Akure: The Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), Western Zone, has made a significant appeal to its members, urging them to focus on developing U-18 golfers for future representation in continental events. This call was made by Evelyn Balogun, the Vice President of the zone, during the closing ceremony of the 10th Western Zone Open Golf Championship held in Akure.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the four-day tournament, themed ‘Golfing with the Stars,’ took place at the Crosscreek Golf Club in Ilado, featuring 130 golfers-comprised of 60 female and 70 male participants from various clubs across Nigeria. Balogun commended the golfers for their dedication as they competed despite challenging weather conditions. She emphasized that the championship was not just about victory but also about participation, early morning practices, and the friendships developed on the golf course.
Balogun extended her congratulations to all participants, highlighting that the essence of excellence lies in passion, respect, and courage, rather than merely winning trophies. She noted that the tournament celebrated perseverance, camaraderie, and the quiet strength of every woman golfer. Balogun expressed her role as one of supporting, organizing, and leading a team of resilient and enthusiastic lady golfers.
LGAN President Evelyn Oyome, represented by Joyce Nule, also congratulated the golfers, urging unity in future events. Oyome praised the lady captains and participants for their vision, leadership, and dedication to the sport. The tournament culminated with Grace Adeyinka of Ekiti Golf Club winning the Best Gross Champion title. She achieved a total gross score of 270 over three days, outperforming 45 other golfers in the ladies’ handicap 0-18 category. Adeyinka expressed her joy, stating that despite the tough course conditions, she was proud of her performance and her teammates.
Isaac Shedowo, the Captain of Crosscreek Golf Club, also commended the participants for their fair play throughout the tournament.