‘We’re playing some good golf’

THE CARIBBEAN Amateur Golf Championship (CAGC) tees off today at the Barbados Golf Club in Durants, Barbados, and Jamaica’s talented young squad is ready to compete for top honours.

While it was all smiles as the team jetted off on Monday, it will be all business come the first tee as the talented young squad gets set to make their mark in Barbados.

The six-man team, led by Captain Zandre Roye, includes Aman Dhiman, Camden Purboo, Trey Williams, Oshae Haye, and Ryan Lue. Most of the team members bring valuable experience, having previously represented Jamaica at the senior level, except for Purboo, who is making his debut.

Among them are two former national champions, adding depth and skill to the line-up.

On the women’s side, Mattea Issa, Emily Mayne, and Kingston Burke will aim to reclaim the female trophy for Jamaica while also contributing to the overall team success.

Roye expressed confidence in the team’s preparations.

“I want to stay patient, be consistent, and lead the team well. We’re playing some good golf, and I like our chances of bringing home silverware.”

Rookie, Williams, making his first senior team appearance, shared his excitement, having ended his final year as a junior golfer last year.

“I’ve been waiting a while for this opportunity. The step up from juniors is big, but I’m excited to learn from the experienced players on the team,” said the rookie.

Williams, who finished in the top 10 at the Barbados Open two years ago, is eager to make an impact.

“I can tell you that I feel comfortable already being around this group of guys and girls. They are immensely talented, so that helps me to raise my game, and I am hoping my best stuff will come out this week.”

While admitting to not be at her sharpest, Mayne acknowledged that having three female players instead of four, as was the case last year, could be a slight disadvantage, but she remained optimistic.

“We have some great girls here who are all on top of their game, and I think we’ll still compete strongly.”

Issa, the team captain, who has been in immaculate form, is determined to improve on last year’s second-place finish.

“I’ve been playing well, but I’m focused on helping the team go one better this time. It will be tough with one less player, but we have the drive and determination to go out and represent the country well.”