By Segun Giwa
No fewer than 130 golfers have arrived in Akure, Ondo, for the 10th Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN) Western Zone Golf Championship.
The four-day tournament, holding at the Crosscreek Golf Club, Ilado, features 60 female and 70 male golfers from across the country.
Vice President of LGAN Western Zone, Mrs Evelyn Balogun, told newsmen in Akure on Thursday that the tournament aimed to encourage more women to play golf.
Balogun said the competition, themed ‘Golfing with the Stars’, was also designed to promote physical and mental wellness among women.
She noted that golf helps women improve fitness, relieve stress, and enjoy nature, adding that women should not be confined to household roles.
“Ladies from handicap 0 to 28 will tee off on Friday, followed by a cultural and social interaction in the evening,” she said.
According to her, day two of the tournament continues on Saturday, ending with a disco night for relaxation and networking.
Balogun said 45 ladies were expected to make the cut and play in Sunday’s final alongside male players from handicap 0 to 28.
She said the event would end with an award and appreciation ceremony to honour winners, sponsors, and supporters of the tournament.
Balogun commended the Ondo Government for its support, expressing optimism that more women would take up the sport in future.
Also speaking, First Vice President of LGAN, Dr Lami Ahmed, said it was the first time a ladies’ open golf event was held in Ondo.
Ahmed praised the zonal leadership of LGAN for making the competition a reality, noting that it fosters unity and women’s development.
She said the championship would boost the state’s economy and promote tourism, biodiversity, and environmental awareness in the host community.
“Golf brings value and unites communities. It also enhances site preservation and promotes tourism wherever it is played,” Ahmed added.
The founder of Crosscreek Golf Club, Mr Sola Abidakun, expressed delight at hosting the tournament and welcomed all participants.
Abidakun urged the golfers to explore the state and enjoy the hospitality of the club and host community.
Club Captain, Mr Isaac Shedowo, said the event was expected to inject over 200 million naira into the local economy.
Meanwhile, NAN reports that the Crosscreek ladies (handicap 29–36) opened the tournament on Thursday morning.
Other activities included a visit to an orphanage, ceremonial tee-off, flag hoisting, and a cocktail event to round off Thursday’s activities. (NAN)
Edited by Tosin Kolade
