NYALI — A cool ocean breeze and firm fairways set the stage for a dramatic showdown on the Kenyan coast, where William Kaguta and Mary Kandu delivered standout performances to win the latest leg of the NCBA Golf Series at the Nyali Golf and Country Club.
More than 200 golfers turned up for the event, which drew competitors from across the country to one of Kenya’s most scenic courses.
Playing off a handicap of 2, Kaguta carded a superb 68 gross to clinch the men’s overall title, outpacing a strong field that included Henry Kamau, who followed with a score of 74 gross, and Gurbux Singh at 76.
“I’m truly delighted to have come out on top,” Kaguta said moments after receiving his trophy. “The course was tough but fair. Winning here at Nyali and qualifying for the Grand Finale means a lot to me.”
On the women’s side, Mary Kandu emerged victorious with a 78 gross, edging out Joyce Radtke (80) and Susan Stokes (88).
“I’m incredibly proud of this win,” Kandu told the press. “The course tested every part of my game. But playing at home, with this kind of support, makes it even more special. I thank NCBA for continuing to support women in the sport.”
Fierce Competition Across Divisions
In Division A, Nyali Golf Club captain Omar Lewa took top honours with 40 points, followed by Vishnu Dhutia (36) and Martin Wahome (35).
Division B was decided on countback, with Michael Mbugua beating Hitendra Halai both tied at 40 points. Tom Soigwa claimed third with 38.
On the women’s side, Florence Karimi triumphed with 34 points, also on countback, ahead of Joyce Kamau and Truphena Oyaro, both with the same score.
In the high-handicap Division C, Virginia Flora (hcp 45) stood out with 40 points. Kabir Kakkar (hcp 36) followed with 39, and Jayne Githere (hcp 27) scored 38.
Guest player Naomi Kikulu posted 38 points to win in her category, while junior golfer Fidelis Wasike impressed with a 32-point round to take the juniors’ title.
Special Prizes and Home Pride
The Longest Drive went to Charles Rob among the men, while Kandu added to her trophy haul with the women’s title in the same category. Dr. Rohit Devani landed the ball just 6 feet 3 inches from the hole to win nearest to the pin for the men, with Sandra Githere claiming the women’s prize at 16 feet.
NCBA’s Mombasa Regional Manager, Yasir Ashur, was full of praise for the day’s talent and spirit.
“Golf is a sport of discipline and focus values we believe in as a brand,” he said during the prize-giving. “Since launching this series in 2021, we’ve seen it grow into something that connects communities and nurtures talent.”
Nyali Golf Club Captain Omar Lewa, who also played and won in Division A, said the event was a highlight for the club.
“This is what golf should feel like competitive, spirited, and inclusive,” he said. “NCBA has been an incredible partner. Their support has helped us deliver tournaments that can stand with the very best.”
As the series moves on to Eldoret next, the spotlight remains on players like Kaguta and Kandu, who’ve not only earned silverware but sent a message that golf in Kenya is growing stronger by the day.
