15th WMC Golf - Victoria Falls (ZIM) - Summary News
VICTORIA FALLS (ZIM) - The 15th World Military Golf Championship kicked off with grandeur at the scenic Elephant Hills Golf Resort in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. The event began on June 17 with a vibrant Opening Ceremony attended by esteemed guests including Navy Captain Roberto Recchia, representing CISM, and Major Cameron Lowdon from PCSC Golf, alongside Chiefs of Mission from various participating nations and local dignitaries. Amidst a backdrop of breathtaking wildlife and the iconic Victoria Falls, military athletes from around the globe gathered for a week-long display of competitive spirit and camaraderie.
The tournament commenced with the first round revealing Team Canada's strong start, leading the Men’s Team Competition and placing second in the Ladies Team Competition. Individual performances were equally competitive, with Sgt Jel Simms of Canada and Major Berend den Engelman of the Netherlands setting the pace in the Men’s division, and Private Pauline Stein of France dominating the Ladies’ category.
As the championship progressed, each day brought new challenges and triumphs. On Day Two, Team Germany surged ahead in the Men’s Team Competition, while France maintained a commanding lead in the Ladies’ Team event. Notably, the day was marked by spectacular hole-in-one moments, including a historic first by Kenya’s Sergeant Val A. Ouma in the Ladies’ competition.
Day Three, known as "Moving Day," saw intensified competition as players positioned themselves for the final push. Team Germany maintained their lead in the Men’s Team standings, while France solidified their dominance in the Ladies’ Team category. Individual battles heated up, particularly in the Men’s division where Sgt Joel Simms of Canada maintained a slight lead.
The championship concluded on a high note on Day Four, with Germany clinching the Men’s Team Gold, followed by Canada with Silver and Bahrain with Bronze. France secured the Gold in the Ladies’ Team event, with Zimbabwe and Tanzania capturing Silver and Bronze, respectively. In individual play, Staff Sergeant Niklas Starcevic of Germany delivered a standout performance to claim the Men’s Individual title, while Private Pauline Stein of France defended her Ladies’ Individual title with another stellar showing.
The Men’s Senior category witnessed a close contest, ultimately won by Bahrain’s Sgt Sultan Mubarak. Throughout the event, participants not only competed fiercely but also forged enduring bonds, reflecting the spirit of camaraderie central to CISM events. The championship concluded with a celebration of cultural exchange, highlighting Zimbabwe’s hospitality and leaving participants eagerly anticipating next year’s event in Kenya.
In addition to the competitive accolades, awards such as the Don Keus Challenge Cup for the most competitive team (won by Team France) and the Fairplay Award (presented to Germany) underscored the championship’s emphasis on sportsmanship and global unity among military personnel.
Overall, the 15th World Military Golf Championship in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, was a resounding success, blending sport, nature, and international friendship in a setting renowned for its natural beauty and wildlife.
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(Source: CISM Media & Communication Department)
