Local trio looking to make mark at Jamaica Open

Jamaica’s top golfing talent is ready to defend home soil and make the nation proud at the 58th Vybwear Jamaica Open, set to tee off at Tryall Club in Hanover from November 7-10.

Headlining the local charge is Sean Green, who was recently elected president of the Professional Golf Association (PGA) in Jamaica. Green will be competing in the professional section, balancing his administrative duties with a fierce competitive drive.

“I think it’s important that we continue to show up, continue to play, and continue to make this event the premier event it is in the country,” Green said. “My expectations are a well-run event. Jamaica Golf Association always delivers a top-class event.”

Green is not just looking to participate; he has his sights set on a strong finish.

“From my own personal performance, a top 10. That’s what I’m looking for. I’ve been working hard at the game this year, so hopefully I have to present myself with a substantial finish.”

Challenging Tryall course

Joining Green in the hunt for glory are national amateur champions Zandre Roye and Oshae Haye, both eager to leave their mark on the challenging Tryall course.

Roye, the only non-Trinidadian to win the Trinidad Open, is still chasing his first Jamaica Open title. After finishing 21st in his previous appearance, Roye is focused on mental fortitude and course management.

“Pretty much just staying calm throughout the tournament, try to improve on my previous performances,” Roye said. “Hopefully, a low amateur at the end of the week will be ideal.”

He said preparation has been sharp and emphasised being focused, particularly on the notoriously difficult closing stretch.

“I’ve had my fair share of mishaps over the years coming in, and I think that has built me. I have a game plan ready, and it’s just to go down there and execute.”

Haye, who recently represented Jamaica at the CAC Games in the Dominican Republic and the Caribbean Amateur Golf Championship, enters the tournament with momentum and a specific goal. For him, the Jamaica Open represents the final piece of a personal puzzle.

“For my tournament collection, this is the only tournament in Jamaica I don’t have on it, so I’m looking forward to putting it with my tournament collection,” Haye shared.

“I’m looking forward to having a great tournament as I always do. Always have a bad finish on the last day. Looking forward to capitalising on that and having a good finish.”

Haye stated that his preparation has been solid, having played several rounds at the course, and he is ready to adapt to the course in Hanover, which underwent improvements after Hurricane Melissa last year.