Francis Epe, Sunday Olapade, and Kamilu Bako are poised to lead Nigeria’s charge for success at the 54-hole second eTranzact Golf Classic, commencing today at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja.
Epe, currently Nigeria’s top-ranked player, defends his title as the reigning champion of the eTranzact Classic, aiming to secure a portion of the N20 million prize pool. Olapade, ranked second in Nigeria, enters the tournament following a commendable fourth-place finish at the Cameroon Open last weekend.
Joining them are former Nigerian number one Kamalu Bako, rising star Okoko Godwin, Kabiru H. Mohammaed, Marcus Elisha, and George Inalegwu, among others. They face stiff competition from Ghana, represented by Bary Yaw, Augustine Manasseh, and Kofi Owusu.
The eTranzact Golf Classic operates under the umbrella of the Professional Golf Development (PGD) Tour, now in its second season. Niyi Toluwalope, Managing Director of eTranzact, expressed optimism that the tournament would serve as a platform for local professionals to excel.
With a strong field of 185 professionals, category 1 players, and club amateurs, the event promises three days of exciting shot-making displays in Abuja. Femi Olagbenro, Commissioner of the PDG Tour, highlighted the significance of the eTranzact event in supporting local golf talent and fostering engagement.
The eTranzact Classic features a midway cut after 36 holes, advancing the top 30 professionals and club amateurs to the classification round on Friday, May 17, 2024.