Njoki wins Sigona Ladies Open as six absentees suspended

A section of the lady golfers will have to stay out of competitive golf after the Kenya Ladies Golf Union (Klgu) suspended them for not participating in the Sigona Ladies Open, the union's year opener.

The Klgu decided to suspend several players for their absence at the Sigona Ladies Open. This decision was firmly articulated by the Klgu Chairperson Rosemary M'kok, who emphasized that such behaviour—where players submit their names yet fail to participate cannot be tolerated.

“This habit of people giving their names and failing to turn up has to stop. We must restore the dignity of the game of golf and accord it the respect it deserves!” M'kok stated emphatically at the poolside, prize-giving gala.

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She said those who failed to show up would be barred from participating in the next three upcoming prestigious events including the Kabete Ladies Open, which is set to take place at the Vet Lab Sports Club, as well as the International Women's Day tournament hosted at the renowned Muthaiga Golf Club both scheduled for March.

Additionally, these players will also forfeit their eligibility to compete in the North Rift circuit, featuring events at Kitale Club, Eldoret Sports Club, and Nandi Bears Club.

To add to their penalties, the six golfers confronted with this disciplinary action will bear the financial cost of double the usual entry fee of Sh1,200.

The Sigona Ladies Open saw an impressive turnout of 161 competitors from across the nation, including a notable group of visiting lady golfers from the United Kingdom.

This event not only celebrates the skills of female golfers but also serves as a platform to elevate the sport's profile within the country.

M'kok reiterated her vision for the future of women’s golf in Kenya. She aims to enhance the sport's prestige through strict adherence to the rules of golf and the establishment of rules schools designed to educate players.

M'kok's administration is keen on expanding the base of elite golfers in the country, ensuring that top-tier talent is nurtured effectively.

In a progressive move, the Klgu is also finalising a policy document aimed at making golf more accessible to underprivileged members of society, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity in the sport.

During the Open, Margret Njoki of Golf Park fired the lowest Gross score to clinch the overall title. She shot 74 Gross points to outshine the rich mixed field.

"I had a shaky start on the front nine picking a couple of bogeys which weren't so good but after the halfway mark, the second nine being my favorite, I birdied and pared a couple of holes for the winning score," said Njoki.

She won a trip to the exclusive Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort.

Mercy Nyanchama claimed the Division A with 77 Gross points. Archana Patel returned 73 Nett points to win the Nett prize.

In Division B, Ysadora Yu starred with 87 Gross points while Farida Limo won in the nett category with 71 Nett.

Handicap 34, Bilha Murithi, won in Division C after posting 41 Stableford points.