80 players set for golf championship showdown

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Eddie Yuen putts at the 10th hole at the Fiji Golf Club greens in Suva. Picture: ELIKI NUKUTABU

The Fiji Teams Championship will take place this Saturday at the Fiji Golf Club in Suva.

Teams from Labasa, Nadi, Ba, Lautoka, Natadola/Denarau, and Pacific Harbour will compete, with over 80 players expected.

Host and defending champions Fiji Golf Club are favourites, but they will face tough competition from other clubs.

Golf Fiji is fully supporting all clubs by covering their participation costs, including free entry and lunch for all players. This initiative aims to encourage more participation and strengthen the sport across the country.

Golf Fiji treasurer James Krishna said the return of Labasa Golf Club after five years is a great sign that golf is growing in Fiji. He added that Golf Fiji remains committed to supporting clubs and ensuring the championship continues to thrive.

Lautoka Golf Club will be led by Krishna himself, while Denarau/Natadola will have Shakil Pillay guiding their campaign. Ba Golf Club will rely on experienced golfers Rohit Chandra and Asish Chand to challenge for the top prize.

Fiji Golf Club will enter the tournament as defending A Grade champion and will aim to retain their title.

Denarau/Natadola Combined will look to defend their B Grade title, while Lautoka Golf Club will attempt to maintain their dominance in the C Grade division. Ba Golf Club will enter as defending champions in the Junior and Women’s Division.

“Last year, Golf Fiji revived the Fiji Teams Championship in May, with Lautoka hosting the event and 72 players taking part. Golf Fiji fully funded the competition, demonstrating its commitment to growing the sport.

“This year’s championship is proudly sponsored by Naviti Resort, Paradise Lighting, and Tappoo Group. With the nation’s top golfers competing and club pride on the line, Saturday’s event promises to be a thrilling showdown,” Krishna said.