Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo at Royal Harare Golf Club
A GOLFING revolution rocked the Royal Harare fairways on Sunday as Mexican sensation Luis Carrera shattered a 24-year-old jinx to become the first non-South African to lift the FBC Zimbabwe Open since the turn of the millennium.
With nerves of steel and a swing laced with flair, Carrera carded a sizzling final round 68 to finish on an eye-popping 18-under-par 270 — four shots clear of Aussie chaser Austin Bautista.
It was more than just a win — it was a statement. The Sunshine Tour rookie, fresh off a victory at Qualifying School in April, announced himself with authority, emulating Jean Hugo’s legendary 1999 debut triumph.
Carrera’s charge began with a thunderous eagle on the par-five 3rd, sending shockwaves across the leaderboard. Despite a few hiccups — bogeys on 9 and 11 — he birdied his way to glory on 14, 16 and the iconic 18th, sealing history with swagger.
South Africans, who have owned this tournament like family heirloom since 2001, were left watching in disbelief. The last local hero, Mark McNulty, won in 2000. Since then, it’s been a rainbow nation lockout — until Carrera came blazing through.
“It’s unreal,” said Carrera, clutching the silverware. “I knew I had to be sharp today, and I’m proud of how I played under pressure.”
As for defending champion Michael Hollick? Nowhere in sight — the South African bombed out on Friday, failing to make the cut. It marked 27 years since a player last defended the Zimbabwe Open, with only Nick Price managing the feat in 1997 and 1998.
Zimbabwean hope Robson Chinhoi gave fans something to cheer, finishing tied seventh on six-under-par 282 — the best local showing.
But the weekend belonged to Carrera — the Mexican Matador who slayed the Southern kings and carved his name into the Royal Harare history books.
Golf will never be the same again.
