Chidale set for 1st pro tourney in Zim

Paul Chidale is set to make a debut as a professional golfer today when he tees-off in the Zimbabwe Open at Royal Harare Golf Club in Zimbabwe.

The handicapp three golfer, who revels in being one of the best golfers on the domestic scene, turned pro after being recommended by the Golf Union of Malawi (GUoM).

“I am excited at the prospect of playing my first-ever tournament as a professional, the feeling is just amazing,” said Chidale before his departure on Saturday.

He said his target is to finish within the top-20 bracket in the prestigious seven-day international tournament which has attracted 156 golfers.

“This could be a stepping stone to greater heights and I am prepared to compete with some of the best golfers on the continent.

“I have been training hard for the past couple of months and I can confidently say I am ready,” he said.

Chidale’s sponsors, Lab Enterprise, said they wish their golfer all the best.

Said the company’s managing director Noel Lipipa: “Paul is  a skilful golfer and we expect the best from him though we wouldn’t want to put him under unnecessary pressure being his first tournament.

“What makes us proud also is that he will be carrying the country’s flag.”

GUoM vice-president Hudson Kantwanje said they wish Chidale all the best as he takes the first step as a professional golfer.

“Paul is a talented young golfer who needs all the support from all sport-loving Malawians. It is our hope that he will make the cut and he should know that we are rallying behind him as he strives to make a name and raise the country’s flag high.

“This should be a stepping stone for him and we would love to see more talented local golfers such as Adam Sailesi, Victor Kachepatsonga and Patridge Shyco follow suit,” he said.

Chidale is the second Malawian professional golfer after the late Gilliam Kapito.

The Zimbabwe Open is being backrolled by Old Mutual and it is part of the Sunshine Tour. n