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Michael Karanga Dominates 2023 Kenya Amateur Golf Championship, Clinches Golfer of the Year Title

In a stunning display of golf mastery, Michael Karanga of Kiambu Golf Club has emerged as the undisputed champion of the 2023 Kenya Amateur Golf Championship series. His remarkable performance across 18 events in the series secured him a total of 1,213 points and earned him the prestigious title of Golfer of the Year.

The championship series kicked off on January 23, 2023, with Michael Karanga setting the tone for his extraordinary run. His course records spree began with a remarkable 10-under par 62 gross, a performance that not only marked the initiation of his dominance but also paved the way for his eventual triumph in the series.

Karanga’s journey to Golfer of the Year was highlighted by an impressive string of victories, securing the top position in 13 out of the 18 events he participated in. His consistent and stellar performances showcased not only his individual skill but also his ability to navigate various golf courses and challenges presented throughout the championship.

Throughout the series, Karanga demonstrated resilience, focus, and a deep understanding of the game. His ability to consistently outshine fellow competitors underscored his commitment to excellence and passion for the sport.

The Golfer of the Year title not only recognizes Michael Karanga’s outstanding achievements but also serves as a testament to his dedication to the sport of golf. As the series unfolded, spectators and fellow competitors alike witnessed a golfing prodigy ascend to the pinnacle of success, leaving an indelible mark on the 2023 Kenya Amateur Golf Championship.

Migaa Golf Club becomes officially affiliated

A wonderful and historic moment as Migaa Golf Club becomes officially affiliated to the Kenya Golf Union and receives the Certificate of Course Rating.

The club management can now host official tournaments and handicap their members

INAUGURAL AFRICA AMATEUR CHAMPIONSHIP & AFRICA AMATEUR WOMEN’S INVITATIONAL

The R&A will for the first time host the Africa Amateur Championship, scheduled to take place from Wednesday, February 21st, to Saturday, February 24th, 2024, at Leopard Creek Country Club, South Africa.
The winner of this prestigious event will be awarded exemptions to The Amateur Championship 2024, The Open 2024, and the Alfred Dunhill Championship 2024. Runner(s)-up will secure exemptions to Final Qualifying for The Open 2024.
Concurrently, the Africa Amateur Women’s Invitational will be held from Wednesday, February 21st, to Friday, February 23rd, 2024, also at Leopard Creek Country Club.
The Champion of the Africa Amateur Women’s Invitational will earn an exemption to Final Qualifying for the AIG Women’s Open 2024, along with invitations to The Investec South African Women’s Open 2024, Lalla Meryem Cup 2025, and the Magical Kenya Ladies Open 2025.
The R&A aims to attract the strongest fields for these landmark events, the Africa Amateur Championship and the Africa Amateur Women’s Invitational. “These events mark a significant leap forward for amateur golf in Africa, providing a platform for the continent’s top talents to showcase their skills on an international stage.” Said David Ndung’u , Kenya Golf Union Vice Chairman/ Tournament Director
Eligibility Criteria:
To participate in the Africa Amateur Championship, players must hail from African countries affiliated with The R&A. They must be members of a golf club linked to the National Golf Association, authorized to adopt the World Handicap System™ (WHS™). Additionally, players must hold Amateur Status as per the current Rules of Amateur Status by R&A Rules Limited and the USGA. Eligible participants must possess a Handicap Index® not exceeding 5.4 at the entry date and be highly ranked within the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR®). They should also be eligible to represent their national team.
Qualifying Standards for Africa Amateur Championship:
The starting field will comprise 72 competitors, with spots allocated based on:
1. Top two players in WAGR® from each affiliated African country.
2. Top 3 players in the 2023 All Africa Junior Golf Teams Championship individual competition.
3. Up to 3 players currently in The R&A’s Africa High Performance Programme selected by the committee.
Remaining spots will be awarded based on WAGR® standings and Handicap Index®. A maximum of 8 players from any country (excluding the host) and 12 from the host country is set, with potential extensions at the Committee’s discretion.
Qualifying Standards for Africa Amateur Women’s Invitational:
The Invitational will feature 20 competitors, including the top three WAGR® players from each affiliated African country. Up to 3 players from The R&A’s Africa High Performance Programme may be selected at the Committee’s discretion. The remaining spots will be chosen by the Committee.
Caddies are not permitted during either event.
“The exemptions and opportunities provided to the winners underscore our goal of not only celebrating excellence but also facilitating the continued development of our golfing community.” Added David Ndung’u
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Naomi Wafula wins 2023 Kiambu Open

Naomi Wafula makes history as the first Lady to win in a Kenya Amateur Golf Championship (KAGC) series which was hosted by Kiambu Golf Club.
After four holes tie playoff with Godfrey Nsubuga, who is Uganda’s Best player,
they went into sudden death and played hole 18 FOUR times AND Naomi came out victorious!
Congratulations

Media link
https://nation.africa/kenya/sports/golf/lady-golfer-naomi-wafula-makes-history-at-kiambu-open-4438866

Kenya Ladies Golf Team come second at the concluded EACAACT

Congratulations team Kenya!

Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Youth Affairs, Sports & Arts, Hon. Ababu Namwamba today at Muthaiga Golf Club receiving the Kenya flag and trophies won by the Kenya Ladies Golf team.

Kenya team came second at the just concluded EACAACT held at Kigali Golf Resort & Villas, Rwanda.
Well done team

2023 Manchester Salver – Eldoret Club

The highly anticipated Manchester Salver Golf Tournament will be played from November 3rd to November 5th, 2023, at the Eldoret Club. This premier event will witness top golfers competing for the coveted title, showcasing their exceptional skills and sportsmanship.

Key players in the golfing arena, Michael Karanga and John Lejirma, are all geared up to go head-to-head in a fierce battle for the top prize. These two formidable competitors have consistently displayed remarkable prowess on the green, and fans can expect nothing less than a thrilling display of golfing excellence.

The Manchester Salver has attracted a stellar field of 76 participants from all corners of the country, promising a highly competitive and exciting event. Among the esteemed participants are accomplished female golfers, including Naomi Wafula, Doris Mideva, Esther Chumo, and Mildred Natecho, who will be vying for top honors in the women’s category.

The tournament’s success is not possible without the generous support of our sponsors. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to NCBA, KK Security, Kenya National Chambers of Commerce, and Reale Hospital for their unwavering commitment to the development and promotion of golf in Kenya. Their support has made it possible to organize this prestigious event and provide a platform for the nation’s golfing talent to shine

2024 Kenya Amateur Golf Championship Calendar

The Kenya Golf Union releases the 2024 Kenya Amateur Golf Championship (KAGC) calendar with an additional event and a change in the ranking points system.
27 events have been lined up for next year as the KAGC series enters the 2nd year with prize money for the amateurs as per the rules of golf (Amateur Status). The KAGC series offers a platform for ranking amateurs both locally and for World Amateur Golf Ranking.
In a statement, the Kenya Golf Union Chairman Mr. Philip Ochola mentioned that the 2023 season had been very successful thanks to the title sponsor NCBA bank who supported all events with the prize money. “We are proud as a Union to have our golfers earn a living out of playing golf and we do hope that in future, there will be more collaborations with sponsors to increase the purse and make the series even more attractive”. For the first time this year, a Kenyan (Michael Karanga) broke into the 100th Mark in the World Amateur Golf Ranking, this is a clear indication that indeed golf is developing and positive strides are being made by all related stakeholders towards transforming golf in the country.
The 2024 season will see the revival of Diani Beach Masters which shall be hosted by Diamond Leisure lodge golf resort in the Coast Region from 18th-20th October 2024. “We happily welcome the event back to the calendar as this is an additional platform to get our top amateurs to compete for the prize money and ranking points” Mr. David Ndung’u –The Tournaments Director.
As a norm, the series will kick off at Sigona Golf Club for the Annual Sigona Bowl Tournament on the 26th-28th January 2024, the KGU-owned events have been scheduled as follows; Kenya Amateur Matchplay Championship- 11th-14th July 2024 at Sigona Golf Club and the Kenya Amateur Strokeplay Championship -1st-4th August 2024 at Nyali Golf & Country Club. “For next year, we will use a tiered points system to award KAGC points, based on the strength of the field that each event attracts, The events will be categorized in to 3 tiers.” Added Mr. Ndung’u.