Bataung Moeketsi
PREPARATIONS for the 16th edition of Nedbank Mohokare Golf Classic are at an advanced stage; the organisers have said.
The tournament is set to take place on 18 and 19 October 2019 at Maseru and Ladybrand (South Africa) Golf clubs respectively.
Member of the organising committee, ‘Mapalesa Lemeke, told the Lesotho Times yesterday that they were at the final stages of the preparations.
She said the players have registered while the committee was now working on the tee-off times.
Last year’s tournament saw former government secretary, Motlatsi Ramafole, beating a field of 160 golfers.
“The overall winner was Motlatsi Ramafoloe while in the woman’s category it was Malehloa Lekhooa and both will also participate in the tournament this year,” Lemeke said.
She said 170 local and regional players have so far confirmed their attendance. Lemeke also added that they are also expecting golfers from South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe.
“Apart from local golfers, we are expecting others from South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe. We also encourage the golfers to be punctual.”
Nedbank are the main sponsors of the event. They have partnered with the Matekane Group of Companies, Metropolitan, Alliance, Thaba-Bosiu Risk Solutions, Letšeng Diamonds, Minet Lesotho, Econet Lesotho, Bee-Pee Printers, Nashua, Brand Fusion Lesotho and Golf Resort.
“Minet Lesotho and Brand Fusion Lesotho are new additions to the list of sponsors.
“The sponsorship received is meant for the arrangements, golf shirts and caps for players, catering for players and caddies and prizes for the winners,” Lemeke said.
The tournament will be end with a prize giving gala dinner at Avani Lesotho on Saturday night.
Lemeke said they are expecting Sports minister Mahali Phamotse to officiate at the event.
“Normally, His Majesty King Letsie III is part of the event but unfortunately, he will be travelling, so he will be represented by Prince Seeiso,” she said.
Lemeke said they are hoping that this year’s tournament will fortify the friendship that they have built with foreign golfers over the past years.
