Women’s golfer Sunita Kumar is set to face a challenging round as she competes today in the Fiji PGA Gecko’s Trucking President’s Cup at the Denarau Golf Club. As the vice-principal of Ratu Navula College, Kumar aims to conclude the year on a high note, stating, “I will do my best and finish off strongly this year.”
In a unique twist, Kumar will be competing against her daughter, Riana Kumar, who is the reigning champion of the Denarau Golf Open. Sunita expressed her respect for her daughter’s skills, admitting, “My daughter is the best, and I know the challenge from her.”
The tournament kicked off yesterday with professionals playing 36 holes, while women and amateur divisions are scheduled for 18 holes today. Fiji Golf president Amitesh Chandra highlighted the event’s importance and the competitive spirit it nurtures. The professionals are vying for a $10,000 prize pool, with the winner set to receive $1,800.
Tomasi Tuivuna, leading the Fiji PGA Order of Merit and the defending champion, is a favorite but will face formidable competition from Roneel Prakash and Vikrant Chandra, ranked second and third respectively. Last week’s Denarau Pro-Am winner, Abid Hussein, is also seen as a strong competitor.
In the women’s division, Riana Kumar is favored to win due to her status as the lowest-handicapped player in Fiji. Meanwhile, the men’s amateur division is without Shakil Pillay, who is currently in Japan preparing for the NEC Master of Amateurs Golf Championship in Melbourne set for January 2025. Top contenders in this category include Nitulesh Mali, Praveer Chand, and Ashish Chand.
With around 100 players participating, the tournament promises an exciting day of golf at Denarau, showcasing skill and determination on the course.
This event not only highlights the competitive spirit of the players but also emphasizes the growing participation and talent in golf within Fiji, encouraging future generations to pursue the sport.
Leave a comment