Team Malawi eyes top 2 finish as Region 5 Golf tees off
The Malawi golf team is targeting a top two finish at the 2023 Region 5 Golf Challenge which tees off this morning at the Lilongwe Golf Club.
Malawi is one of seven countries competing in the tournament. The others are South Africa, Mozambique, Namibia, e-Swatini, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
After the flag raising ceremony yesterday, the tournament starts today with the round one strokeplay ranking for 18 holes followed by foursomes and singles for 36 holes in the second round.
In an interview yesterday, Team Malawi captain Rodrick Folindo said they are upbeat of a top-two finish.
He said: “Based on our preparations, coupled with home-course advantage, we believe we deserve to be among the top two.
“The only team that could stand in our way is South Africa, but with good composure and focus, we can win the tournament.”
On his part, Malawi coach Chris Kachiguma said they cannot wait to get started.
He said: “As hosts, we are excited and determined. It’s a course we are familiar with and the players are in good shape mentally and physically.
“We are looking forward to competing and giving our best.”
Malawi had a bad experience last year finishing 12th in the same tournament which was held in Angola. In 2021, Malawi finished sixth in Mauritius.
The best Malawi has ever attained in this tournament was second position about six years ago, according to Kachiguma.
Golf Union of Malawi president Gift Chidya Gondwe is equally optimistic that this time around fortunes might favour the hosts.
“We have a good team and also good technical staff in Chris Kachiguma and Khumbo Mkandawire. We also involved senior golfers who have been offering advice to the players as a way of motivation,” he said.
He also thanked the Africa Golf Confederation for choosing Malawi to host the tournament and the support they render towards the development of the sport.
Gondwe also thanked government and Royal and Ancient for their support towards the tournament.
Speaking during the flag raising ceremony, Minister of Youth and Sports Uchizi Mkandawire said as a country, Malawi has been a beehive of different sporting activities with the climax being the successful hosting of the 2022 African Union Sports Council Region 5 Youth Games in December last year.
“This talks a lot about our push for sports development and excellence in Malawi and Africa as a whole,” he said.
The minister also thanked GUoM for the good organisation.
Said the Mkandawire: “I must applaud your efforts, Mr. president of Golf Union of Malawi for imparting golf lessons to the youth from less-privileged backgrounds and these rise up to be victors and heroes of a nation.
“ Our appreciation also to regulators of the game Royal and Ancient for a beautiful set-up.”
