School alumni to battle it out on the fairways

It’s all systems go for the inaugural Battle of the Schools Golf Challenge at the East London Golf Club on Friday.

Fifteen schools represented by 60 alumni will compete for top honours in the golf tournament, which is hosted by the non-profit organisation Alumni Community.

According to its founder, Thando Mpulu, the golf tournament will help reach out to disadvantaged schools via their alumni.

The Daily Dispatch, representing editor Cheri-ann James’s former school, AW Barnes Primary, will be part of the event and Mpulu believes the team are among the favourites.

Other competitors are Thembalabantu (Mickey Mama), Hlokoma High (Dr Siya Bungane), Phakamani SSS (Sydwell Maqhula), Ngqutura (Dumisani Mpafa), Mzokhanyo Senior Secondary (Luzuko Mbuku), East London High (Ashely Vasi), Masiphatisane (Thando Mpulu) and Qhasana High (Bongani Siqoko).

The Dispatch teams consists of audience development and special projects manager Dominic Peel (captain), former Dale rugby player Luthando Mkwelo, AW Barnes Primary head of sport Jason van Zyl and Mthatha Bush Bucks legend William Mugeyi.

“The alumni are excited to be part of the event,” Mpulu said.

“We have a lot of favourites in the challenge; Mickey Mama and his team are used to winning in golf tournaments and they will be looking to do the same in this one.

“Dr Bungane has a low handicap and has been playing golf for a long time,” he said.

Bungane’s team includes James Mbodamo, Xola Mambushe and Mziyanda Sixaka while Mama’s side has Millie Dondashe, Nosisa Penxa and Phinda Danisa in its ranks.

East London High will be represented by Ashley Vasi, Gavin Moonieyan, Ryan Vasi and Fanie Jogie.

First prize is a R5,000 voucher, second R3,000 and third R2,000.

The vouchers will be used for school maintenance.