Takudzwa Chitsiga
Sports Reporter
TANAKA Chatora was crowned the 2024 Dugmore Trophy champion at Bulawayo Golf Club after he managed to beat a field of 56 players at the weekend.
The 17-year-old Heritage School student won the event, which marked the beginning of the 2024 golfing season, with a two-under-par overall score.
Chatora was outstanding in the three rounds where he saw off the challenge of Keegan Shutt.
Yolanda Mubaiwa came third and was the best female golfer at the tournament.
ZGA administrator Tirivashe Nheweyembwa said they are looking forward to more women golfers taking part in this year’s national tournaments.
“Going forward we continue to implore more ladies to participate in the national tournaments so that they stand a chance to be on the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR)
“The tournament went on well and we had a good turnout and as the opening event we look forward to continue improving.
“The course was in perfect condition and we are grateful to the greenkeepers and everyone who is making efforts to see the club in this perfect condition,” said Nheweyembwa.
Chatora, the Royal Harare-based top amateur golfer, managed rounds of 71, 78 and 70 for a total 219 to win the opening tournament of the Zimbabwe Golf Association calendar.
“I am happy to have won this tournament and I am grateful to everyone who has supported me in this journey.
“I am looking forward to continuing with this development and continue to represent the country before I turn professional.
“The field was competitive but I managed to do well,” said Chatora.
Shutt was eight shots behind on six-over with Kelvin Muchenje also in the mix.
Last year’s runner-up Matthew Williams of Bulawayo Golf Club used his course knowledge to remain in contention as he finished fifth with rounds of 74, 80 and 75 for a total 229.
Leon Mushonga, Garrick Duff, Barry Painting, Courage Muchenje and Elton Zulu completed the top 10.