The FCT Golf Association has chosen 14 golfers, comprising seven men and seven women, to represent the Federal Capital Territory at the forthcoming National Sports Festival, which is set to occur in Ogun State from May 16 to May 30.

These golfers were selected from a competitive pool of 56 participants during an intensive two-day qualifying event held at the IBB International Golf & Country Club in Abuja. Notable competitors included former Kogi State First Lady Faridah Wada, Ambassador Ben Okoyen, and former IBB Club Captain Banjo Obaleye.

Adeniran Olanrewaju, the head coach of the FCT team, expressed his confidence in the squad's ability to secure medals and highlighted the significance of early preparation.

“We aim to achieve a medal haul, by God's grace, during the festival, and to facilitate this, we will commence early training to finalize our preparations,” he stated.

Faridah Wada, who also participated in the qualifiers, noted that her involvement was primarily to inspire rather than compete.

“I participated in the qualifiers not solely to compete but to motivate and challenge the other athletes, ensuring we select the best representatives for FCT,” she remarked.

One of the chosen golfers, Olalere Olakunle, who will compete in the amateur category, expressed his enthusiasm after being selected for the team.

“The two-day event was challenging, especially under the intense sun, and I am thrilled to have made the final selection. I am determined to win medals for FCT, and I am confident that my teammates and I will achieve this,” he stated.

The association has congratulated Rory McIlroy for winning his first Masters after 11 previous attempts with birdie on first extra hole.

The 35-year-old had defeated Justin Rose to win the 89th Masters Tournament held at the famed Augusta National Golf Course in the United States of America (USA).