Malawi’s top-ranked professional golfer Paul Chidale has qualified for the prestigious Magical Kenya Open scheduled for Muthaiga Golf Club in Niarobi from February 20 to 23.
According to Europetour.com, He secured his spot by delivering an impressive second-round score of 71 during qualifiers on Monday, becoming one of the only three professionals out of 13 particiapnts to advance.
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In an interview, Chidale attributed the achievement to the unrelenting support of his lead sponsor NBS Bank plc.
“Over the years, NBS Bank plc has consistently backed my participation in various regional tournaments, providing essential financial assistance for travel and upkeep which has been a big motivation. I am deeply appreciative of the caring Bank” he said.
Chidale became the first Malawian to play on the DP World Tour three years ago.
On Monday, he put up a vintage show, making two birdies and a single bogey in his second 18 holes to record the only under par round of the day and take the second qualifying spot at six over.
“I am so excited to qualify for this year’s Kenya Open. This will be the second time to play in this tournament,” said Chidale.
“It’s been a stressful week, but finally we made it the hard way. It means a lot to me being a DP World Tour event. We have work ahead of us, but we are going for it.”
The others who qualified were Uganda’s Willy Deus and Nigerian Sunday Olopade.
NBS Bank plc head of marketing Stella Hara said she was elated with Chidale’s achievement, saying they have provided extra resources to the golfer to go all the way and win the tournament.
She said: “At NBS Bank, we believe in championing Malawian talent and enabling them to shine on international platforms. Paul’s journey to the Kenya Open is proof that with the right support, our athletes can compete at the highest levels.
“We are proud to stand behind him as he makes history for Malawi.”
NBS Bank’s commitment to nurturing local talent extends beyond golf. Recently, the Bank unveiled a K1 billion sponsorship for National Division Football League, demonstrating its dedication to the development of sports in Malawi.
According to the organisers of the Magical Open, $2.5 million (about K4.4 billion) will be up for grabs with the winner assured of $425 000 (about K744.2 million).
