Lucky flanked by Hans De Beer (L) and Alex Oppong Baffoe
Achimota-based golfer, Lucky Annan Ayisah, has reaffirmed his dominance in Ghanaian golf; coming from behind on the final day to win the 11th Genser Professional Golfers Association (PGA) Championship at the Celebrity Golf Club in Sakumono.
Ayisah shook off huge challenge from 31 other regular golfers after four days of competitive golfing to clinch the championship blue jacket, trophy and the top cash prize.
The 39-year-old golfer, who first clinched the title during the pandemic-shortened 2020 edition, delivered a masterclass in resilience and skill to claim victory with a four-round total of 277 strokes, finishing seven under par. Ayisah’s stellar performance on the final day saw him card a second 68 of the tournament, completing rounds of 68, 72, 69, and 68 to secure a comfortable five-stroke victory.
“Facing top golfers from across Africa, including West African number one Vincent Torgah, Francis Epe from Nigeria, and other seasoned players, pushed me to bring my best game,” he said.
The championship featured a strong field from nine African countries, underscoring the tournament’s growth and prestige.
Three golfers—Yaw Barry, Vincent Torgah, and Augustine Manasseh—tied for second place, finishing at two under par with scores of 282 and sharing the cash prizes for the second to fourth place.
Francis Epe of Nigeria secured fifth place with a score of 286, while veteran Emos Korblah, competing in the Seniors’ category, claimed the top prize of GH¢15,000 and another trophy to add to his illustrious career.
Senegalese golfer Oumy Dieye stood tall in the Ladies’ category, winning with a cash prize of GH¢15,000, a hamper, and a trophy.
The tournament saw several surprises, including 2023 champion Sunday Olapade and runner-up Kojo Barni finishing outside the top ten, in 11th and 12th places respectively.
The high level of competition reflected the improvements made to the tournament, which attracted seasoned professionals from Zimbabwe, Zambia, Uganda, Senegal, and Côte d’Ivoire.
Director of Operations of the PGA Ghana, Ahmed Padori, commended the players for their discipline and competitive spirit, while calling for continued efforts to elevate the sport.
Ahmed Padori was impressed with the competition, and congratulated the players from other countries, playing for the first time.
He announced that next year, which is the 12th edition, will be climaxed with their 50th anniversary (Golden Jubilee).
Hans De Beer, Chairman of the Planning Committee, described the tournament as very successful and hoped that the 50th anniversary of the PGA next year will be special.
Other sponsors were Ripkon Ghana Ltd, Haybel Company Ltd, AECI Mining Explosives, Kissart Ltd, Prixin Company Ltd and the Professional Golfers Association (PGA).
From The Sport Desk