Kiambu Open tees up as top amateurs eye Sh500,000 purse

Kiambu Open defending champion Michael Karanga during the Winston Churchill Trophy at Thika Sports Club, April 5, 2025. [Mose Sammy, Standard]

A field of 98 golfers has been drawn up for the NCBA 2025 Kiambu Open, which tees up on Friday through Sunday at the nine-hole layout.

All eyes are set on the fat purse of Sh500,000 that is up for grabs in the tournament.

The opening flight will feature a competitive trio consisting of Naomi Wafula, Darren Chesumei and Junaid Manji, as they kick off the tournament at 7am.

Notably, some returning golfers will be aiming to reclaim the title from favourite homeboy Michael Karanga, who has not had a good run this year.

Karanga, the inaugural champion of the 2022 Kiambu Open, is determined to shake off his recent struggles and reclaim the pole position as the Kenya champion.

Among the notable competitors poised to provide fierce competition are Adel Balala, known for his long hitting and precision on the course; the talented John Lejirma; and Josephat Rono, the recent winner of the Trans Nzoia Open.

Veteran amateur Steve Kiaro will also be in attendance. And lady golfer, Nelly Gachanga, the 2025 Kenya Ladies Golf Union (KLGU) 54-hole strokeplay champion among a decorated field.

Adding an international flair to the tournament, a contingent of foreign players, including the Rwandese trio of Felix Dusabe, Didas Ndindabahizi, and Alain Niyonkuru.

Uganda will be represented by the dynamic duo of Joseph Kasozi and Allan Mugisha, while Salum Nkurunziza will proudly be carrying the Burundian flag at this prestigious event.

With a mix of local and international competitors, the Kiambu Open promises to deliver an exciting weekend of golf where every stroke counts.