Failure to raise Sh4 million makes Madina drop Zambia ladies title
Tanzania’s prominent lady golfer Madina Idd (right) takes a shot in a past match. PHOTO | COURTESY
What you need to know:
- Last year, Madina emerged victorious at the Lusaka Golf Club after posting an impressive aggregate score of 234 (78, 80, 76) over three rounds.
Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s top lady golfer, Madina Idd, has announced that she will not defend her title at the Zambia Ladies Open Amateur Stroke Play Championship this year due to a lack of financial support.
The prestigious 54-hole championship is scheduled to take place from June 13 to 15 at the Nkana Golf Club in Kitwe, Zambia. Madina, who made the country proud by winning the title last year, will not be participating in this year’s edition, citing financial constraints as the main reason.
Last year, Madina emerged victorious at the Lusaka Golf Club after posting an impressive aggregate score of 234 (78, 80, 76) over three rounds.
Her performance stood out among top female golfers from across the African continent, including players from Zimbabwe, Uganda, Malawi, Kenya, Tanzania, and host nation Zambia.
Apart from taking home the top prize, Madina also earned valuable points towards the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR), further solidifying her status as Tanzania’s leading female golfer.
Speaking to The Citizen yesterday, Madina expressed her disappointment, explaining that she would need no less than US$1,600 (approximately TSh 4.4 million) to cover all expenses related to the event.
“I don’t have the funds to participate in the championship,” she said. “The venue has changed this year, and I would need at least US$1,200 (around TSh 3.3 million) just for transport and accommodation. The remaining amount would cover additional expenses.”
Madina revealed that she has not secured any sponsorship to support her participation. “Last year, I spent my own money to compete, but unfortunately, this time I have failed to raise the necessary funds. It’s very disappointing, but I have no other option but to withdraw and relinquish the trophy,” she said.
She added that most female golfers in Tanzania struggle with similar challenges, as sponsorship opportunities are scarce.
This lack of financial support makes it difficult for them to compete in international tournaments, particularly WAGR-sanctioned events that are crucial for improving their global rankings and gaining exposure.
Madina’s absence from the tournament will undoubtedly be felt, as she was not only the defending champion but also one of the most experienced players in the field.
