THE 86th consective Geotech Drilling / Islands Electric-sponsored Lautpka Open Golf Championship has attracted a record field of over 130 golfers.
First played in 1931 during the Colonial Sugar Refining era, the tournament has seen many champion golfers grace the golf links.
Club official Raymond Singh confirmed the participation of national reps, top local professionals and more importantly a class field of women golfers from around the country.
“This prestigious tournament saw our very own former world number 1 Vijay Singh posting back to back wins in 1981 and 1982 before turning professional,” Singh said.
Past winners who are part of this year’s championship include Olaf Allen Jnr,VijayK.Singh, Isei Waqa, James Krishna, Prem Chand and Abid Hussien.
Stiff competition will come from Ba duo Asish Chand and Rohit Chandra alongside James Pridgeon and William Danford of Pacific Harbour, Suva Open champion Moh’d Rizwan, Ritesh Chandra and Munesh Prasad of Nadi .
The women’s category will be hotly contested by inspirational Raina Kumar, Ji Eun Lee, Ga In Ju of Denarau alongside Sulu Brooks, Ravesi Koniate, Selina Snellvrove, Laura Cunning and Ciri Taylor.
The Eastern contingent will be led by Merelita McCarthy, Kelera Watling, Sai Yee, Amy Subam,Mereani and Ufemia Naisara
More than 50 prizes will be up for grabs in the men’s & Women’s category while the professionals will battle for $4000 cash prize.
