Selestine and Karia swings to victory at Nyanza Golf Club in Kisumu

Lydia Celestine gets herself out of the banker during the Riley Falcon Swing Off at Nyanza Golf Club in Kisumu on June 28, 2025. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

Dave Karia emerged the overall winner of the Riley Falcon Swing Off golf tournament held at Nyanza Golf Club in Kisumu on Saturday. Karia carded an impressive 41 stableford points to beat a strong field in the event that attracted top golfers from across the region.

The men's category was tightly contested, with Albert Ojoniyo also posting 41 points to win the men's winner prize, while Vitalis Asewe came in as men's runner-up with 39 points. Trau Bhayani secured third place among men with 38 points after a consistent round.

In the ladies' category, Lydia Selestine showcased her accuracy and calmness to win with 37 points, beating Lilian Kongani who finished as runner-up with 36 points. Lydia also took home the nearest-to-pin prize on hole 13, proving her precision on the well-manicured greens located on the shores of Lake Victoria.

Speaking after his win, Karia attributed his success to a clear mental focus and calm execution on the fairways.

"I remained patient throughout the round. I knew the course is unforgiving if you rush your shots. The greens were rolling well and I just focused on fairways and greens. Playing here next to Lake Victoria always feels refreshing and gives you that peaceful confidence," Karia said.

The longest drive prizes went to Billy Ouko for men and Joyce Osike for ladies, both on hole 12. The sponsor winner was Tobias See with 40 points, while Nicholus Okello was sponsor runner-up on 35 points. The guest winner was Victor Kinyaua who finished with 31 points.

In the juniors category, Faraja Mulunda showed great promise with 42 points to win ahead of Tony Nyambogo who posted 41 points as runner-up.

The event's twos analysis recorded five successful twos from D. Sokhi, G. Opiyo, V. Juma, D. Nyerere, S. F. Ogetu, S. G. Kanjego, D. Karia, and D. Odhiambo across various holes.

The Riley Falcon Swing Off tournament was lauded by participants for its organisation, friendly atmosphere, and competitive edge. Organisers thanked all sponsors and players for supporting local golf development.

"This tournament proves how much talent we have here at Nyanza Golf Club. We look forward to hosting even bigger events as the club continues to grow," said Nicholas Odhiambo during the prize giving ceremony.