Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE fairways were buzzing, the greens alive with anticipation, and the stakes sky high, that was the scene at Harry Allen Golf Club on Saturday as it hosted its leg of the 2025 Sterling Group International Pairs, the world’s biggest amateur golf tournament.
Played in the four ball better ball format, the qualifier drew a spirited field of nearly 30 golfers. And despite uneven pairings, Melusi Nkomo, Edson Muguyo, and Albert Shoko each carded an impressive 47 points, sealing their place at the national finals.
Club captain Jabulani Tshuma was thrilled with both the turnout and the atmosphere.
“We had a decent field of 28 players who came through to participate in this qualifier. It was a four ball better ball competition which was very exciting, and we are very happy with the turnout from our members. It created a lot of excitement. The sponsors, Sterling, also came to support the event.”
“Unfortunately, there are only two pairs that qualify for the next stage. They scored a massive 47 points, it was a successful competition hosted by the club,” Tshuma added.
Sterling Group of Hotels general manager Fungai Mutseyekwa applauded the professionalism and energy surrounding the event.
“We are delighted to take part in this competition. Well done to Harry Allen for organising such a well run event. You are taking people to the world stage, and we hope those who qualified today go all the way to Sun City. Thank you for allowing us to be part of this journey,” he said.
The 2025 edition of the tournament launched under the theme:
“Tee off for travel, discover the beauty of Zimbabwe.”
This campaign builds on the momentum of 2024, where the goal was to harness the power of golf to drive Zimbabwe’s sports tourism industry and attract international visibility.
Open to players of all genders and ages, the International Pairs continues to celebrate the amateur golfer, the backbone of the sport, representing over 95 percent of Zimbabwe’s golfing population.
Backed by increased corporate support, the 2025 edition is shaping up to be the most lucrative. That backing is also aligned with the goals of the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) and Sterling Group, who see the tournament as a key driver of destination marketing and development.
The National Finals will take place at the scenic Mutola Hills Golf Course in Mhondoro-Ngezi this September, while the International Finals return to the iconic Sun City Golf Course in South Africa, a venue steeped in prestige and once host to the famed Million Dollar Challenge, which was won by Zimbabwean golf legend Nick Price.
As the road to Sun City heats up, all eyes will be on defending national champions Litchel Mandiveyi and Nothando Namuinesu, who will be looking to hold onto their crown. — @brandon_malvin
