A taste of Nigeria: Ikoyi Club 1938 Ladies hosts prestigious golf tournament

The 49th Ikoyi Club 1938 Ladies’ Open Golf Tournament will celebrate Africa’s thriving golf talent and Nigeria’s rich culture. The prestigious event, sanctioned by the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, is scheduled to take place in Lagos from November 13 to 15, 2024.

With over 120 amateur lady golfers, 17 professional lady golfers, and 100 male golfers, the tournament will unfold under the theme “A Taste of Nigeria.” Alongside the athletic display, the event promises an immersion into Nigerian culture through food, fashion, and entertainment.

Lady Captain of Ikoyi Club 1938, Fatumata Coker, highlighted the tournament’s unique cultural aspect, stating, “This event is not just a golf tournament; it’s an immersive cultural experience. We’re promoting golf, tourism, and Nigeria’s positive image.”

Coker further emphasised that, beyond competition, the tournament aims to foster inclusivity and charity. The lady professionals will showcase their skills across the first two days, while Nigerian music, traditional attire, and cuisine will provide international participants with a taste of Nigeria’s heritage.

The tournament will feature players with handicaps 0-28 competing in a stroke-play format, while those with handicaps 29-36 will play in Stableford to ensure smooth gameplay.

Co-Chairman Mrs Nkoli Moka described the tournament’s broader theme, “Global Harmony Through Recreation,” underscoring the recreational, therapeutic, and social value of golf. “Golf is not just about rolling balls on the ground—it covers so much more. It’s a lifestyle and very therapeutic, walking around nature and appreciating what it offers,” Moka said.

Competition Secretary Pat Ozoemene added that the event aims to elevate Nigeria’s standing in the golfing world.

“Ikoyi Club has always set high standards, and with various categories this year, we’re aiming to bring out the best.”

The tournament will award winners with prestigious prizes, including a business class ticket to the USA from Delta Airlines, a trip to Marrakech, and a stay at Lakowe Golf and Country Estate. Supporting the local golf community, the event will provide training and scholarships for caddies, while the 17 Nigerian lady professionals will vie for a round-trip ticket to the USA.

Previous champions include Irene Nakalembe, Gloria Mbaguta, and Evelyn Oyome. The event’s festivities kick off with a cocktail event on November 12, showcasing Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage through exhibitions of fabrics, crafts, and art from various regions each day.