Amateur golfers gear up for Magical Kenyan Open
By Winnie OnyandoKenyan amateur golfers sponsored by NCBA Bank have expressed confidence as they gear up for the prestigious Magical Kenya Open, scheduled to tee off tomorrow, Thursday February 22nd to 25th at the par-71 Muthaiga Golf Club.
The four local amateurs who include John Lejirma, Deaflympics bronze medalist Isaac Makokha, Africa’s second-best shot hitter Michael Karanga, and Josphat Rono will compete against a field of 144 local and international golfers for a chance to be crowned champion of the tournament which is part of the DP World Tour.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, Isaac Makokha, said: “My preparation for this year’s tournament has been rigorous, both mentally and physically, to ensure that I am in peak condition for the tournament. My hope is to make the cut and be able to play throughout the tournament.
I am ready to showcase my talent and make Kenya proud on the international stage. It is a dream come true, and I am committed to making the most of this experience.”
Seasoned amateur player John Lejirma who prides himself as the only Samburu to ever embrace the gentleman’s game, will be making his third attempt in the tournament this year. He expressed his enthusiasm saying: “The Magical Kenya Open is a momentous event for Kenyan golfers, and I am honored to be among the players representing our country. I am focused on giving my all on the course and making Kenya proud.
Meanwhile, Josephat Rono from Golf Park who will be making his debut at the tournament relishes the opportunity to play alongside top golfers around the world, “As a first-timer, I am thrilled at the prospect of competing alongside top golfers from around the world. This opportunity is a dream come true for me, and I am deeply grateful to NCBA Bank for their support this far. I am eager and confident of taking on the challenge and showcase my skills on the international stage, and hope to settle for a respectable position,” said Rono.
Meanwhile, Kiambu Golf Club’s Michael Karanga who emerged as the champion of the 2023 NCBA Kenya Amateur Golf Championship series expressed confidence saying: “Having emerged top of the 2023 NCBA Kenya Amateur Golf Championship series, I am confident in my abilities and ready to take on the challenge of the Magical Kenya Open. Competing alongside top golfers from around the world is a tremendous opportunity which I am eager to take,” said Karanga.
NCBA Group Managing Director John Gachora highlighted the significance of the Bank’s support for the four amateurs: “As NCBA Bank, we are proud to support these talented Kenyan amateur golfers as they prepare to compete in the Magical Kenya Open. Their participation not only represents a significant milestone in their individual careers but also underscores our commitment to nurturing local talent and promoting the growth of golf in Kenya. Through our sponsorship, we aim to provide them with the necessary resources and opportunities to excel and inspire aspiring golfers across the nation,” said Gachora.
The four amateurs will be part of the Kenyan contingent for the tournament which also includes pros Dismas Indiza, Greg Snow, Mike Kisia, Mohit Mediratta, Samuel Njoroge, Daniel Nduva, Jastas Madoya, Mutahi Kibugu and Njoroge Kibugu.
They will be up against some notable names from the DP World Tour, including the likes of World No. 87 Thriston Lawrence, No.77 Rikuya Hoshino, No. 130 Alex Fitzpatrick. Dylan Frittelli, as well as former Kenya Open winners Justin Harding, Romain Langasque and Ashun Wu, among others.
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