THE city of Enugu is agog as numerous golfers from different clubs in Nigeria assemble for the 2017 Enugu Captain’s Inaugural Tournament holding at the Enugu Golf Course on Saturday.

•2nd from Left, Cliff Shiridzinodya, Deputy General Manager, Southern Sun Ikoyi and other golfers on the field of play at the 6th annual Southern Sun Ikoyi 2017 Golf Tournament.

Indeed, it will be a day that ardent golfers will test their skills at the uniquely different golf course which holds great delight for players and which also embraces modernity with open arms as it conserves the traces of antiquity.

Chuks Ugwoke, the captain of Enugu Golf Section is upbeat about the tournament. “All of us here (Enugu) are eagerly waiting to receive our friends from other clubs who shall be here for the event,” he said. “We will do everything within our capacity to make sure that our guests have lasting positive memories of their participation.

“Luckily, we have a Local Organising Committee that is doing so much to ensure that we host a worthwhile tournament. Beyond that, the  Executive Committee and I have continued to receive tremendous support from our members and friends, and for which we’re eternally grateful.”

Indeed, the chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Maj-Gen. Alphonsus Chukwu (rtd) has been working so tirelessly with his other members to bring about a credible event. “Enugu has a reputation of being hospitable and nice to our visitors and with God on our side,” he says, “we shall not fail. I want to pledge our commitment to provide the environment that golfers always love.

I have influential men in this LOC which comprises Dr. Eric Okunna as the vice, Engr. Ofodile Okafor, Hon. Charles Asogwa, Arc. Dr. Frank Iloeje, Surv. John Emenike, Mr. Austin Onah, Brig-Gen. OW Ali, Dr. Kene Madu and the club manager, Mr. Patrick Anero.

“We’re not leaving any stone unturned in our desire to make sure that our guests feel at home and enjoy themselves while in Enugu. That’s what golf is all about – making friends, having healthy contests for honours and enjoying yourself. Therefore, I’m not afraid to promise those coming to the Coal City that they will enjoy themselves.”

The complexity and serenity of the expansive 18-hole Course make it a compelling destination for diehard players notwithstanding its other features that leave golfers with humbling experiences.

Chief  Sam Anyamele (Onwa) and Chief Okey Nnaedozie are leading the “killer squad” from Abuja. As Nnaedozie boasted, “we’re coming in full force and we’re going to prove why we’re the number one golf course in Nigeria.”

Chief Ejadons Esege, a former captain of Calabar club is as optimistic too. “Some of us know the Enugu course like our palms. We’re coming there to decimate every opposition. Just make sure that you (Enugu) have good prizes.”

Rt. Hon. Dan Mayuku, a reputed golf player and promoter, is expected to lead the contingent from the Ibori Golf and Country Club, Asaba whereas Engr. Godwin Nwankwo, the captain of Abakaliki golf club says that “Enugu, as you know, is our sister club and our members are coming in great numbers.” From Ikoyi Golf Club, Hon. Chijioke Agu is a player to beat.

Engr. Charles Ogbo Asogwa and Surv. John Emenike, two former captains in Enugu insist that “golf is a practical game. We play it with our hands, not our mouths. Let them come and we will prove to them that this is our course.”

With an array of talents in its fold, the host club brims with talents that are determined to dominate the field. “The moment is here,” says Engr. Ofodile Okafor, Enugu’s vice captain. “There’s no hiding place for anybody. So, let’s do battle.”