Women golf team leaves for All-Africa Championships

NELSON DIRENG
Correspondent | Friday November 5, 2010 00:00

The last tournament was held in Egypt two years ago, with Botswana emerging 12th out of 17 countries. 'This time around we are expecting better results as we are sending a much more experienced and better prepared team,' the Botswana Ladies Golf Union (BLGU) president, Tiny Kgatlwane said.

In 2006, Botswana finished ninth when the tournament was held in Zambia. 'However, in Egypt, the tournament was tough as countries had brought  strong players,' Kgatlwane said. She stated that the Nigerian-bound team has Ouname Mhotsha, player developed from the grassroots. She said the rest of the squad is experienced and therefore they expect good results.

The four-member team consists of players with handicaps lower than seven. The purpose of the tournament is to develop women's golf in Africa. A Zimbabwean woman started the competition in 1992 with the objective of promoting the sport among women. Kgatlwane said that the AACT is a platform to expose talent.

At least 15 countries are expected to take part in this year's competition. The tournament begins with a practice session on Sunday. The main competition will be on Monday and Tuesday, followed by the Nigeria Open which starts on Wednesday and ends on November 14. The Botswana team is expected to participate in the open.

Kgatlwane said Botswana will bid to host the 2012 AACT competition. 'We have the experience and necessary infrastructure to host a tournament of this magnitude as we proved when we hosted a successful Zone VI tournament recently,' she said. Sherunj Botswana and Bifm are the women's team main sponsors.

Brief profiles of the squad members

Connie Paul - Most experienced player in the team with over 10 years in the game. She has made significant contributions to Botswana golf. She is currently based in South Africa where she continues to develop her talent.

Ouname Mhotsha - At only 15, Mhotsha is the youngest member of the team. However, this does not make her the least experienced. The youngster has been playing golf for seven years and is a success story for the BGLU's development programme. Her stamina is expected to help the team as she is likely to face opponents of her age at the tournament.

Trazina Marudu - An experienced campaigner who has won several titles locally. She has an excellent swing and a lot is expected from her at the tournament.

Team manager and reserve: Sandra Hughe