Lucky Ayisah wins 11th Genser PGA Championship in stunning comeback

Lucky Annan Ayisah has reaffirmed his dominance in Ghanaian golf, coming from behind on the final day to win the 11th Genser Professional Golfers Association (PGA) Championship last Saturday at the Celebrity Golf Club in Sakumono. 

The Achimota Golf Club standout, who first clinched the title during the pandemic-shortened 2020 edition, delivered a masterclass in resilience and skill to claim victory with a four-round total of 277 strokes, finishing seven under par.  

Ayisah’s stellar performance on the final day saw him card a second 68 of the tournament, completing rounds of 68, 72, 69, and 68 to secure a comfortable five-stroke victory.  

"Hard work beats talent"

The 39-year-old Ayisah credited his success to intense preparation and determination. “This win is very special to me because the competition this year was much tougher than in 2020. Facing top golfers from across Africa, including West African number one Vincent Torgah, Francis Epe from Nigeria, and other seasoned players, pushed me to bring my best game,” he said.  

Ayisah added that his triumph was the result of consistent hard work. “I’ve been a professional for nearly two decades, and this year I worked harder than ever. It’s proof that hard work beats talent, and I’m proud to have represented Achimota and Ghana well,” he said, beaming as he held the prestigious trophy.  

The victory earned Ayisah GH₵65,000 in prize money, a hamper, and the admiration of fans and competitors alike.

Stiff competition and key performances

The championship featured a strong field from nine African countries, underscoring the tournament's growth and prestige. Three golfers—Yaw Barry, Vincent Torgah, and Augustine Manasseh—tied for second place, finishing at two under par with scores of 282 and sharing the cash prizes for the second to fourth place.  

Francis Epe of Nigeria secured fifth place with a score of 286, while veteran Amos Korblah, competing in the Seniors’ category, claimed the top prize of GH₵15,000 and another trophy to add to his illustrious career.  

Senegalese golfer Oumy Dieye shone in the Ladies’ category, winning with a cash prize of GHC 15,000, a hamper, and a trophy.  

Surprises and upsets

The tournament saw several surprises, including 2023 champion Sunday Olapade and runner-up Kojo Barni finishing outside the top ten, in 11th and 12th places respectively.  

The high level of competition reflected the improvements made to the tournament, which attracted seasoned professionals from Zimbabwe, Zambia, Uganda, Senegal, and Côte d’Ivoire.  

Looking ahead to the Golden Jubilee

The Genser PGA Championship continues to grow in stature, with this year’s edition lauded as one of the most successful to date. PGA Ghana’s Director of Operations, Ahmed Padori, commended the players for their discipline and competitive spirit, while calling for continued efforts to elevate the sport.  

As the PGA gears up to celebrate its 50th anniversary next year, tournament planning committee chairman Hans De Beer promised a memorable event. “This year’s success sets the stage for an extraordinary Golden Jubilee celebration in 2025,” he said, hailing sponsors Genser Energy and other partners for their support.  

Victory for golf  

With Ayisah’s inspiring victory and the tournament’s continued growth, the 11th Genser PGA Championship showcased the potential of Ghanaian golf to compete on the international stage. As Ayisah sets his sights on a potential third title in 2025, the competition is certain to intensify, cementing the championship’s reputation as a premier golfing event in Africa.