A 23-year-old who began as a golf caddie carrying golf bags and clubs for others won the 45th RC Manubhai Open at the Ba Golf Club.
And Jone Salauca, aims to become a professional golfer in future.
Salauca, who hails from Nauluvatu, Waimaro in Naitasiri, scored his biggest win since taking up the sport in 2005.
He is the younger brother of professional golfer Apenisa Koroicure.
“In 2003 I always follow my brother around the golf course and carry his bag,” he said. “In 2005 I became a junior player and in 2009 I was a member of the Nadi Golf Club. This was made possible by a friend, Mark Keaton who paid my registration fee. In 2012 I came back to Suva and joined the Fiji Golf Club.”
The former student of John Wesley College hopes to improve his skills and is grateful to those who have been helping him.
“A club at the Fiji Golf Club called the Mafia group sponsored my trip to Ba.
“I never thought I’ll win as my aim was to participate in tournaments before I could go on to play the bigger competitions. But I am honoured I won and there will be many more to come.
“I thank my parents for supporting me and I owe it to them. I aim to represent Fiji at the Pacific Games and be a professional golfer in future.”