Tuivuna banks on youth

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Tomasi Tuivuna tees off during the golf tournament at the Vatuwaqa Golf Course in Suva on Saturday, June 21, 2025. Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU

Tomasi Tuivuna says young golfers are the future of the sport in Fiji.

The 44-year-old was one of more than 65 golfers who took part in the Stableford event at the Vatuwaqa Golf course in Suva yesterday.

The one-day tournament was sponsored by Golden Ocean.

Tuivuna, who first picked up a golf club when he was just 14, said golf runs in the family.

“My whole family are golfers. My father played, and my brothers all play too. That’s how I got into it,” he said.

He said the Stableford format is always tough, especially when using plastic tees.

“It’s not easy. The format requires consistency. But I enjoy it, especially the chance to play with the members,” he said.

Tuivuna recently won a local tournament in Denarau, which he says was his first major win this year.

“I was happy with that win. It gave me confidence going into more events,” he said.

He added that while he hasn’t played in national-level tournaments, he is looking forward to the Fiji Golf Open tournament that is expected to take place in three months’ time.

“I don’t know the exact date yet, but I’ll be preparing for it,” he said.

He also praised the efforts of young players in Fiji who are starting to play regularly.

“There are some really good young players coming through, especially from Nadi and Lautoka,” he said.

Tuivuna’s message to young golfers is clear.

“They are the future of our clubs and our national team. We need to support and guide them well,” he said.