Luanda: The Ministry of Youth and Sports (MINJUD) has expressed its deep sorrow for the sudden death on Wednesday in Luanda of former athlete and sports leader Manuel Barros. The ministry considers Barros an indispensable and pioneering figure in golf in Angola.

According to Angola Press News Agency, in a statement released Thursday in Luanda and accessed by ANGOP, the governing body of national sports said that Barros’s life was inseparable from the growth, consolidation, and dignification of sports in Angola. “Countless young people were trained as athletes and citizens under his guidance, leaving a legacy that transcends results and remains in the collective memory of Angolan sports,” the statement reads.

The Ministry considers the deceased to have been a teacher, a dedicated and rigorous master, and a human example who served golf with passion. His departure leaves behind a deep void as well as a legacy of values, knowledge, and commitment that will continue to inspire generations.

After being hospitalized for a few days, the captain of the Luanda Golf Club passed away, bringing an end to his competitive career, training activities, and leadership.

Barros played golf before and after national independence in 1975. He trained several generations of athletes and actively promoted this sport. He was also involved in creating and consolidating the Angolan Golf Federation (FAGOLFE).

He won several events at the national competitive level and stood out internationally. He was crowned two-time champion of the TAP tournament in Portugal in the 1996/97 seasons and runner-up in the TAP Open in Brazil in 2007.