A total of 24 professional and junior golfers have qualified for the third round of the Lina PG Tour currently underway at Lugalo Golf Club, after outperforming their fellow competitors in the initial stages of the tournament.
The tournament, which teed off on July 17 and runs through July 20, 2025, has brought together 68 players and is held in honour of the late Lina Nkya, a former national women’s golf team player. The event has been organised by her family to celebrate her legacy and promote the sport.
Speaking during a media briefing at the course, Yasmin Chali, one of the tournament’s founders and daughter of the late Lina Nkya, said the third round will feature 12 professional golfers and 12 juniors who posted the highest scores.
“These 24 players have performed exceptionally well and will continue to compete in the remaining rounds, culminating on Sunday, July 20, when the winners will be crowned,” she said.
In addition to the main competition, Chali noted that a group of 82 amateur players comprising women, senior citizens, and children will also participate on July 19 and 20 as part of the side events aimed at building enthusiasm and inclusivity in the sport.
“The amateur players may not yet meet the standard of juniors or professionals, but their participation is crucial. It builds confidence, develops skills, and creates a pathway for potential transition into higher competitive categories,” she said.
Despite the tournament’s growing popularity and positive reception, Chali said the organisers continue to face financial constraints due to lack of sponsorship.
“We are encouraged by the support and excitement around the tournament, but the cost of organising such an event remains high. Unfortunately, we are yet to secure sponsorship from within the country,” she said.
She called on corporate entities, development partners, and individuals to consider investing in the tournament to help grow the sport and nurture emerging talent.
“Our aim is to elevate the Lina PG Tour into a premier golfing event on Tanzania’s calendar, but we can only achieve that with support. Sponsorship will enable us to expand participation, improve facilities, and create more opportunities for players at all levels,” she added.
Now in its fourth edition, the Lina PG Tour continues to serve as a vital platform for identifying and promoting golf talent in Tanzania, while also preserving the legacy of one of the country's golfing pioneers.