Maurice reveals secret to historic golf feat

Sergeant Cynthia Maurice, Nigeria’s first military professional lady golfer, says perseverance and resilience were the hallmarks of her remarkable achievement in her golfing career.

Maurice of the Nigerian Air Force made history by becoming the country’s first professional female golfer in the military.

This was after a week-long professional examination, which took place at HSD Golf Club Bayelsa from July 14 to July 20.

The examinations sanctioned by the Professional Golfers Association of Nigeria consisted of playing ability tests, written and oral.

From a 36-hole beginner to a professional golfer, Cynthia’s transformation is a remarkable achievement.

“I turned pro in the space of four years, and it wasn’t an easy journey. I remember when I first started, I didn’t think it was something I would go on to achieve,” she said.

“I quit on several occasions and came back, and my coach, Pro Emmanuel Odoh, the assistant head pro of TYB International Golf Resort and Country Club, was always on my neck as he always brought me back to the course, each time I ran away and made me see reasons why I had to continue.

“Also, it wasn’t easy financially, as golf is a costly sport, especially when you are trying to go professional. You spend all your time training and paying your coaches and green fees regularly as you move from course to course.

It wasn’t easy, as one had to practice all the courses.

“Three times I had picked up the pro form. I went from a 36 to a 0 handicapper. At first, I didn’t have competitive experience; I was a good player but couldn’t absorb pressure on the course and kept wondering why I wasn’t doing well.

“So, I didn’t make it the first time, which was the maiden edition for ladies, and had to give it a go again a second time, and this time around, it wasn’t just with ladies; the men were also involved, and I still wasn’t good enough; that was enough to make me quit.

“But I was determined and refused to quit against all odds as I tried again the third time and came out successfully as the only woman who made it, amongst about 37 other men.

“So, I think it was a destined time for me, and I want to say that perseverance and resilience, as well as God’s timing, are always the best,” she said.