The third edition of the NCBA Golf Park Open will tee off this Friday, November 8, at the prestigious par-70 Golf Park Golf Club, located at the Ngong Racecourse in Nairobi.
Originally scheduled for April this year, the tournament had to be postponed due to severe weather conditions, which led to its cancellation after the first round.
In a statement then, the Kenya Golf Union (KGU) explained that inclement weather and flooding on the course had forced them to call off the event.
Now, nearly seven months later, the tournament is back and has attracted a strong field of 78 players.
Defending champion Sammy Mulama, competing on his home course is eager to retain his crown.
“I’ve been sharpening my skills and look forward to another successful year. The competition will be tough, but I’m ready to give it my all and defend my title,” said Mulama.
This year’s tournament will also feature the top four leaders in the 2024 Kenya Amateur Golf Championship (KAGC) series: Michael Karanga (Kiambu Golf Club), John Lejirma (Kenya Railways Golf Club), Elvis Muigua (Kiambu Golf Club), and Adel Balala (Nyali Golf Club).
As the 2024 KAGC series nears its conclusion, Karanga leads the standings with 722 points, followed by Lejirma with 646 points, Muigua in third with 415 points, and Balala in fourth with 272 points.
With only three events remaining in the series, the competition for the top spot is intensifying, making the Golf Park Open a crucial fixture in the race for the championship.
In addition to the elite players, this year’s NCBA Golf Series has seen increased participation from juniors and women golfers.
Notable lady golfers such as Bianca Ngecu from Muthaiga Golf Club, Naomi Wafula of Vipingo Ridge, and India’s Riddima Singh will join home players Margaret Njoki, Nancy Wairimu, Benta Kanili, and Mercy Nyanchama from Golf Park Golf Club.
The 2023 NCBA Golf Park Open boasts an enhanced prize pool of Sh500,000, with the winner set to take home a substantial Sh115,000.
KGU Vice Chairman and Tournaments Director, Chris Kinuthia, highlighted NCBA’s continued commitment to supporting the sport, providing opportunities for golfers of all skill levels, including women and juniors.
“This year’s event promises to be another milestone in the development of golf, and we are excited to see more diversity and growth in the field,” said Kinuthia.
With a strong lineup of players and increased inclusivity, the stage is set for an exciting weekend of golf at the NCBA Golf Park Open.