Philip Ayesu and Leticia Amponsah Mensah emerge champions at inaugural Johnnie Walker Annual Ghana Golf Championship

Philip Ayesu and Leticia Amponsah Mensah were crowned overall champions in the Men’s and Women’s Category A respectively at the inaugural 2025 Johnnie Walker Annual Ghana Golf Championship held over the weekend at the Achimota Golf Club.

The two-day championship, powered by Johnnie Walker Blue Label, attracted over 120 golfers and high-profile personalities from business, industry, and the diplomatic corps, marking a bold new entry into Ghana’s premier golf calendar.

Ayesu and Mensah’s victories were met with rapturous applause during the awards ceremony, as they received their grand prizes from Felix Addo, Board Chairman of Guinness Ghana Breweries PLC, and Estella Muzito, the company’s Marketing and Innovations Director. 

Mensah, who also serves as a Director at Pamicor Ltd and Secretary to the Nsoromma Board of Directors, was hailed for her composed performance on the greens throughout the tournament.

The exclusive event began on Friday morning with a warm welcome for golfers and guests, setting the tone for what would be two days of intense competition and premium hospitality. Following the tee-off, participants and spectators were treated to grooming sessions offering haircuts, manicures, pedicures, and massages—experiences rarely seen at golf events in Ghana.

In the afternoon, Managing Director of Guinness Ghana, Felicite Nson, addressed guests at the first Johnnie Walker Blue Label tasting session. “This championship is a bold new chapter in how we connect with our consumers in a meaningful and memorable way. As we celebrate 65 years of Guinness Ghana, this event reflects the spirit that has taken us this far and will carry us even further,” she said.

The tasting session quickly became one of the most talked-about features of the event, preceding the vibrant Mirror Ball party that capped the night with dancing and socialising.

Saturday saw the golfers return to the fairways for the decisive round. The Honey Groove Band kept the tempo upbeat as spectators enjoyed grilled delicacies, cocktails, and further brand immersion experiences. As the final putts dropped, anticipation mounted for the official prize presentation.

Aside from the overall champions, trophies were awarded in several categories including Category B, Seniors, Longest Drive, Nearest to the Pin, and Most Promising Player, recognising standout performances across the board.

In her closing remarks, Estella Muzito emphasised the ethos behind the event. “With Johnnie Walker, it is always about progress, bringing people together, celebrating bold characters, and creating meaningful connections. We are excited about the journey ahead and proud of the community we've built here this weekend,” she said.

President of the Achimota Golf Club, Dr Frank Adu Junior, expressed his appreciation to Guinness Ghana for selecting the club to host the championship. He pledged to retain the event at Achimota in future years, acknowledging that other clubs may seek to host it due to its prestige.

The weekend concluded with music from a live DJ, great food, and the unmistakable camaraderie that only a successful golf tournament can inspire. For many, the event marked not just a sporting spectacle, but the beginning of a new tradition. The 2025 Johnnie Walker Ghana Golf Championship has undoubtedly raised the bar for corporate-sponsored sports in Ghana.