Chinese Wu Ashun takes home Sh37 million as 2022 Magical Kenya Open Golf Championships ends

Wu Ashun of China being awarded trophy by President Uhuru Kenyatta  after winning overall Magical Kenya Open title at Muthaiga Golf Club. March 6, 2022. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Wu Ashun of China is the winner of the 53rd edition of the Magical Kenya Open golf championships.

The Chinese national fired six-under-par 65 on the final day on Sunday for a total of four rounds of 16 under par 268 to carry the day.

The sweet victory saw the champion walk home with Sh37 million. 

Wu was awarded the prestigious trophy by President Uhuru Kenyatta and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

Hurley Long of Germany, Thriston Lawrence of South Africa and Aaron Cockerill of Canada emerged joint second on 12 under par 279.

China's Ashun Wu with his trophy after winning overall Magical Kenya Open title at Muthaiga Golf Club. March 6, 2022. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Each went home Sh24 million richer.

Kenya's Njoroge Kibugu carded six over par 77 for four rounds of two over par 286 to finish the event 64th overall.

Ahead of his victory, Ashun was assisted by a Kenyan caddy,

 The win was his fourth DP World Tour victory in 158th appearances.

 It was also his sixth professional victory, having won twice on the Japan Golf Tour.

 The victory means the 36-year old, who was making his debut in the Kenyan leg, has now won DP World Tour events on three continents – Asia (Volvo China Open), Europe (Lyoness Open) and Africa (Magical Kenya Open presented by Alsa).

 Ashun became a father for the first time 13 weeks ago, and his wife and child were present at Muthaiga to welcome his victory.

President Uhuru Kenyatta, ODM Leader Raila Odinga (far Right) and Golf officials during Magical Kenya Open at Muthaiga Golf Club. March 6, 2022. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

 His triumph makes him the first Chinese player to win Kenya’s national open, and would also be the first Asian winner of the event.

 Ashun has now extended his record as the most successful Chinese player in the history of the Tour, with four wins – two clear of Li Haotong, Liang Wenchong and Zhang Lianwei who have one win each.

2022 Magical Kenya Open Selected results

1.Wu Ashun (China) -16/268. Sh 37 million.

2.Hurly Long (Germany) -12/279. Sh24 million.

2.Aaron Cockerill (Canada) -12/279. She 24 million.

2.Lawrence Thriston (South Africa) -12/279 Sh24 million.