Ba-based lawyer Vikrant Chandra is banking on his experience to propel him to the final day of the Fiji Golf Open championship beginning today at the Denarau Golf and Racquet Club (DGRC) in Nadi.
The Fiji PGA president revealed that he did not had ample preparations for the three-day tournament as he was away in India, only having returned two weeks ago.
“This tournament was sorely missed and post COVID-19, we are finally seeing sponsors come in, especially GM Motors and all the other golf fanatics and supporters that are coming to reignite this event,” he said.
Chandra, who will be competing in the professional category, said the competition would be very fierce this year.
“There are a number of professionals who are members of DGRC, including myself, plus some of them that have been regular winners on our local tour, with the likes of Roneel Prakash, Zoheer Ahmed and Amitesh Chandra.
“Other members from outside are also coming to compete, however, the favourite obviously being Tomasi Tuivuna, as he is our order of merit.”
He said Anasa Seruvatu, who has been in decent form this season, was also one of the contenders for the title.
“Not taking anything away from participating players, obviously there is going to be an openness about the event.
“Any player who plays a decent round has a shot and it can be anyone’s game for the three-day competition.”
He said the overseas participants who were mostly amateurs would build on the much needed interest.
“It creates a hive of activities and a lot of support from the Fijians living overseas.
“I will back my experience and being fresh as some of the professionals have played last week at the Sheraton Golf Classic for four days straight, so I am banking on some fatigue coming on to these guys and my freshness taking me to the final day,” said Chandra.