GOLF Fiji has closed what it describes as one of its most successful seasons, highlighted by international breakthroughs, stronger junior numbers and increased support for local clubs.
President Amitesh Chandra said 2025 delivered several significant achievements, including six world ranking events the highest number ever staged in a single year.
A major milestone came when 21-year-old Raina Kumar became the first female golfer from Fiji to earn a world ranking. Fellow national representative Shakeel Pillay also made rapid progress, improving from around 4000th in January to near the 1000 mark this week.
“This year has been a very successful one for Golf Fiji.
“Our elite squad development has been strong, and on the junior side we now have more than 50 active players across the country.”
He said Novotel has been the biggest driver of junior participation this season, supported by one of Fiji’s PGA professionals who has been instrumental in delivering development programmes.
Funding boosts clubs, sponsorship a hurdle
Golf Fiji allocated around $20,000 to affiliated clubs Ba, Nadi, Pacific Harbour, Novotel, Lautoka and Denarau to assist with development at all levels. A similar allocation is planned for 2026.
But Chandra admitted attracting sponsors remains a major challenge.
“Golf is a minority sport in Fiji, and many stakeholders still don’t understand how the game is played.
“We do have a number of sponsors, but most of them are golfers themselves. If the leadership in a company doesn’t play golf, they are often reluctant to support it.”
Golf Fiji will begin its 2026 schedule with a national junior event at Novotel on January 10, followed by the Fiji Amateur Championship in March. The season’s biggest event, the Fiji Open, will again be held during the Fiji Day weekend at Fiji Golf Club.
Chandra said the biggest lesson from 2025 is that while Golf Fiji can create programmes, provide coaches and supply opportunities, participation ultimately depends on individuals.
