Hara, Karuku win Optichem Fertilisers Golf
Sangwani Hara and Connie Karuku were all smiles on Saturday when they triumphed in the Optichem Fertilisers Golf Tournament in men and ladies’ categories, respectively, at Mulanje Golf Club (MGC).
A birdie on the eighth hole plus a couple of pars were enough for Hara to reach the desired 42 points and win his first major trophy which attracted a 72-strongfield that included his runner-up Tony Chiwaya (41 points) and third-placed Rajeev Rawat Singh (40 points).
An excellent start to the annual competition that saw Hara amassing 20 points within the first eight holes put the handicap-18 golfer in the comfort zone.
“This was a great day for me as I have won my first major trophy in the country. The course played well and I enjoyed my round of golf,” said the handicap-18 golfer, who collected a total of 22 points on the front nine and 20 on the back.
Nevertheless, it was Karuku who deserved an epic celebration on the day as the handicap-16 golfer won the five-contestant ladies’ crown for the third consecutive time. She had 34 points, five ahead of her runner-up Bose Kamphulusa.
“It feels great to defend the title for the second time. However, I must admit that I did not play well today; my golf was not on point, but I still found my way to success because my opponents did not play better than me,” said Karuku, who birdied on 10th and 13th holes.
John Magombo won the seniors category with 34 points while at least 11 golfers found solace in hitting two clubs. Symon Hart hit nearest to the pin.
Optichem Fertilisers general manager Bobby Singh said they have been sponsoring the event for the last three years to interact with both existing and prospective clients.
“We are humbled to see that the field was full. Such a large turnout of golfers creates a better forum for us to interact and talk business while enjoying the sport. We will be back next year,” he said. n
