Smith Wins PGA Botswana Tournament
Calistus Kolantsho | Monday March 16, 2015 13:48
Smith walked away with the title after collecting 71 points.
The tournament was the first of a series of three for the year sponsored by Gaborone Sun. The one-day tournament attracted professional and amateur golfers.
The next tournaments, under Gaborone Sun sponsorship, will be held in June, September and December. Chairperson of PGA Botswana, Steve Smith said the inaugural tournament was held last year and that the response was positive.
After winning the tournament, Stuart told Sport Monitor that after failing to qualify for Tshwane Open in Pretoria South Africa, he decided to enter for the Botswana tournament .
The South African based golfer, however, explained that his priority was to play in South Africa and that he decided to play in the local tournament to give support to locals and provide some stiff competition.
He stated that his main priority is to play in South Africa.
“I know most of the players here and their style of play. Playing here is different from playing in South Africa. It was great that two South Africans participated in the tournament. I have three big tournaments that I should qualify for this year and I have improved my rankings,” said Stuart.
He explained that he needs to play as many tournaments as possible before June in order to improve his position and qualify for the Sunshine Tour in South Africa. He noted that qualifying for a European vents is never easy. Stuart said if local players are to do well in the sport, they should play a lot more tournaments.
He said golf can come as a natural talent but in most instances it has to be taught. Stuart said it is all about how one approaches the sport.
Botswana Golf Union (BGU) secretary general, Mpho Kelosiwang said they expected Stuart to win and thought he would win with a better score. He is a top golfer in the country and most people look up to him. He mentioned that the player is also a motivation to other youngsters.
He stated that most people think amateur golfers are the best in the country, but that is not true but professional golfers are the best.
He pointed out that youngsters could make a living out of golf. Kelosiwang said they want to see golfers playing in the 2020 Olympic games and that can be through becoming professionals.
Meanwhile, Gaborone club will host the Individual Stableford competition next Saturday.