Golf: Malik wins opening leg at Sigona

Taimur Malik winner 2021/22 Safari Tour series with his trophy at Sigona golf club. Sept 29, 2021. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Muthaiga amateur golfer Taimur Malik is the winner of the opening leg of the 2021/22 Safari Tour Golf Series that ended at par 72 Sigona Golf Club yesterday.

Malik (73,73,73,65) edged out home golfer Mohit Mediratta (70,67,71,77) on a two-way play-off.

The duo had beaten Vet Lab pro Edwin Mudanyi (76,72,64,72) on a three-way play-off after the trio tied on a four under par 284 apiece after the four rounds.

“Today, I played my best ever golf. I still can’t believe that I won,” Malik said amid tears.

“I had a very extensive training  this year. I went to the gym, perfected my shots on the range, I’m happy the results have started to trickle in.

“As we head for the second leg in Vet Lab this Saturday, I can promise nothing but fireworks,” Malik said.

The 18-year old started the final round at Sigona 11 strokes behind day two and three leader Mohit Mediratta.

He literally enjoyed the course and the weather, combing the fairways to rake in a seven under par 65 which saw him set the new amateur course record at the club.

“I want to thank my South African based coaches for helping me to work better on my fitness.

“I also want to thank the Kenya Open Golf Limited that has allowed amateurs like me to play in the series,” Malik said.

Despite the victory, Malik received no cash since he is yet to join the paid ranks.

Mudanyi, who started the last round at Sigona four strokes behind Mediratta, was glad he played his best golf in the series.

“I resolved today that it was me against the course, and the resolution saw me tie at the top before we went for the play-offs.”