Habeeb Akeem wins sixth Insurance open golf tournament

Habeeb Akeem from Ilorin Golf Club emerged the winner of the sixth edition of Insurance open golf tournament played on Sunday at the Ibadan Golf Club (IGC), Onireke, Ibadan.

Akeem played 154 gross over two days to claim the overall winner.

Speaking after the presentation, he ascribed the victory to God and his coach who engaged him in rigorous training.

He promised to defend his title next year and thanked sponsors of the tournament for engaging golfers across the country.

Other winners include the Club Secretary, Kunle Akinpelu who won the Insurance staff prize with 204 gross and 158 net over the two days.

Evelyn Oyome claimed the ladies gross prize after playing a gross of 167 ahead Mary Onyejose who played 203 gross.

In his remarks, the Captain of the Club, Mr Seyi Alaba, thanked the sponsors for their commitment towards the development of golf in the country.

He noted that for about six years now, this competition has been on hold due to several reasons that cut across Covid-19 pandemic, economic situation in the country and the others.

“I am extremely happy today (Sunday) that we are able to bring back the Insurance open through our own former captain, a Trustee of Ibadan Golf Club, Chief Babajide Olatunde-Agbeja.

“Your commitment to this competition cannot be over emphasised. You have indeed demonstrated once again your love for Ibadan Golf Club and your passion for the game of golf. I sincerely appreciate you and your dedication. May God continue to be with you. We are happy to be associated with you.

“To the Insurance companies that sponsor this great tournament, we sincerely acknowledge your support over the years, it’s been awesome. Your contribution to the game of golf which cuts across age and gender is helping our society positively. We strongly believe that this sporting event will help in strengthening both body and mind such that apart from offering excellent insurance services to the citizens, you are equally supporting sporting activities. What a better way to give back to society despite the economic situation! We thank you for doing this again at Ibadan Golf Club.”

In his remarks, the Chairman, Local Organising Committee, Chief Babajide Olatunde-Agbeja said the aim of the tournament is to encourage more people to play golf especially his colleagues in the insurance industry and feel proud to see more Insurance personnel registering for this year’s edition.

“I also hope that more ladies will take up the challenge to play as the participation of ladies in this year’s tournament is low. Golf is a game of finesse and precision, not brute strength, trust me, l’ve played enough rounds to know that.”

In his address, Competition Secretary, Mr Bunmi Oladimeji thanked the sponsors and the planning committee.
“We appreciate each and everyone of you and we look forward to many more of this tournament in the future.”

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