The battle for the number one ranking in Nigerian professional golf heats up at the eTranzact Classic. The prestigious tournament is billed to tee off at the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja and offers N20 million prize money.
Francis Epe, the current leader and defending champion, will need a strong performance to retain his title and ranking.
Niyi Toluwalope, Managing Director of eTranzact, expresses pride in providing a platform for young Nigerian golfers to shine. Embracing a vision of fostering healthy competition.
“These young Nigerians are full of potential. We are proud to have created this platform for them to showcase their potential,” Toluwalope said,
“This is our vision, that like the Super Fintech that we are, to always promote healthy and innovative competition that will drive the country forward.”
Several golfers are vying for Epe’s spot, including Olapade Sunday (currently ranked second), youngster Okoko Godwin, and former number one Kamalu Bako. International competition comes from Ghana’s PGA players like Bary Yaw and Augustine Manasseh.
This 54-hole challenge is part of the Professional Golf Development (PGD) Tour’s second season.
“The eTranzact event aligns perfectly with our goal of creating professional golf events and keeping Nigerian talent engaged,” said Femi Olagbenro, PDG Tour Commissioner.
“The PGD Tour has significantly boosted the dynamism of the Nigerian golf circuit.”
A total of 185 players, including professionals, amateurs, and category one golfers, will compete in the three-day tournament starting today, May 15th, and running through Friday, May 17th. A cut will be made after 36 holes, with only the top 30 professionals and club amateurs advancing to the final round.
