Golf– South African ace Michael Hallock kept his nerve under final-hole pressure to clinch the FNB Sunshine Tour Eswatini Challenge title at Ezulwini Golf and Country Club yesterday.
Powered by FNB Eswatini to the tune of E2 million, this year’s edition saw Hallock not only secure the championship crown but also walk away with a handsome E317 000 in prize money, a custom-made blazer worth E11 000 and a trophy.
The 33-year-old displayed dominance over three days of intense competition, though the title was decided in a tense finish on the last hole.
In a proud moment for local golf, the tournament also recognised the highest-placed Liswati and the first Liswati to make the final day in the event’s history. James Pennington emerged the top local finisher, earning a combined E60 000 for both categories.
Hallock, who spent part of his youth in Eswatini, was delighted with the win.
“I am very happy to have been crowned champion of the tournament. I played a good round of golf and I am proud of myself. Winning such a competition is always motivating.
“Special thanks go to the course maintenance crew – it is been a while since I played on such a perfectly prepared course.
“I look forward to the next edition,” he said.
He admitted his second round had been a struggle, but a strong recovery on the final day sealed his victory.
Speaking during the prize presentation ceremony at the Ezulwini Golf and Country Club yesterday, FNB Eswatini Chief Executive Officer, Thokozani ‘TK’ Dlamini hailed the success of this year’s tournament and assured stakeholders that the bank’s support would not waver.
Dlamini also praised the tournament’s international appeal, with players from across the globe taking part, boosting local tourism, supporting small businesses and bringing communities together.
He extended gratitude to all partners, including the Sunshine Tour, Eswatini Golfing Union, Eswatini Professional Golfers Association, numerous corporate sponsors and his majesty’s government.
FNB Eswatini Challenge prize breakdown
Top 10 finishers
Champion – E317 000
2. E220 000
3. E147 800
4. E106 000
5. E84 800
6. E72 600
7. E60 400
8. E50 200
9. E44 000
10. E39 800
