Team PNG triumphs

Sports

By LARRY ANDREW
TEAM Papua New Guinea are the inaugural Sir Michael Thomas Somare Cup champions after they beat Team International 13-6 in the 18-hole golf tournament in Lae on Thursday.
The Lae Golf Club event was held in honour of the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Thomas Somare and his part in helping the country gain independence.
The tournament, sponsored by NKW Group subsidiary PNG Commercial Vehicles, will be an annual event on the club’s calendar.
Team PNG captain Jessie Tamegal said about 64 teams competed in the event.
“It was exciting because there were good players in both teams,” she said.
“But it all came down to maintaining pressure and playing a good round of golf because it was a foursomes match.”
Team International captain Gary Sugars said club members thought it was appropriate to commemorate Sir Michael’s life through a friendly golf tournament following his passing.
“The tournament was between nationals and expatriates from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Thailand, Fiji and the Philippines,” he said.
“We have a close-knit community, nationals and expatriates, within our club. We all love each other.
“From Team International’s perspective, it would’ve great to win but I’m thrilled with the outcome.
“This was the inaugural event, so it’s great to see Team PNG win. I congratulate them.
“We will return stronger next year.”
PNG Commercial Vehicles general manager Richard Pomare told The National that the company was happy to sponsor the event after club manager David Joyce had approached the firm for support.
“The whole event is based on your state of origin,” he said.
“There was some serious competition and everyone was in good spirits.
“It’s just great to see everyone compete and have a great time.”