Maru conquers in Indebank Golf tourney

Raffique Maru was a model of modesty when he triumphed in Indebank Golf Tournament at Blantyre Sports Club on Friday when he attributed his success to an ounce of luck.

Malawi Ladies Golf Union head Carol Banda came tops in the ladies category with 38 points.

The financial institution organised the tournament as part of its 40th anniversary celebrations.

Playing off 11 handicap, Maru had a brilliant score of 40 points to cap up a perfect afternoon.

“I think there was divine intervention and I was very relaxed, otherwise my performance was not fantastic.

“Even when I hit a bad shot, I was able to score points. I think it was just sheer luck on my part,” said Maru who got assorted prizes and a trophy.

Maru also said he was excited to win a tournament after over eight years.

His outstanding performance was on hole number 11 on which he scored a par five.

Maru’s runner-up was Sam Mwale who had a brilliant score of 37 points while Francis Frederick was third on 36 points.

Nick Araujo and Nester Msowoya were fourth and fifth respectively.

Doreen Mwenitete was the runner-up in the ladies category whereas Diana Kambale came third.

The ladies’ champion , Banda,  hailed her playing partners in particular Justice John Katsala. On a rather lighter moment, Banda said: “I thank Justice Katsala for making sure that I did not alter my results.”

In subsidiary prizes, Justice Ken Manda was nearest to the pin on hole number 14 while Golden Sibande had the longest drive—and he drove it real hard.

Best front went to J.B Suzi with 20 points while best back nine was Frank Mvalo also with similar points.

Indebank chief executive officer William Chatsala said a field of 107 golfers on a Friday was no joke.

“We really appreciate your coming to celebrate with us,” said Chatsala.

The bank’s head of corporate banking, Welkam Phiri, thanked the golfers for joining the institution in celebrating 40 years of existence.

“In 2002 we converted as a commercial bank after 30 years of existence. And over the years we have managed to set up 14 branches and agencies.

“When you turn 40 you become wiser. So, let us all have fun,” said Phiri.

BSC golf captain Donbell Mandala thanked Indebank for coming back to sponsor golf in a bigger way.

The bank did it to a turn and gave K500 000 to the club towards the maintenance of the greens, a development that is unprecedented.