Odhiambo wins the Captain Lucas 2024 prize at Golf Park

Marita Lucas (left) presents the Golf Park Captain (Ken Lucas) 2025 prize to overall winner Berry Odhiambo (right) at Golf Park, January 25, 2025. [Mose Sammy, Standard]

The sun hung high over the lush greens of the golf course, casting a golden glow on Captain Ken Lucas's much-anticipated tournament which attracted a total field of 241 golfers to play and finish on the nine-hole Golf Park layout, in Nairobi over the weekend.

As the players took to the course, there was an electric atmosphere, filled with excitement and camaraderie.

This event was not just any tournament; it celebrated a milestone in Lucas's tenure, showcasing the remarkable growth of the public course.

Berry Odhiambo, the overall winner of the day, played with a fierce determination that seemed to ignite the very air around him.

Despite starting golf only three years ago-initially harboring a dislike for the game-he had dedicated countless hours to refining his skills.

His efforts paid off spectacularly as he amassed an impressive 46 stableford points, playing off a handicap of 22.

"Golf is interesting," Odhiambo mused later. "On a good day, you can play well, and on a bad day, it can feel utterly disheartening. Yet, the next day, you return to the course hoping for a better round. For me, it seems those good wins are here."

Trailing Odhiambo but still shining brightly was Mohamed Suleiman, whose discipline earned him second overall with 41 stableford points, playing off a handicap of 16.

Every swing, every putt he executed embodied the spirit of competition and tenacity. The allure of the Gross prize drew attention to Bentah Khanili, whose consistent precision earned him a notable 75 Gross points.

Mithlesh Shah demonstrated skill and strategy with a compact score of 40 stableford points, while Allan Oluoch battled fiercely to secure second in the men's category with 39 stableford points, a testament to the day's competitive spirit.

The ladies' competition was equally riveting. Nirmla Devi claimed the title of Lady winner, carding a stunning 44 stableford points and showcasing her exceptional talent.

Not far behind was Joyce Kemunto, whose determination shone through with a score of 43 stableford points, solidifying her place among the day's best.

In the guest category, John Thairu rose to the occasion, scoring 42 stableford points while playing off a handicap of 15, claiming the esteemed Guest prize.

Meanwhile, Samuel Change dazzled in the Special category, racking up an astonishing score of 45 stableford points, a feat that inspired awe.

As the tournament progressed, the side contests added an exciting flavour to the day. Nick Salat took home the Longest Drive Men prize, while Joyce Kemunto clinched the Longest Drive Ladies prize, showcasing her outstanding performance yet again.

The Nearest to the Pin awards were claimed by Sankei Kenga in the men's section and the talented Maryanne Mugo among the ladies, both deserving of recognition for their precision shots.

The day's events were not just about competition but celebration.

Captain Lucas beamed with pride as he reflected on his team's achievement in joining the league.

"As a public course, we've often been looked down upon, but we've proved the naysayers wrong by joining the league," he said confidently. "We continue to churn out elite golfers who dominate the Kenya Amateur Golf Championship."