Muthaiga Golf Club ready to defend title at Patron's Cup in memory of Mwai Kibaki

Jimmy Kibaki (left) presents the Patrons Cup to last year’s winners Muthaiga Club’s team at the end of tournament. This year’s event starts on Friday, August 25, 2023. [Courtesy]

The heartbeat of golf echoes louder as Muthaiga Golf Club, known as the "Home of Golf," proudly presents the second annual Patron’s Cup – an electrifying three-day tournament that tees off on Friday.

The prestigious tournament expresses legacy, camaraderie, and spirited competition. The fairways at the par 71 golf course will bear witness to a celebration of excellence, bringing together golf enthusiasts from across the country.

Sanctioned by the Kenya Golf Union (KGU), a consortium of 14 golf clubs will feature in this grand competition.

The event will comprise four distinct pools which include Trophy Pool, Shield Pool, Plaque Pool, and Bowl Pool.

The notable contenders within the Trophy Pool include host Muthaiga Golf Club, the custodians of the Patron’s Cup, together with Sigona Golf Club and Vetlab Sports Club.

Meanwhile, the Shield Pool will feature participants from Kenya Railway Golf Club, Nyali Golf and Country Club, and Royal Nairobi Golf Club.

The Plaque Pool will include Golf Park, Karen Country Club, Limuru Country Club, and Windsor Golf Hotel and Country Club.

Lastly, the Bowl Pool will feature representatives from Eldoret Club, Kiambu Golf Club, Mombasa Golf Club, and Thika Sports Club. This strategic allocation aims to foster spirited competition and enhance the grandeur of the forthcoming event.

The tournament honours the late President Mwai Kibaki, the third President of Kenya and an ardent golfer who played an instrumental role in the development of golf across the country.

In 1978, he was elevated to the status of Patron of the Kenya Golf Union, and his stewardship fostered a golf renaissance, making the sport accessible to all.

Kavit Bhakoo, Chairman of Muthaiga Golf Club said: "This tournament not only celebrates his legacy (Kibaki's) but also underscores our commitment to fostering a community of sportsmanship and camaraderie among golf enthusiasts."

Action tees off on Friday with an afternoon Foursomes Matchplay.

Saturday action begins with an engaging Four Ball Better Ball match in the morning, followed by another round of exciting Foursomes Matchplay in the afternoon.

Then the climax will be on Sunday, where golf fans will be treated to a Singles Matchplay showdown with 12 individual representatives from each of the 14 golf clubs going head-to-head in their respective pools.

The prize giving ceremony is scheduled for 6pm on Sunday.

According to the organisers, as an added treat, this year's Patron's Cup edition promises an enhanced experience for spectators.

Evenings at the tournament village will feature food, music, and entertainment, with an impressive lineup of DJs set to perform.