The 2024 NCBA Golf Series swung into action this past Saturday, July 20, at the prestigious 18-hole Windsor Golf Hotel and Country Club. The tournament witnessed over 100 golfers from across the region teeing off in a thrilling competition, all vying for coveted slots at the series’ Grand Finale later this year.
The event, played in the medal format, marked the eighth leg of the 2024 NCBA Golf Series and saw golfers competing for top honors across various categories.
Key Performances
Overall Winner: Jean Pierre Smith (handicap 14) emerged as the Overall Winner with a commanding 66 Nett score. Smith’s performance was a standout, showcasing his skill and determination, and setting a high bar for the competition.
Gross Winner: Alishaan Merali (handicap 3) claimed the Gross Winner title with an impressive 77 Gross score. Merali’s consistency and precision throughout the tournament earned him well-deserved recognition in the gross category.
Division Highlights
Division One: Nguru Wachira (handicap 12) triumphed with a 67 Nett score, followed closely by Peter Wairegi (handicap 12), who finished as Runner-Up with a 73 Nett score. Wachira’s victory in Division One was a testament to his strategic play and calm under pressure.
Division Two: James Mburu (handicap 19) secured victory with a 68 Nett score, while Karim Charania (handicap 14) finished as Runner-Up with a 71 Nett score. Mburu’s performance highlighted his growth and potential as a competitive golfer.
Special Categories
Ladies Category: Tazz Padamshi (handicap 16) took the top spot with a resounding 70 Nett score. Padamshi’s win in the Ladies category underscored her exceptional talent and competitive edge.
Junior Category: Amar Shah (handicap 9) carded a commendable 78 Nett score to secure victory. Shah’s achievement in the Junior category reflected his dedication and promising future in golf.
Guest Category: George Kirathe (handicap 16) emerged victorious with a 69 Nett score. Kirathe’s win added to the excitement of the event, demonstrating the inclusive and competitive spirit of the tournament.
Special Prizes: Adan Mohamed and Maria Zeller impressed with their “Nearest to the Pin” shots, while Joshua Maina and Sonia Patel claimed the “Longest Drive” accolades for Men and Ladies, respectively. These special prizes highlighted the skill and precision of the participants, adding an extra layer of excitement to the competition.
Remarks from NCBA Bank
NCBA Bank TRM Branch Manager John Guchu expressed his enthusiasm for the series and praised the participants for their exceptional performances. “The NCBA Golf Series is a fantastic platform for Kenyan golfers to showcase their skills and compete at a high level. We were thrilled to see such a strong turnout and exceptional performances at the Windsor qualifier. From Jean Pierre Smith’s exceptional overall win to the exciting contests in each category, the day was a true testament to the talent and sportsmanship within the Kenyan golfing community,” he said.
Guchu added, “We’d like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners, especially those who secured their spot at the Grand Finale. We look forward to seeing them compete against qualifiers from across the country and witnessing the culmination of this exciting series.”
Environmental Commitment
Beyond the golfing action, NCBA Bank demonstrated its commitment to environmental stewardship by donating indigenous tree seedlings to the Windsor Golf Club. This initiative aligns with the bank’s ‘Change the Story’ sustainability platform, emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation. The donation not only supports the local environment but also highlights the bank’s broader commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
Upcoming Events
Following the Windsor event, the NCBA Golf Series tees off next at Mombasa Golf Club for the clubnite on July 23. The Mombasa event is expected to draw a significant number of participants, eager to compete and secure their spots at the Grand Finale. The scenic coastal course will provide a unique challenge for the golfers, testing their skills in a different environment.
After Mombasa, the series will proceed to Moi Airbase for a qualifier event on July 27. This event promises to be highly competitive, with golfers from various clubs across the country aiming to qualify for the final stages of the series. The Moi Airbase event will also offer a glimpse into the depth of talent in Kenyan golf, showcasing both seasoned players and rising stars.
Conclusion
The 2024 NCBA Golf Series began with a thrilling tournament at Windsor Golf Hotel and Country Club, highlighting the immense talent within the Kenyan golfing community. The event not only provided a competitive platform for golfers but also emphasized NCBA Bank’s commitment to sustainability. As the series progresses to Mombasa and Moi Airbase, the anticipation and excitement continue to build, promising more exceptional performances and a spectacular Grand Finale.
The NCBA Golf Series has proven to be a pivotal event in promoting golf in Kenya, encouraging participation across different age groups and skill levels. With the bank’s ongoing support and the golfers’ unwavering dedication, the future of Kenyan golf looks bright. The series not only fosters competitive spirit but also builds a sense of community among golfers, making it a cornerstone of the sporting calendar in Kenya.
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