Zandre Roye and Ryan Lue departed Jamaica to compete in the 10th Latin America Amateur Championship in Argentina. Roye is a two-time participant and the national champion, while Lue will make his debut. They aim to perform strongly amidst over 100 golfers from 28 countries, with support from the Jamaica Golf Association’s president, Jodi Munn-Barrow.
Zandre Roye and Ryan Lue departed Jamaica on January 14, 2025, to represent the nation at the 10th Latin America Amateur Championship (LAAC), which will take place from January 16 to 19 at the Pilar Golf Club in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This marks Roye’s second appearance at the tournament, while Lue will be making his debut. Both golfers expressed their enthusiasm for the opportunity to showcase their skills and represent Jamaica on this competitive stage.
Roye is the current national golf champion and boasts a world ranking of 487, attributed to his impressive four tournament victories in 2024. In contrast, Lue, recognized as one of Jamaica’s promising junior golfers, holds a world ranking of 1,234 and has secured two tournament wins during the previous year. Their initial goal will be to make the cut after the first two rounds of play and aim for a strong finish.
Jamaica’s historical best placement at the LAAC is 24th, achieved by Ian Facey in 2015. This year, the championship features over 100 golfers from 28 countries, including competitors from Barbados, Bermuda, Puerto Rico, the Cayman Islands, and Trinidad and Tobago. Among the challengers will be Omar Morales of Mexico, last year’s runner-up, who is poised to secure his first championship title.
Jodi Munn-Barrow, the president of the Jamaica Golf Association, expressed pride in the selected duo, stating, “[I am] very proud to know that both Zandre Roye and Ryan Lue have qualified for the Latin America Amateur Championship in Argentina. I know that both boys have been preparing well for the event and they will give it their best efforts, and I am hopeful that both of them will make it to the weekend and finish out with strong golf — and, of course, making Jamaica proud.”
The Latin America Amateur Championship (LAAC) is an esteemed tournament that showcases top amateur golfers from across the region. It’s essential for players to perform well as it can impact their future opportunities in other professional golf tours. Athletes like Zandre Roye and Ryan Lue, who are representing Jamaica, demonstrate the country’s growing involvement in international golf competitions. The LAAC not only highlights individual talents but also promotes the sport within their home nations, contributing to the development of golf at all levels.
In conclusion, Zandre Roye and Ryan Lue’s participation in the 10th Latin America Amateur Championship symbolizes an important opportunity for Jamaica to shine on an international platform. Both athletes possess commendable rankings and experiences that position them as competitive entrants in this prestigious event. With the support of their national federation, hopes are high for a successful showing that could enhance Jamaica’s reputation in amateur golf.
Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com
