Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo
Zimpapers Sports Hub
ONE of Zimbabwe’s leading professional golfers, Kieran Vincent, has moved a step closer to realising his dream of competing on the PGA Tour after advancing to the Second Stage of the PGA Tour Qualifying School in the United States.
The 26-year-old, who left the LIV Golf circuit last year to refocus on traditional Tour competition, finished tied for 14th at the First Stage event held at Rockwall Golf and Athletic Club in Texas.
Vincent carded nine under par 279 to finish comfortably inside the top 18 who advanced to the next stage.
He began the week with a strong five under par 67, just three shots behind early leader Jacob Harper, and followed it up with a steady one under 71 in the second round. On moving day, Vincent produced another impressive round, firing a four under 68 before closing with a one over 73 to secure his progression.
With the first hurdle cleared, the gifted Zimbabwean will now line up among other PGA Tour hopefuls at one of five Second Stage venues between December 2 and 5. Those who make it through will proceed to the Final Stage at TPC Sawgrass from December 11 to 14, a potential gateway to full PGA Tour status.
Brendon de Jonge remains the last Zimbabwe born golfer to hold a full PGA Tour card.
Meanwhile, Shepard Chiwaya claimed a dramatic play off victory over Darlington Chikanyambidze to win the 2025 Harare Amateur at Wingate Golf Club over the weekend.
The two golfers were tied on one under par 215 after three rounds, forcing a sudden death play off which Chiwaya won with calm precision.
Chiwaya opened with a one over 73, then went under par with a 71 in the second round before repeating that score in the final round to grab a share of the lead.
Chikanyambidze, fresh from making his debut at the 2025 World Amateur Team Championship in Singapore, posted 76, 68 and 71. His second round 68 was the tournament’s best score.
Thomas Sinclair finished third on four over 220 after rounds of 73, 70 and 77.
Next on the Zimbabwe Golf Association calendar is the Mashonaland East Amateur at Marondera Golf Club on November 1 and 2. The Harry Allen Classic follows at Harry Allen Golf Club in Bulawayo on November 15 and 16, before the Platinum Classic at Norton Golf Club (November 29–30) wraps up an eventful 2025 season.
Mathew Masinge