Pro golfers body organises relief tourney in Blantyrenumber
The Professional Golfers Association of Malawi (PGAM) has organised a special relief tournament from May 8 to 10 at Blantyre Sports Club.
A statement signed by one of the organisers, Dingaan Chirwa, who is also a PGAM director, states that the tournament has been organised to raise funds for professional golfers, who rely on the sport for a living and to keep them active.
Reads the statement: “As you might be aware, the coronavirus pandemic has caused serious economic devastation the world over.
“This devastation has not spared professional golf in our country. Our 12 professional golfers predominantly rely on playing golf and golf coaching to earn a living.
“It has, therefore, come to the PGAM’s attention that the professional golfers are neither participating in any tournaments nor are they holding adequate golf clinics to sustain their livelihood.”
In an interview yesterday, Chirwa said all the 12 professional golfers will take part in the event .He said: “PGAM has six pros in the Centre and an equal
number from the South. We have since formed two teams [Team Centre and Team South] and they will play the match-play format [Ryder Cup style].
“In order for this to take place, we need to raise a minimum of K1.5 million. From that amount, the PGAM will cover accommodation and transport costs for the visiting team and foot meals and refreshments bills.
“The balance will be split into 60 percent for the winner and 40 percent for the other team.”
He said PGAM is, therefore, appealing for financial donations, accommodation or meals towards the cause.
“All financial donations in form of cheques must be written in the name of Professional Golfers Association in Malawi. Electronic transfers must be channelled towards our official account at National Bank of Malawi whose number is 1004665119.
“PGAM will appreciate and acknowledge financial donations even from as low as K5 000. For transparency, a list of all donors in whatever form will be published,” Chirwa said.
PGAM vice-president Patridge Shycal has since hailed Chirwa for the initiative, describing it as timely.
“I am appealing to well-wishers to support the cause for our professional golfers,” he said.
One of the country’s professional golfers Paul Chidale said apart from the financial aspect, the tournament will help them keep in shape.
“We need to be active so that when golf resumes, we should be in good form,” he said.Shycal and Chirwa have set the ball rolling by contributing K40 000 and K20 000, respectively
