Oyome, Irene set for Ikoyi Open final thriller

Two former champions of Ikoyi Ladies Open, Irene Nakalembe and Evelyn Oyome will be mounting every tee box of Ikoyi Club 1938 in Lagos with the hope of closing the 45th edition of the title later today in their favour.

Although Peace Kabaswehi and Alaba Adetunji have thrown in scores that could unsettle the former champions’ hope earlier in the 56 holes contest; the game may go down in the history of Ikoyi Ladies Open as the most keenly contested.

Nakalembe has two wins in Nigeria (including her recent feat at IBB International Golf and Country Club last week), her defense of the Ikoyi Ladies Open that she ran off with last year will be the biggest test of her game; and of course her continental exploit.

After opening a three-way tie that left ‘Naka’ battling with Oyome and Peace on 81 gross scores; the long-hitting trio will need to add character to their golfing skills. But while the pressure will mount for the frontliners today, one player that could upset the front row with her calmness is Caroline Majoroh, former captain of the section, who has registered some interest in winning the prized trophy with an 88, 17 over, as a veteran.

“The game is more about endurance, focus, and more importantly sportsmanship,” says the lady captain, Lola Ajibola, who is more nervy about how the event would turn out off the course than on each putting green.

She continues, “We have had a great golfing year and this our prized trophy will be gladly given to the best fighter, irrespective of the country or place they come from.

“Our event is a tradition of excellence and we want that to be what the players return to their destination with, more than the score. It is the Ikoyi Golf experience.”