A thrilling victory for Kojo Barnni at the 2025 Goldfields Damang Open Golf Tournament has left the golf world buzzing! The tournament favorite delivered an exceptional performance, solidifying his reputation as a force to be reckoned with. But here's where it gets interesting...
On Friday, November 14, at Damang, Western Region, Kojo Barnni seized the lead on day two and never looked back. His mastery of the challenging course, described by many golfers as tricky, showcased his exceptional skills and strategic gameplay. With scores of 71 and 71 on the first two days, followed by 72 and a remarkable 70 on the final day, Barnni's consistency was key to his triumph.
Despite fierce competition from talented golfers like Francis Torgah and Maxwell Osei Bonsu, Barnni's courage and familiarity with the course proved decisive. He finished with an impressive 284, securing the trophy and a substantial GH₵60,000 prize. In a post-victory interview, Barnni, a three-time winner at Damang, acknowledged the course's challenges, emphasizing the need for wise gameplay.
The runner-up, Lucky Ayisah, an Achimota golfer and last year's Genser tournament champion, took home GH₵35,000 after an impressive performance. Maxwell Owusu Bonsu from the Royal Golf Club and another Achimota golfer, Vincent Cofie, tied for third, sharing GH₵34,000. In the seniors category, veteran Emos Koblah emerged victorious, winning GH₵30,000 for his three-day total of 219 at Damang. E. K. Osei and Anthony Gbenyo followed, taking home GH₵20,000 and the third-place prize money, respectively.
And this is the part most people miss... For the first time in the tournament's history, professional ladies competed, adding a new dimension to the event. Thirteen golfers from various countries participated, with Senegalese Oumy Diaye emerging as the champion. She defeated South African M. Zethu, who took second place, and Ivorien Vivian Kouame, who placed third. The ladies' segment was a closely contested four-day battle, with the winners taking home significant cash prizes of GH₵25,000, GH₵17,000, and GH₵13,000, respectively.
Alhaji Ahmed Padori, Vice President of PGA Ghana, expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the event's success, including course managers and the media. Hans De Beer, President of the PGA, commended Goldfields Ghana and Ibrahim Mahama's Engineers and Planners for their sponsorship, urging golfers to continue competing to nurture the next Tiger Woods. De Beer also acknowledged past PGA presidents and announced that the Genser tournament and AGM would soon take place in Kumasi.
Sampson Arthur, Gold Fields Ghana's Operations Manager at Abosso, emphasized their commitment to supporting the PGA, looking forward to deeper collaboration. Lady Captain Felicity Geabour appealed for more support for female professional golfers, ensuring their growth and recognition in the sport. Additionally, pupils from Abosso Methodist JHS attended the tournament, gaining valuable insights into the world of golf.
This historic tournament not only showcased exceptional talent but also highlighted the importance of diversity and collaboration within the golf community. As we celebrate Kojo Barnni's victory, let's also acknowledge the incredible achievements of all participants, especially the ladies who made history.
What are your thoughts on this inspiring event? Do you think the inclusion of professional ladies adds a new dynamic to golf tournaments? Share your opinions in the comments below!
