Haniff, Sukhram win EU-sponsored golf tourney

Defending Guyana Open ladies champion Christine Sukhram and men’s contender Muntaz Haniff sharpened their game with victory in the European Union (EU) Medal Play Golf tournament played Wednesday at the Lusignan Golf Club. The petite champion golfer  turned back a strong challenge from the female competitors when she shot  a net 72 from a gross 82 playing off a 10 handicap to come out on top.

Haniff was declared the overall winner of  the tournament that attracted 45 players including several overseas golfers who are already here for this weekend’s Guyana Open championships and staff of the European Union office.

European Union Ambassador Geert Heikens (fourth left) with winners of the EU sponsored golf tournament.

He shot a net 68 from a gross 80 playing off a 17 handicap to beat into second place  2008 Guyana Open champion Imran Khan who shot a net 68 from a gross 73 playing off a 5 handicap. Khan also had the best gross of 73. Third place was taken by  Lakeram Ramsundar, while Mohanlall Dinanauth had the longest drive and Brian Hackett, Nearest to the Pin. Lindsay Jones of the EU was declared the most honest golfer at the tournament.

Geert Heikens, EU Ambassador who was also in action said at the presentation ceremony later that the EU was extremely pleased to sponsor the competition. Heikens whose tour of duty ends in a few months said he will ensure that the sponsorship continues.

He said that he has seen vast improvement at the Lusignan Golf Course during his tenure in Guyana. The Ambassador also paid tribute to the caddies, stating that they are a great asset to local golfers.

Secretary of the Lusignan Golf Club William Walker thanked the EU for sponsoring the tournament and wished the Heikens’ success in the future.