TV broadcast for Magical Kenya Open faces delays

The Television Broadcast of the Magical Kenya Open did not kick off on Friday as anticipated due to technical challenges encountered while shipping equipment.

It is understood the team is trying to explore other options to ensure that the situation is rescued as there is a delay in equipment shipment and clearance at the Mombasa port.

Friday marked day two of the event which is being produced by the PGA European Tour.

The Kenya Open will also not be broadcast on Saturday due to ongoing logistical difficulties beyond the European Tour’s control.

“Unfortunately, due to ongoing logistical difficulties beyond our control we will be unable to deliver the live world feed coverage of the third day of the Magical Kenya Open presented by Johnnie Walker on Saturday 20th March 2021,” the European Tour said in a statement seen by The Standard Sport.

“In cooperation with the local and national authorities we are continually working to resolve the situation as soon as possible, and hope to be in a position to provide live coverage for the final day of the tournament.

“Thank you for your continued patience. We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused,” the organisation which operates the three leading men's professional golf tours in Europe stated.

The Kenya Open golf tournament was estimated to have 800million viewers, with a 64 per cent increase in average viewing for the European tour which was also to be broadcast live on different Standard Group PLC’S platforms.

With the prize money being Sh126 million, top golfers are showcasing their prowess and fight for the cash, as this is just but another opportunity for Kenya to showcase itself as an alluring golf destination.

Greg Snow of Kenya Kenya lines a putt during the Magical Kenya Open Tournament at the Karen Country Club on March 19, 2021. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]