Jubilation filled the air at Lafarge Golf Club Sagamu as Akonte Ekine, playing off a handicap of 28 using 5 Iron, etched his name in history by achieving a spectacular hole-in-one. Wearing his signature Titleist cap and using a Taylormade 3 ball, Ekine delivered the remarkable shot on the 16th hole. The 128-metre par-3, notorious for its combination of water hazards and massive, towering and imposing trees, became the stage for this momentous feat under the scorching afternoon sun.
A hole-in-one, also known as an ace, occurs when a golfer strikes the ball directly from the tee into the cup. This rare achievement is revered in golf for its combination of skill, precision, and a touch of luck.
The historic moment was first announced by the front caddie, sending ripples of excitement through Ekine’s flight members, Otunba Caleb Adeyemo (handicap 26), Alhaji Hakeem Amoo (handicap 23), and Olaitan Shabi a.k.a. Amotekun (handicap 24). All expressed their joy and admiration for the incredible shot.
Amoo described it as a “unique and worthy achievement”, while Shabi remarked that witnessing such a feat in a flight for the first time was a story to cherish. Adeyemo praised the shot as “a testament to Akonte’s commitment to the game”.
In his elation, Ekine dedicated the achievement to his wife, Adeola, his children, and members of both the Titans Group at Sadiq Abubakar Golf Club and Lafarge Golf Club, appreciating the opportunity to play among such inspiring individuals.
According to the National Hole-in-One Registry, established in 2006, the odds of achieving this milestone are 12,500 to 1 for amateurs and 2,500 to 1 for professionals. The first-ever recorded hole-in-one dates back to 1868, achieved by Tom Morris at the Prestwick Open Championship.
Ekine’s incredible shot not only cements his place in golf’s ace players’ list but also brings pride and inspiration to his fellow golfers in the country.
