By: Sunny Canto
A professional golf player Francis Epe has retained the title as he emerged the winner of the second edition of the e-Tranzact GOLF Classic roundup held at the IBB International Golf Club in Abuja.
The 3-day tourney saw 186 golfers played Fifty-Four holes, both in the Professional and Amateur golf, inclusive of Men, Ladies categories did competed fiercely and fairly.
At the end of the tourney, Mr. Niyi Toluwalope, e-Tranzact MD who elated over the success of the competition, described it as a launch pad for talents.
“We’re proud to be creating this platform, because there’s so much potentials in this country; Nigerians are blessed.
“The future is very bright, of course we’re here to support positive program were people can learn, exchange ideas, discipline and grow through sporting skills, talents; urging Team Nigeria traveling for Paris 24 Olympics games to for medals and laurels” he said.
The overall and professional winner Francis Epe, a member of Ikoyi golf club expressed delight, revealing his intentions to travel to Florida to improve his golf career.
“I’m planning on improving my golf career as a professional by traveling to Florida, USA for PGA tour because I began (1991) in Mokola, Ibadan then join Amateur category (2007) in Ikeja, Lagos and professional (2011); thanks to my Chairman for supporting me this far” he told.
Also, Dame (Mrs.) Donli Julie OON, the (IBB International Golf Club) Ladies Captain who emerged 2nd position said: “I was playing to enjoy myself, but excited and elated finishing as Runner-Up, because I registered late and my eyes wasn’t on the prize.
“We’re thrilled for such a wonderful golf event, also meeting the partners though we’ve Ladies range, Grassroot programs; I’m encouraging people to start from somewhere.
Barrister Owoicho Emmanuel, the Amateur winner said golf teaches resilient, discipline and humility.
“It’s a misconception that only elite play this game, it’s play across the world by different categories” he affirm,” he said
Earlier, speaking during his closing remarks, (IBB International Golf Club) Chairman, Ibrahim Bayero gave kudos to all the golfers, spectator and sponsors for creating the opportunities for the sport to thrive.
“We like to thank all the participants, spectators and sponsors for this enabling opportunity; and our facilities doors are open to them to use, also glad to have stage this amazing tournament,” he said.
Gracing the colorful and eventful finals are professionals from all works of life; however if talented and skillful individuals are properly enhance and foster, the sky will be our stepping point.