Over 500 players are expected to feature in the various categories of the Indian Cup 2025, which tees off today at the Golf Section of Ikoyi Club 1938.

The competition is a weeklong celebration of golf, friendship, and community spirit, which, according to chairman of the organising committee, Keshab Vaswani, has a rich lineup of activities designed to reflect the event’s heritage of inclusivity and excellence.

“We are thrilled by the enthusiasm this year,” Vaswani said. “The number of players and partners coming on board shows that the Indian Cup continues to be one of the most anticipated events on the Ikoyi Club calendar. It’s not just about competition — it’s about connection, celebration, and community.”

The tournament will open today with caddies and professional golfers taking to the course in the opening rounds. Winners from this segment will go home with cash prizes and food items, as part of the organisers’ appreciation for the vital role caddies and professionals play in the game.

This year’s event is supported by Inbev, African Steel Industries, Zenith Bank, 7Up Bottling Company and CFAO Motors among others.

Tomorrow, attention will shift to 80 lady golfers, who are expected to participate in what has traditionally been one of the most colorful and competitive segments of the event.

Following the ladies’ rounds, the tournament will continue with daily play leading to the Sponsors’ Guests and Veterans Day on Friday, when long-time players, sponsors, and invited guests will take their turn on the course in an atmosphere of camaraderie and relaxation.

The grand finale is scheduled for Saturday, when the main competition will climax in an 18-hole stroke play challenge to determine the overall champions.

Winners in both gross and net categories will be celebrated at a presentation dinner and award night that same evening at the Golf Section, complete with Indian-inspired cuisine, entertainment, and cultural flair.

Adding an extra layer of excitement to this year’s tournament, participants will also be vying for a Hole-in-One prize — a brand-new Grand Vitara SUV, generously donated by CFAO Motors. The stunning reward underscores the scale and prestige of the Indian Cup and promises to raise the competitive spirit among players throughout the event.

Vaswani noted that the Indian Golfers Foundation, which stages the event yearly, remains committed to fostering strong ties between the Indian community and their Nigerian counterparts through sport and shared values.

“For us, the India Cup is more than a tournament. It’s a bridge between communities — a place where friendship and competition blend beautifully. The atmosphere, hospitality, and the sense of unity are what keep the event growing every year,” he added.