FORMER South Pacific Games gold medallist Jalen Raman will be out to stake his claim on the Fiji Amateur Foursomes Championship which will be played at the Lautoka Golf Club this Sunday.
Raman, who resides in Canada, is in the country on a holiday. The 43-year-old was among the top golfers during his prime, winning multiple Nadi, Ba, Lautoka and Vatukoula Open Championship titles. He is also a former Fiji Amateur Championship winner.
National Golf Association of Fiji secretary Amitesh Chandra said Srixon Cleveland was sponsoring the one-day event.
He said the top players from around the country would converge at the Golf Links course.
Amitesh said there would be great rivalry especially among the national squad members.
"We have already confirmed 20 teams," Amitesh said.
"The number is expected to increase to 30 before the close of entries. Jalen is in the country for a holiday. He is a renowned golfer having won numerous titles here. Jalen will certainly be looking at a top finish to cap off his holiday on a high note."
National squad members Vikrant Chandra and Anuresh Chandra will pair up to make the number one seed. Both have been playing exceptional golf recently.
Suva's Olaf Allen Jr and Lautoka's Roneel Prakash will defend the title. The two players are also part of the national squad.
Former champions Raymond Singh and James Krishna have been classed as the "dark horses" of the tournament with the duo having the home course advantage.
"The pressure will be on the national reps as the other golfers will be out to upset them," Amitesh said.
The winners will walk away with a shield and Srixon Cleveland stand bags valued at $300 each.
Entry fees for the tournament is $50 per team and includes lunch.