adminTobias Mandoreba Hwange Correspondent
MATABELELAND North golfing sensation Stephen “Zero” Simukai clinched the Hwange Closed tournament title at the weekend. Simukai successfully defended the prize he won last year in the same competition in the “A” division. The competition was held under the medal stroke play format.
Simukai managed a gross score of 147, relegating Christian Lungu to second position with a gross score of 166.
“In the game of golf you need strategy, maintain a solid golf discipline, be self motivated and dedicated towards your practice sessions,” said a beaming Simukai on the sidelines of the prize giving ceremony.
Lungu had to prevail in a playoff against rising golfer Moses Moyo for the runners up spot.
It then turned into a family affair as Shephered Simukai clinched the “B” division category with a gross score of 176.
Coming closely behind him were Didymus Ngorora, and Emmanuel Nyasulu with gross scores of 179 and 182 respectively.
Thankyou Mwampamba ruled the roost in the “C” division with a score of 188 with Kenny Maunga coming second with a score of 191 while Matabeleland Golf Association vice president Victor Suerga was third with a gross score of 192.
In the ladies’ category Matron Mguni clinched the top prize with a score of 183 and in the process relegating last year’s winner Viola Musengi to second position with a score of 200.
The longest drive in the men’s category was won by Stephen Simukai while Selina Njamba hit the longest drive in the ladies’ section.
In a related development, Stephen looks set to be the second professional golfer to emerge from Hwange town after Phillip Tshuma who is now based in Bulawayo. “I am more than elated as I am turning pro very soon. This tournament is special as it is my last as an amateur golfer as I have since engaged the Zimbabwe Golf Association on the modalities for me to turn professional.
“Let me disclose that it is difficult to play on zero handicap for a long time like what I did but still producing good results hence I look forward to the new challenge.
“My wish is to be a resident professional golfer so that I demystify the sport of golf to all ages especially the young ones,” said the 31-year-old who also the Hwange Golf Development co-ordinator.
Online Reporter