Wanyeche, Mollel share early TPC Golf Open pro lead

DAR ES SALAAM: HE professional category of the TPC Open 2026 produced intense competition after the opening round of the two-round contest at the demanding TPC Golf Course in Moshi, Kilimanjaro region, on Thursday.

The national-level championship that carries World Ranking Points for the elite amateur category, has lived up to expectations as Tanzania’s top golfers battled precision, pressure and challenging course conditions from January 29 to February 1.

At the top of the pros leaderboard, Isaac Wanyeche and Nuru Mollel are locked in a dramatic tie for first place after both carded three-under-par 69s in the opening round.

Their composed shot-making and smart course management set the early benchmark and promise an exciting continuation as the tournament progresses.

Fadhil Nkya sits in third place on one-under-par 71, remaining firmly in contention, while John Said and Hassan Kadio share fourth position after posting level-par 72s. Elisante Lembris follows closely in sixth at one-overpar 73.

The remainder of the field faced a sterner test, with Salum Dilunga finishing at four-over-par 76, while Tanzania’s lone lady professional Angel Eaton and Abdallah Yusuph both recorded five-over-par 77s to round out the top ten.

TPC Club Captain Jafari Ally highlighted the growing stature of the tournament, noting that the TPC Open 2026 is officially recognised as a World Ranking Points Tournament—a milestone that further elevates Tanzanian golf on the global stage.

“We are thrilled to host the TPC Open 2026 as a world-ranking event. It reflects the quality of our course, our organisation, and the continued growth of golf in Tanzania,” said Ally.

The tournament forms part of a packed anniversary programme as TPC celebrates 25 years of privatisation, blending elite competition with a broader vision of sustainability and long-term development.

Professionals and juniors teed off on Thursday and Friday, while the Elite Amateur got underway on Friday with the first round of the 54-hole championship. The subsidiary category tees off today and concludes on Sunday.

In line with its environmental commitment, TPC has eliminated single-use plastic water bottles for the event. Players are encouraged to use refillable containers, with free water refill stations available across the club and course.