Filipina golfer, Dena Lu seals Easter medal title in Abuja

Filipina golfer, Dena Lu delivered a standout performance at the Easter Fiesta and 1st Quarter 2026 Ladies Medal Kitty, emerging as the undisputed star of the day at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Golf Club, Abuja, Competing in the Ladies category, Lu combined focus with measured confidence to produce a remarkable round. Her gross score of […]

Filipina golfer, Dena Lu delivered a standout performance at the Easter Fiesta and 1st Quarter 2026 Ladies Medal Kitty, emerging as the undisputed star of the day at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Golf Club, Abuja,

Competing in the Ladies category, Lu combined focus with measured confidence to produce a remarkable round. Her gross score of 96, played off a handicap of 34, translated into an impressive net score of 62 which were enough to clinch both the Best Net prize and the overall Medal winner title.

From the opening holes, Lu maintained a steady rhythm, avoiding costly mistakes that often derail promising rounds. While other competitors showed moments of brilliance, her performance stood out for its balance with solid drives, controlled approach shots, and clutch putting when it mattered most. By the final stretch, she had done enough to clearly separate herself from 109 other golfers.

The Ladies division, however, was highly competitive as N. Nwobodo returned a net score of 69 to finish as second runner-up, while P.C. Ajayi carded 67 to secure the Runner-Up position. C. Adakole recorded the best gross score in the category, underscoring the overall quality of play.

Other divisions also produced strong performances. In the men’s regular category (15–28), EI Essang claimed Best Net with 61, ahead of S. Cheruity (62) and EO Alade (63). Among veterans, A. Egwudale led with a net 60, while in the guests’ category, Ene Francis topped the ladies with 66. In the men’s guest division, MM Haruna edged Abubakar Umar on countback after both returned 64.

Speaking after her win, Lu expressed deep excitement and pride in her achievement.

“I prepared for this moment. Last month, I was in Portugal attending a golf academy, and I told myself that when I returned to Nigeria, I would come back with more confidence. I’m really glad that I was able to achieve this.

“This isn’t my first win, though. I’ve won before in Kano, and also here at GEJ. So this makes it my third win overall, which is very exciting for me.

“I’m originally from the Philippines, but I’ve been living in Nigeria for over 10 years now, so I consider myself Naija.

“What I really love about playing here is the people, the sense of community and togetherness. Everyone is warm and welcoming. And of course, I love the 19th hole. After finishing 18 holes, the 19th hole here is always the highlight of my golf experience in Nigeria.

“The atmosphere is relaxed; people are not too serious, and that makes it enjoyable. I truly enjoy playing here,” she said.

In the same vein, Acting Lady Captain, Miss Sarah Fabuyi, highlighted the significance of the event and the strong turnout recorded.

“We are celebrating our Easter Fiesta Kitty, alongside the First Quarter 2026 Ladies Medal. This event is not just about Easter; it is about bringing golfers from far and near together to play under fair conditions, build friendships, and enjoy the game. As we know, golf is a great leveller as it provides an opportunity for everyone to connect, compete, and celebrate one another.

“As always, golf is a fair game, so you cannot predict the winners. We are particularly pleased because the results collation process was conducted in a fair and transparent manner.

“Looking ahead, this is our first quarter event for 2026. We are already planning for the second quarter Ladies Medal around June or July, and we look forward to building on this momentum,” she said.