By MOSES CHIMFWEMBE –
THE Ndola Golf course has passed the test to host the first-ever Zambia Professional Ladies Open Golf Championship that tees off tomorrow with the Pro-AM tournament.
The inspection team led by the Sunshine Tours tournament director Pauli Van Meersberger inspected the course on Monday and was satisfied with the works undertaken by the Alex Mashano-led Organising Committee.
And Zambia Ladies Golf Union (ZLGU) president Moono Mwila said the union was happy that the golf course has been declared ready to host the R750, 000 rich tournament.
“The Sunshine Tour officials inspected the golf course and other facilities at the club house and they were impressed with our preparations and so we are ready,” she said.
Meanwhile, professional and amateur golfers from the 11 participating countries have started arriving in the country.
South African rising star Monique Smit said she was eyeing to make history at the tournament that coincides with the 50th Anniversary of the ZLGU.
Smit tasted success on the recent Sunshine Ladies Tour and now hopes to shine as the first champion in the first ever professional women’s golf event in Zambia.
“I had a brilliant summer and I would really like to add the Zambia Ladies Open title to my victory list. There will be more Zambia Ladies Opens, and more champions, but there will always be only one first-time winner.
That’s why I’d like the name on the trophy to be mine,” she said.
Kim Williams, a golfer from Pretoria is seeking more success before she departs for the Ladies European Tour in April.
“I would love to win one more event, or even just add another top three finish, it would go a long way in building my confidence before I leave for the Ladies European Tour again,” said Williams.