The 2025 Goldfields Damang Open Golf Tournament crowned a champion, and it's none other than Kojo Barnni! But this win wasn't a surprise to many, as Barnni was the tournament favorite.
On November 14th, at the Western Region's Damang course, Barnni showcased his skills and conquered the challenging terrain. He took the lead on day two and never looked back, despite the course being described as a tough one by fellow golfers.
His consistent performance is impressive: 71 and 71 on the first two days, followed by a strong finish of 72 and 70 on the last day. But here's where it gets intense—Barnni faced fierce competition from renowned golfers Francis Torgah and Maxwell Osei Bonsu. Yet, he held his nerve and emerged victorious with a final score of 284.
In a post-win interview, Barnni revealed his strategy, admitting that the course required a thoughtful approach. This win marks his fourth triumph at Damang, solidifying his dominance on this particular course.
The competition was tight, with Lucky Ayisah from Achimota securing second place and GH₵ 35,000, just six strokes behind Barnni. Maxwell Owusu Bonsu and Vincent Cofie shared third place and GH₵34,000, showcasing the depth of talent in the tournament.
Emos Koblah, a veteran golfer, claimed the seniors category prize with a score of 219 over three days, earning him GH₵30,000. E. K Osei and Anthony Gbenyo followed in second and third place, respectively.
In a historic first, professional female golfers participated, with 13 ladies from various countries competing. The women's segment saw a thrilling contest, with Oumy Diaye from Senegal claiming the top spot, followed by South Africa's M. Zethu and Vivian Kouame from Ivory Coast. These talented women took home substantial cash prizes, with Diaye receiving GH₵25,000.
The tournament's success was celebrated by Alhaji Ahmed Padori, Vice President of the PGA Ghana, who thanked the organizers, course managers, and media. Hans De Beer, President of the PGA, expressed gratitude to the sponsors, Goldfields Ghana and Ibrahim Mahama's Engineers and Planners.
De Beer also encouraged golfers to strive for excellence, alluding to the potential emergence of the next Tiger Woods. He honored past PGA presidents and announced the upcoming Genser tournament and AGM in Kumasi.
Sampson Arthur, Operations Manager at Gold Fields Ghana, emphasized their commitment to the sport and their desire for a long-term partnership with the PGA. Meanwhile, Lady Captain Felicity Geabour advocated for more support for female professional golfers, highlighting the importance of inclusivity.
And this is the part that inspires the next generation—pupils from Abosso Methodist JHS attended the tournament, witnessing the excitement and skill of professional golf. Who knows, perhaps one of them will be the next Kojo Barnni or even the first female Ghanaian golf champion!
