Ex-pro golfer Joe passes on
MBABANE – The country’s former professional golfer Joe Dlamini has died.
Dlamini was once a member of the Sunshine Tour, a men’s professional golf tour based in Southern Africa and is one of the six tours which form part of the International Federation of PGA Tours.
The Eswatini Professional Golfer Association (EPGA) confirmed the passing away of Dlamini earlier in the week through a statement.
Dlamini is rated among the best golfers ever in the country as in 2014 he was one of six players inducted into the Southern Africa Golf Hall of Fame. The others were Simon Hobday, Tony Johnstone, Rae Hast, and Arthur Walker according to the sowetanlive.co.za.
The six were victorious across the better part of a century, starting in 1908 with Port Elizabeth-based Bright and Dlamini was among that crew that dominated.
He won more than a dozen professional tournaments, including four on the Sunshine Tour. The Sunshine Tour sends its condolences upon learning of the passing away of Dlamini as they posted a message on their Facebook page.
“The Sunshine Tour is sad to hear that this icon of golf in Swaziland passed away. RIP Joe Dlamini” reads the message.
Dlamini who was now known as ‘ Mkhulu Joe’ will be laid to rest on Saturday morning as per ‘lisiko leMalangeni’ (Emalangeni culture).
Donate
Meanwhile, the country’s golfers and officials are expected to donate about E20 000 to his family as one way of showing appreciation for the hard work he did while serving golf internationally and in the country.
“Good evening EPGA members. We wish to advise about the passing of one of our own, the Eswatini golf Legend Mr Joe Dlamini. Please send your donation to the secretary Sifiso Nhlengetfwa on Mobile Money or ewallet 7626 4036,” reads a statement.