Ngige chalks up victory at Muthaiga Golf Club

Crown Invitational day one leader professional golfer Simon Ngige during the opening round at Muthaiga Golf Club, Nairobi County, June 4, 2019. [Mose Sammy, Standard]

Simon Ngige of Thika Sports Club shot one-under 70 to win the first round of the 72-hole Crown Invitational challenge at Muthaiga Golf Club on Monday.

On the layout, known for its challenges, several ties were recorded by some of the 38 out of 45 pros drawn up, who battled at the fairways in the opening round.

Ngige notched a solid 70 but couldn’t rest on his laurels as Windsor Golf and Country Clubs’ Riz Charania, Golf Parks’ Jacob Okello and Uganda's Phillip Kasozi were tied at 71 level par for the second spot.

Great Rift Valley's Justus Madoya and long hitting Dismas Indiza of Mumias Sports Club settled for third place at one over 72

The Road to Karen Master back to back winner CJ Wangai found the going tough alongside  David Odhiambo of Nyanza Golf Club, Golf Parks’ Tony Omuli, Hesbon Kutwa and JM Karanja as they tied at 73 fourth place.

Three Tanzanians in J Leonce, J Molel of KiliGolf and E Lenibris, who appeared on the draws, did not show up. Others were Ugandan B Toolit and John Kiondo of Machakos Sports Club and the PGK treasurer were among pros who couldn’t make it for the tee-off.

In fourth place, tied at 3-over 74 were Windsor’s David Opati, Muthaiga’s Frank Matilo, Royal Nairobi's’ Erick Ooko and South African based Mohit Medirata, formerly of Sigona Golf Club.

Dennis Saikwa, Eldoret Club's Boniface Simwa and Limuru Golf and Country Club JW Karanja sealed the top ten slots as they tied in sixth at 4-over 75.