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From: Joe Effiong, Uyo
The Ibom Golf and Country Club has disclosed plans to kick-off its maiden Ladies Golf Championship tournament at the Ibom Icon and Golf Resort, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital on Friday, March 27 to 28.
The Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Mrs Aniekan Essienette who disclosed this in a press conference in Uyo on Thursday said the tournament with the theme: ‘Bloom’ is aimed at selecting Ibom Ladies Champion and only opened to ladies handicapped 0 to 28.
Essienette explained that the tournament is expected to host over 100 participants where about 60 of them are ladies and the rest men. Essienette explained that veterans which are participants from ages 55 and above will also feature at the event.
She said aside the prizes to be won, the competition is also aimed at inspiring prospective female golfers, showcasing talents and resilience of women in male dominated sport.
“For years, golf here was seen as a gentleman’s sport, but that perception is changing. Women are stepping in, and this tournament is a strong statement of their presence and capability.” She said.
She thanked the sponsors of the tournament including Hensek Engineering Services, Central Bank of Nigeria through the office of the Deputy Governor, Corporate Affairs, IbomAir among others.
In his remarks, the Club Captain, Mr Isua Archibong, commended the ladies for the insight of forming the female section of the club recalling that 20 years after the formation of the country club, they have taken the bold step to host the maidin tournament.
“I’m so proud of these ladies. When this club was established about 20 years ago, we didn’t have upto four ladies, they were not even dedicated, now we have more women who are professionals in their endeavors and still make out time for this.
“So Saturday is going to be a testament and statement to the fact that the golfing community of Akwa Ibom has grown beyond being a male-roundtable clubhouse only.” Archibong said.
Archibong commended successive governors for their support to club and the present governor, pastor Umo Eno, for sustaining a peaceful environment that has enabled the club to thrive, as well as advancing the state’s tourism drive as a golfing destination in Nigeria.
In her remarks, the Lady Captain of the team, Maryann Cephas, announced that notable personalities from across the country are expected to grace the event including the national president of ladies golf association and the representatives of other clubs across Nigeria.
“The ladies have come together in a boom to put up this event. We will be having in our midst the president of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria, in the person of Mrs Lami Ahmed, the vice president and about four other executive members.
On her part, the Head of Sales and Marketing at the Ibom Icon Resort, Idorenyin Ekong, said the facility was committed to giving world class hospitality at the tournament expressing the hotel’s passion in supporting women.
