Michael Karanga of Kiambu Golf Club defended his title at the prestigious Coast Open ‘Barry Cup’ held at Mombasa Golf Club.
Karanga secured victory with a total score of 212, including rounds of 65, 73, and 74, finishing one stroke under par.
“The course was in great shape. I felt it was set up for me to break my own record on the first day. Unfortunately, golf isn’t always easy, and breaking your own record is challenging,” said Karanga.
This win marks Karanga’s third victory in the Kenya Amateur Golf Championship (KAGC) 2024 series after eight tournaments.
He previously won the NCBA Coronation Cup at Nakuru on June 2 and the NCBA Limuru Open on July 7.
John Lejirma of Kenya Railway Golf Club, the KAGC Series leader, was Karanga’s closest competitor.
Lejirma finished three strokes behind with a total score of 215.
Despite a strong final round of 68, he could not surpass Karanga, ending with rounds of 71, 76, and 68 for a final score of +2.
“On the first day, I played exceptionally well. However, on the second day, I encountered some difficulties and didn’t perform as expected,” said Lejirma.
“On the final day, I reminded myself that I could still succeed. I gave my best effort on the first nine holes, scoring five under par. Despite some setbacks on the back nine, I finished three under par. Although the victory slipped away, I’m pleased with second place.”
Lejirma has had an impressive season, winning the NCBA Gold Fields Trophy at Kakamega Golf Club (June 30), the NCBA Ruiru Open (June 16), the Ronald Marshal and Toby Gibson Cup (May 18) at Njoro Golf Club in Nakuru, and the Trans Nzoia Open (April 24).
US-based Ugandan golfer Michael Alunga from Uganda Golf Club claimed third place at the 104th NCBA Coast Open with a total score of 217.
Despite a promising start with an opening round of 67, Alunga could not maintain the momentum, finishing with rounds of 76 and 74 for a final score of +4.
“I enjoyed the course in Mombasa so much. I had my best score on the first day with a 4-under. However, I had some setbacks and finished with a +4, which is still a respectable score,” said Alunga.