*As Ighodaro, Igbinadolor win top prizes

By Solomon Nwoke

Dr. Emmanuel Ighodaro and Ehis Igbinadolor emerged as top winners at the Stephen Ebaretonbofa 50th Birthday Pro/Am Invitational Golf Tournament, which ended at the weekend in spectacular fashion, celebrating the golden jubilee of the renowned golfer and Captain of the Benin Golf Club Section (BCGS).
The week-long tournament, packaged by the Organising Committee headed by Kingsley Okunbor, brought together over 250 golfers, including professionals and amateurs, who showcased exceptional skills and sportsmanship at the BCGS golf course in Benin City, Edo State.

“We are thrilled to celebrate our Captain, Engr. Stephen Ebaretonbofa’s 50th birthday in such grand style. The tournament was a resounding success, highlighting the growth of golf in BCGS and Nigeria, as well as the camaraderie among players,” Okunbor said.

In the men’s handicap 0–12 category, Dr. Emmanuel Ighodaro (handicap 11) won with a net score of 70. Jude Igbinadolor (handicap 12) placed second with a net score of 73, while Felix Utaji (handicap 11) finished third with 74 net. Osazee Iyare won the Best Gross prize with a score of 80.

In the ladies’ handicap 0–28 category, Ehis Igbinadolor (handicap 6) clinched the top prize with a net score of 74. Former Lady Captains, Nkeiruka Awiaka (17) and Deborah Otabor (14), placed second and third respectively. Mrs. Maryann Shaibu won the Best Gross award with 94, edging former Lady Golfers Association of Nigeria (LGAN) Southern Vice President, Sandra Emina, on countback.

In other categories, the men’s handicap 13–18 saw Gordon Imadiyi (handicap 17) emerge winner with 76 net; Ehi Akpata Esq. (18) placed second with 78 net, while former Captain, Dr. Charles Ajayi (16), finished third with 79 net. Osayi Eghosa (28) won the handicap 19–28 category ahead of Hon. John Yakubu (24) and Reuben Mgbodi Esq. (26).

Tinyan Otuomagie (34) won the ladies’ handicap 29–36 category with a net score of 71, while Queen Aigbokhaode (32) and Paula Oghumah (31) placed second and third respectively. Omosefe Osaghae (31) won the ladies’ veteran prize ahead of Oseluese Dawodu (27).

In the professionals’ category, Godwin Okoko played a total gross score of 141 over two days to emerge winner. Francis Epe finished second with 144 gross, while Collins Odile and Sunday Olopade tied for third place with 149 gross. Donatus Isuku, with 158 gross, won the Senior Tour category, while Victor Enaigbe placed second with 163 gross.

The tournament also featured a gala dinner where Ebaretonbofa was celebrated by friends, family, and fellow golfers. The evening was filled with laughter, music, and vibrant festivities.