The third eTranzact Golf Classic, a Professional Golfers’ Development Tour event held at the Lakowe Lakes Golf Club in Lagos, Nigeria, concluded with Togolese professional Ayao Mawouli claiming the coveted title. Mawouli’s impressive performance saw him dethrone the previous champion, Francis Epe, who missed the halfway cut. Over two rounds, Mawouli shot a level par 72 followed by a remarkable four-under-par 68, totaling 140 and establishing a commanding lead over the field of 88 players. The tournament was unfortunately shortened to 36 holes due to persistent rainfall, making the course unplayable for the final round. This decision, based on established golfing rules, was announced by the Professional Golf Development Tour Commissioner, Femi Olagbenro, allowing for the official prize presentation to proceed.
Mawouli’s victory earned him not only the prestigious title but also a substantial N10.2 million winner’s cheque. Kamalu Bako, a former top-ranked Nigerian player, secured the runner-up position and received N6 million. The competition showcased talent from across Africa, with Ivorian golfer Kouakou Richard-Kouame finishing in third place. A three-way tie for fourth place further highlighted the competitive nature of the tournament, with Ibrahim Ocheje, Oche Odoh, and Jean-Romaric Kouassi all sharing the honors. The ladies’ competition saw Rukayat Mustapha of Ikoyi Club 1938 and Blessing Abdul of St Mark Golf Club, Otukpo, tied at +14 over 158, sharing the top honors and the associated prize money. The tournament’s truncated format due to inclement weather did not diminish the excitement and competitive spirit displayed by the participating golfers.
The eTranzact Golf Classic, sponsored by the leading fintech company eTranzact, highlighted their commitment to youth and sports development across Africa. Niyi Toluwalope, Managing Director of eTranzact, expressed pride in the event’s growing international appeal, evidenced by the diverse representation of countries among the participants. He emphasized the company’s ongoing commitment to leveraging the platform provided by the eTranzact Golf Classic to empower and support African youth. The tournament served as a testament to eTranzact’s dedication to promoting sports and talent development on the continent. Toluwalope also reiterated the necessity of adhering to the official rules of golf, which dictated the shortening of the tournament due to the inclement weather. He emphasized the shared understanding between eTranzact and the Professional Golf Development Tour in prioritizing player safety and adherence to established regulations.
The success of the third eTranzact Golf Classic underscored the growing prominence of professional golf in Africa, showcasing both established and emerging talent. The tournament’s international draw attracted players from across the continent, fostering camaraderie and competition on a prestigious platform. Ayao Mawouli’s dominant performance signaled his arrival as a force to be reckoned with in African golf, while the strong showing of other players highlighted the depth of talent within the region. Despite the unforeseen weather challenges, the event remained a resounding success, thanks to the efficient organization and the unwavering commitment of the sponsors and organizers.
The eTranzact Golf Classic has firmly established itself as a prominent fixture on the African golfing calendar, attracting a diverse array of talented players. Beyond the competition itself, the event serves as a vehicle for promoting the sport and fostering its development throughout the continent. The involvement of a leading fintech company like eTranzact underscores the growing recognition of the potential of sports sponsorship to positively impact communities and empower young athletes. The tournament’s focus on professional development also contributes to raising the overall standard of golf in the region.
Looking ahead, the eTranzact Golf Classic is poised to continue its growth trajectory, attracting even more international participation and solidifying its position as a premier golfing event. The tournament’s dedication to nurturing African talent and promoting the sport bodes well for the future of golf on the continent. The success of the third edition, despite the challenges posed by the weather, serves as a testament to the resilience and commitment of the organizers and sponsors. The eTranzact Golf Classic is not merely a sporting competition; it is a platform for development, showcasing the potential of African golfers on a global stage.
The partnership between eTranzact and the Professional Golf Development Tour has proven to be a fruitful one, contributing significantly to the advancement of professional golf in Africa. By providing a platform for aspiring and established golfers to showcase their skills, the tournament fosters a competitive environment that drives continuous improvement. The eTranzact Golf Classic stands as a beacon of hope for the future of African golf, demonstrating the transformative power of sports in empowering individuals and communities. The tournament’s commitment to adhering to international standards and promoting fair play further enhances its credibility and appeal.
