Dominant Kenyans miss out on Muthaiga Open title

It was an unfortunate weekend for Kenyan amateurs after they lost this year’s Muthaiga Open title to a Zambian.

Despite hard work, the amateurs fell behind the top spot by only three strokes difference in the three-day battle at par 71 Muthaiga Golf course over the weekend.

Kenya’s youthful amateur Elvis Muigua recorded a total of 210 gross to claim the runner-up slot behind Zambian golfer Michael Chuma, who scooped the lead on a total of 207 gross.

Muigua, who turn out for Ndumberi Club, pocketed Sh69,400 for his troubles.

“Though it’s sad we missed the top title to Zambia because golf is unpredictable, I am very fine with my position this time and will try to improve next time,” said Muigua.

Title winner Chuma from Nkana Club had a two over par 74 gross on the first day, improved his best of three under par 68 gross on the second day and finalised with a seen under par 65 gross on the final day for a round total of 207 gross.

“I have great respect for the Kenyan golfers, they are good players and it has been exciting to play among them,” said Chuma, who got Sh115,600 as top prize money.

National golf captain John Lejirma of Royal Nairobi Club finished third on a total of 211 gross (68-75-68), while last year’s dominant golfer Michael Karanga of Windsor Club emerged seventh overall on a total of 220 gross.  

This tournament, which is among the ongoing Kenya Golf Union (KGU) 31 series leg in the country supported by NCBA, also attracted top leading amateurs from Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda and Tanzania. There were also 13 top Kenyan ladies and two foreign ladies.  

Only four ladies survived the cut with Njoro’s Mercy Nyanchama emerging the top lady on 225 gross.

Action now moves to the 18-hole Mt. Kipipiri Golf and Resort course, the newest golf club located at Githioro in Nyandarua County from Thursday to Saturday for this year’s Victoria Cup championship.  

This is a traditional rotational tournament played between Kenya and Uganda.