Today the winners: 15th World Military Golf Championship conclude in Victoria Falls
VICTORIA FALLS (ZIM) - The first day of winter/summer marked the completion of the 15th World Military Golf Championship at the picturesque Elephant Hills Golf Resort in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. The competition concluded with the announcement of the winners after two days filled with memorable hole-in-ones. On this final day, players settled into their competitive games, vying for a place on the podium amid the stunning natural wildlife.
The Men’s Team event saw fierce competition, but the standings remained unchanged. Germany clinched the Gold, with Canada and Bahrain taking Silver and Bronze, respectively. The Ladies’ Team event, however, witnessed significant movement behind the Gold-medal-winning team from France. Host nation Zimbabwe received a roaring ovation as they secured Silver, followed by Tanzania with Bronze.
In the Men’s Individual category, the leaderboard saw dramatic shifts throughout the day. Germany’s Staff Sergeant Niklas Starcevic delivered the best round of the tournament, scoring a 69 despite a run-in with a troupe of baboons on the sixth hole, to surpass Canadian Sergeant Joel Simms, who had led from the start. Netherlands Major Berend den Engelman won a tie-breaker against Simms to claim Silver, with Simms settling for Bronze.
Defending Ladies’ Individual champion Private Pauline Stein dominated once again, securing her second consecutive title. She was joined on the podium by Captain Maude Fouquet in Silver, and Canadian Lieutenant-Colonel Jennifer Jones in Bronze. Despite close challenges, these three maintained their medal positions.
The Men’s Senior category saw a one-two finish for the Kingdom of Bahrain, with Sergeant Sultan Mubarak and Warrant Officer Nasser Yaqoob taking Gold and Silver, respectively. Canada’s Master Warrant Officer Michael Boozan claimed Bronze.
At the Closing Ceremonies, several additional awards were presented. The Don Keus Challenge Cup, for the most competitive team, was awarded to Team France. Germany received the Fairplay Award, as voted by all participating countries.
Following the competition, participants enjoyed a chance to relax and socialize with both teammates and new friends. A traditional dinner and social gathering concluded this vibrant and memorable event. The setting of Victoria Falls provided an unmatched backdrop, leaving participants with cherished memories of the host nation’s hospitality and the bonds forged during the championships.
The event concluded with a cultural day, including a tour of Victoria Falls, an evening boat cruise on the Zambezi River, and a traditional African banquet. Zimbabwe is to be commended for hosting an exceptional championship. As players prepare to return home, they are already looking forward to next year’s championship in Kenya. Safe travels to all!
See you all in Kenya. Fore!
(Source: CISM Media & Communication Department)
