here,” Mlula said.

Other club players, who performed impressively in the Moshi Open include Gerlad Gadiel, John Hiza and Richard Mtweve.

Gadiel and Hiza claimed top honours in the Division A and C respectively, while Mtweve clinched the title in the senior category.

Joyce Warega, also a member of the Lugalo Club, said she was in great shape, raring to put up a spirited fight in the eagerly-awaited tournament.

“We expect to see a highly competitive tournament this year. The presence of elite players like Hawa Wanyeche, Ayne Magombe and Vicky Elias, will spice up the event,” she said.

“I am among the players groomed by the club (Lugalo) and surely, I will fight to ensure I win a title in the tournament,” she said.

Mtweve, who also features for the national golf team, says Lugalo Club golfers have what it takes to dominate this year’s championship.

The Lugalo golf club captain, Japhet Masai, said preparations for the tournament were on course.

“Organising the tournament this year has been in a challenge for us, but with the support of Tanapa, who are our main sponsors, I believe we will host a good event,” he said.

The sponsors have set aside prizes for both gross and net winners in divisions A, B, C, as well as ladies and juniors categories, according to Masai.

In another development, Arusha Gymkhana Club’s top female golfer Madina Idd, has predicted a tough tournament.