By ERICK OCHIENG’
The third leg of the Standard Group County Golf Classic series teed off at the par 72 Royal Nairobi Golf Club on Sartuday.
The contest staged in close proximity to the vibrant Nairobi city along one of Nairobi’s longest roads: Ngong Road attracted over 200 participants.
“Participants from various career backgrounds had the chance to interact and network as they participated which is a major value of this prestigious tournament,” said John Nguraiya, a golf consultant.
Club Vice Chairman, Mark Okeyo hailed the event saying it was well organised and would not hesitate to participate in other forthcoming legs.
Handicap 17 Dorcas Munge was glad to play at home even though the greens that are still on top dressing proved her greatest challenge on the course.
“I came here to just enjoy myself as I have been out of play for a while due to job commitments,” she said.
One 14-year-old handicap 22 Oki Amayo was thrilled to play at home noting that the fairways favored him. “I am hopeful to carry the day, I am elated because I won the September Mug contest here in Division C,”said Amayo.
Just like the previous two legs, on Sarturday tournament drew contestants from the business fraternity, executive world, educational institution and other professional backgrounds.
clear view
The participants enjoyed a clear view of Ngong Hills, which form a stunning backdrop to the two opening holes -number one and two, while on play.
“The participants got the best at the Nairobi Royal Golf Club. The course is well maintained with excellent facilities and there is also a swimming pool adjacent to the club house and a squash court. We reciprocate with many Royal Clubs worldwide,” said one of the course attendants.
The course itself is fairly long compared to most other Kenyan courses. The part of the golf course that is closest to the club house is fairly flat while the part at the back of the course is undulated with a small stream passing through the layout.
The most unique thing with the Standard Group County Golf Classic series is that everyone is a winner after their registration.
The starting series that was held at par 72 Thika Sports Club on August 31, was won by Mahesh Devji Patel and Anne Mukiri while the one at the Par 71 Eldoret Golf Club on September 7, went to Aron Kitur.
Standard Group Head of Corporate Affairs, Wanja Mwangi and Salim Bwika, Standard Group Commercial Manager and Standard Group Business manger Fredrick Kirui who attended the on Sarturday contest are both confident the series is gaining grounds and is among the golf tournament to reckon with.
After Nairobi, the series will be headed to Kakamega on September 28, Nyali Golf and Country Club (October 5), Nakuru Golf Club (October 19), Nyeri Golf Club (November 2), Machakos Golf Club (November 16), Nyanza Golf Club (November 30) with grand finale at Muthaiga Golf Club on December 7. –eoyugi@standardmedia.co.ke
