Amateurs battle for glory at Kisii Open

Mercy Nyanchama in a recent KGU tournament. [Maarufu Mohamed, Standard].

62 leading amateurs are set to battle challenge in the highly anticipated Kisii Open golf tournament for the 'Shabana' trophy set to make its debut at the nine-hole par 70 Kisii Sports Club course in Kisii County at the weekend.

The three-day 54 holes' inaugural action starting promises to showcase top-tier golf talent and celebrate the rich sporting culture in Kisii.

The tournament organised by Kenya Golf Union (KGU) is among this year's ongoing country wide Kenya Amateur Golf Championship (KAGC) series.

The showdown tees off from 7am with the team flight of home player Isaac Mosigisi, Golf Park's Peter Macharia and VetLab's Ochieng Abekah.

National golf team captain John Lejirma from Royal Nairobi Club who won last weekend in Windsor Classic is expected to battle with other top rivals that include Ellly Barno from Nandi, Golf Park's Josphat Rono, Elvis Muigua from Kiambu and Sammy Mulama from Golf park.

Lejirma said yesterday that this tournament will be his first time playing in Kisii but he is well prepared and looking forward to the challenge.

"I plan to have a practice round tomorrow to familiarise myself with the course conditions. Heading into the tournament my goal is to put in a solid performance and remain consistent throughout. As one of the amateurs in the field I see this as another great opportunity to test myself against strong competition, gain more experience and hopefully contend for a good finish," said Lejirma.

The tournament has also attracted Kenya's four exceptional female golfers namely Mercy Nyanchama from Njoro Golf Club, Naomi Wafula from Vipingo Ridge, Elizabeth Mose, and Sharon Moraa, both from the home club.

Wafula also pointed out that it will be her first time playing in Kisii course.