Sports and Games

James Chimwaza, Lucy Ganiza shine at Minet tourney

James Chimwaza, Lucy Ganiza shine at Minet tourney

By Llywellenie Mpasa:

James Chimwaza and Lucy Ganiza stole the limelight at the Minet Malawi Senior Golfers Tournament at Limbe Country Club in Blantyre on Tuesday.

The annual event attracted 38 seasoned golfers, all showcasing exceptional skill and sportsmanship as they competed for top honours in the prestigious senior golfing contests.

In the men’s category, played in a medal format, Chimwaza, with handicap 17, demonstrated remarkable precision and consistency to secure the title with a score of 82/17/65.

He said the tournament was not only exciting but also a great form of exercise.

“It is essential for us, as seniors, to stay active and golf provides that opportunity. Golf has broader benefits including its positive impact on physical and mental well-being, particularly for older participants,” Chimwaza said.

His outstanding performance placed him ahead of Peter Matiru, who finished with an impressive 81/14/67, while Nyakhokho Nsona claimed third place after scoring 87/18/69.

In the ladies’ seniors’ category which was played on stableford format, Ganiza shone brightly to secure victory with a score of 21/12/33.

She narrowly counted out Beatrice Mangwana, who also posted a net score of 14/19/33 but lost on a tiebreaker.

“My composure under pressure helped me claim the title in what proved to be a fiercely competitive contest,” Ganiza said.

During the contest, Lassy Pinto won the longest drive on hole 16 while Ian Bonongwe showcased impressive accuracy to clinch the nearest to the pin accolade on hole 2.

Minet Malawi Insurance Brokers Limited Finance Manager Agnes Kamwiyo reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting senior golfers in promoting active lifestyles.

“As a company, we are dedicated to fostering community engagement through sports. Golf is a great way of staying active and engaged. We are therefore proud to support this initiative that brings together experienced golfers in a competitive, yet friendly, atmosphere,” Kamwiyo said.

Senior Golfers Society of Malawi captain and chairperson Eric Chimkanda was equally enthusiastic about the event’s success.

“The atmosphere here was filled with friendly competition as participants showcased talent while building friendships on the greens. The competitiveness of this tournament has been growing and the level of play continues to improve every year as more senior golfers embrace the sport,” Chimkanda said.

All podium finishers walked away with trophies and shopping vouchers.