By Victor Okoye
Adebowale Oyelahan, Murtala Saleh, Lady Captain Nnenna Ahube and Abigael Ikuifisile emerged the standout performers at Captain Michael Chidi (MC) Ukaegbu’s Inaugural Golf and 50th Birthday Tournament held at the Bonny Island Golf Club (BIGC), Rivers State.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the two-day tournament, which held on June 12 and June 13 in honour of the newly inaugurated BIGC Captain and to celebrate his golden jubilee, attracted more than 120 golfers comprising club members and guests from across the country.
Participants competed in various categories in a keenly contested championship played on the lush and scenic BIGC golf course.
Oyelahan clinched the Men Division One title after returning a net score of 70 to edge Wilson Sapele on countback.
Murtala Saleh finished the Best Gross Men Division and 3rd position with 71Net.
Speaking after his victory, Oyelahan expressed delight at emerging overall winner of the landmark tournament.
“It is a special feeling to win a tournament organised to celebrate Captain MC Ukaegbu’s milestone birthday and inauguration as captain of the club,” he said.
Oyelahan attributed his success to discipline, preparation, and consistency throughout the round.
“The course was challenging, but I remained focused on every shot and stayed committed to my game plan. I am honoured to emerge the overall winner,” he said.
He commended the organisers for staging a successful championship and creating a memorable experience for participants.
“The tournament was well organised and highly competitive. Credit goes to the captain, sponsors, and committee members for a fantastic event,” Oyelahan said.
He urged golfers to continue promoting friendship, sportsmanship, and excellence through the game.
In Men Division Two, Oludare Oyegbami won with 73 nett, ahead of Temitayo Ogunjoju with 75 nett and Sonny Fombo with 77 nett.
Past BIGC Lady Captain, Lady Nnenna Ahube, dominated the Ladies Division One category with 66 nett ahead of Kafayat Bamimore and Lucy Eyo.
Ahube also emerged the Ladies Overall Best Gross winner after returning an impressive score of 84 gross.
Speaking after receiving her award, Ahube expressed delight at her achievement.
“I am delighted to emerge the Overall Best Gross winner among the ladies. It is always gratifying when hard work and dedication to the game yield positive results,” she said.
Ahube described the tournament as one of the most successful events organised by the club in recent times.
“Captain MC is a man of the people, as you could see from the remarkable turnout.
“The attendance reflected the goodwill and respect he enjoys within and outside the club,” she said.
According to her, the event brought golfers together in the spirit of friendship, healthy competition, and celebration.
“The organisation was excellent, the atmosphere was friendly and the course was in great condition. It was truly a memorable event for everyone who participated,” Ahube added.
Fortune LongJohn won the Ladies Division Two category with 33 nett, while Bessie Obei and the newly inaugurated BIGC Lady Captain, Marytina Osuchukwu, placed second and third, respectively.
Stephen Oniavi emerged winner of the Guest Men category with 74 nett, while Abigail Ikufisile topped the Guest Ladies division with 65 nett.
Technical prize winners included John Tobi Olorundare for Nearest the Pin and Isua Archibong for Straightest Drive in the Men’s category.
Lucy Eyo won the Ladies Straightest Drive prize, while Eric Tay-Brown and Chinyelu Komori claimed the Longest Drive awards.
Speaking on the success of the tournament, Lady Captain Osuchukwu commended Ukaegbu for providing purposeful leadership for the club.
“The tournament was a huge success and a fitting celebration of our captain’s inauguration and 50th birthday.
“The turnout, organisation, and level of participation clearly demonstrated the unity and strength of our club,” she said.
Osuchukwu pledged the support of the ladies’ section towards the growth of golf at BIGC.
“We will continue to work closely with the captain and the executive committee to promote golf, encourage more female participation, and strengthen the bond among members,” she said.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Captain Ukaegbu expressed gratitude to members, guests, sponsors, and the organising committee for ensuring the success of the event.
“I am overwhelmed by the support, goodwill, and love shown to me by members, friends, and guests who travelled from different parts of the country to celebrate with us,” he said.
The captain thanked the club’s executive committee, tournament committee, and volunteers for their dedication and hard work.
“This successful event was made possible by collective effort. I sincerely appreciate everyone who contributed in one way or another to make the tournament memorable,” he said.
Ukaegbu also acknowledged the support of sponsors and stakeholders for their contributions.
“I remain grateful to our sponsors and partners whose generosity added value to this championship and enhanced the experience for participants,” he said.
He pledged to continue working towards the development of the club and the promotion of golf in Bonny Island and beyond.
“My administration will focus on unity, inclusiveness and the growth of the game.
Together, we will take BIGC to greater heights,” Ukaegbu said.
NAN reports that Lady Judith Finsky Ukaegbu, wife of Captain Michael Ukaegbu, sponsored all the accompanying gifts presented to winners at the tournament.
She also provided “talakawa” gifts and support packages distributed during the celebration, adding colour and excitement to the event.
Participants commended the gesture, describing it as a thoughtful contribution to the success of the captain’s inaugural tournament and 50th birthday celebration. (NAN)