Nigeria's Francis Epe has sent a strong message to the international field gathering for the Sunshine Development Tour's Lakowe Lakes Golf Classic, winning the 54-hole Nigeria Closed by five shots on Wednesday. The tournament, played at the par-72 Lakowe Lakes Golf Club, marked the beginning of a major week of professional golf. Epe's victory has given him a significant boost of confidence as he prepares to compete in the international event.
Epe closed the three-day contest at two-under-par 214, following rounds of 73, 69, and 72. He expressed his satisfaction with his performance, stating that it's a great way to start an important week. Epe looks forward to carrying this winning momentum into the second event. Former Nigeria number one Oche Odoh finished runner-up on 219, three-over par, while Kamalu Bako placed among the leaders with 221, five-over.
The Nigeria Closed also showcased the talent of other home players, including Kabiru Haruna, Mike Ubi, Patrick Paul, and Tajudeen Ajayi. These players are expected to challenge the visiting field when the international leg tees off. The tournament has provided valuable experience and exposure for the local golfers, who will be competing against a strong international field.
The international event, which runs from October 2 to October 4, features over 150 professional golfers representing more than 12 African countries. The stakes are high, with a prize money of $50,000, World Golf Ranking points, and a brand-new GAC electric car on offer. The winner will take home the Tour's biggest purse yet, along with valuable world ranking points and the new car.
Sunshine Development Tour – East Africa Swing CEO, David Ndungu, expressed his satisfaction with the response from players, highlighting the growing appetite for quality professional golf events across Africa. The enthusiasm surrounding the tournament has underlined the significance of bringing the Tour to Lakowe Lakes, Nigeria.
The international field features several top players, including Nigerians Godwin Okoko and Sunday Olapade, Rwanda's Celestine Nsazuwera, Zambia's Sydney Wemba, Ghana's Vincent Togah, and Uganda's Ronald Rugumayo. These players will compete against Epe, who is looking to build on his winning momentum from the Nigeria Closed.
With the international event set to tee off on October 2, the competition is expected to be fierce. Epe's winning form on home soil has given him a strong foundation to compete against the best golfers in Africa. The Lakowe Lakes Golf Classic is making its debut on the Sunshine Development Tour calendar, and the response from players has been encouraging.
Key points
- Francis Epe wins 54-hole Nigeria Closed by five shots, gains momentum for Lakowe Lakes Golf Classic
- Over 150 professional golfers from 12 African countries to compete in the international event
- $50,000 prize money, World Golf Ranking points, and a brand-new GAC electric car up for grabs
