Online Reporter
Takudzwa Chitsiga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE spotlight swings back to Royal Harare Golf Club this week, polished fairways, finely tuned greens and all, as Zimbabwe’s premier golf show-piece, the FBC Zimbabwe Open, bursts into life.
But while the storied course is more than ready to roll out the green carpet for an international field, local hearts may ache with the likely absence of Zimbabwe’s top golfing duo, Scott and Kieran Vincent, from the flagship tournament.
The two have been carrying Zimbabwe’s hopes of a home grown champion since the event’s return in 2010. Last year, during a triumphant homecoming, Scott finished an impressive third while younger brother Kieran tied for sixth alongside compatriot Ben Follet-Smith. But this time, the brothers look set to tee off halfway across the world, competing in the Asian Tour’s International Series Japan presented by Moutai, a tournament clashing directly with the FBC Zim Open.
With their eyes set on reclaiming spots on the lucrative LIV Golf Tour, the Vincent siblings are pursuing critical ranking points on the Asian Tour, where promotion opportunities are more tangible following their relegation last season.
That leaves Zimbabwean hopes resting on the shoulders of a handful of rising professionals and hungry amateurs, including six players granted amateur slots and others fighting for their place in today’s pre-qualifiers.
Despite the notable absentees, the buzz remains electric at Royal Harare, a venue steeped in prestige and tradition, now entering its 13th straight year as host.
General manager Ian Mathieson says the club is primed for another show stopper.
“We are ready and the groundsmen have been doing amazing work. We look forward to hosting all of you at our great course and are confident that you will have a great time over the week,” said Mathieson.
“The greens are running well, the fairways are looking good and challenging, and so is the short rough.
We are anticipating a good week and the best player to win.
“We have been hosting this prestigious tournament for the past 12 editions and we are promising to do the same this year.”
The main tournament tees off Wednesday, May 8 and runs until Saturday, May 11, with a purse of R2.5 million, a drawcard that continues to lure top-tier professionals even amid a congested global golf calendar.
And while Zimbabwe’s biggest guns may be missing from the tee sheet, don’t expect a quiet week at Royal Harare.
There’s still plenty of fire-power, and home pride, ready to take a swing.
