Former caddie Nabwire triumphs as Nakuru Golf Club turns 100!

Amidst the radiant echoes of the 2023 centenary celebration, Nakuru Golf Club stands triumphant, having orchestrated an event that not only crowned 2023 with historic significance but also paved the way for the future of golf in Nakuru.

Hosted at the formidable Nakuru Golf Club with its challenging par 73 course, the event drew more than 200 avid golfers and notable personalities including Finance CS Prof Njuguna Ndungu, Water CS Zack Njeru, and Kenya Golf Union (KGU) chairman Philip Ochola.

In a thrilling race for victory, former caddie Gentar Nabwire clinched the top spot with a remarkable performance. Playing off a handicap of 23, she delivered an impeccable round, accumulating an impressive 43 points. Her outstanding display not only secured her the title of the overall winner but also earned her the spotlight in the presence of esteemed guests of honor and Nakuru Golf Club chairman, Mandeep Sahota.

 I would like to thank my playing partner for supporting me throughout the 18 holes , though I was lucky enough to have things go my way despite some few hiccups and hold ups. I also wish to thank all the sponsors for making it successful. I am hoping for much greater in the future.

Genter Nabwire

Nabwire’s impressive round included a series of pars, strategically outplaying her more experienced competitor, Javan Muriithi, by a single point. Muriithi, with a handicap of 10, had initially carded 42 points, seemingly securing victory until Nabwire’s outstanding performance shifted the narrative.

Notable Performances

• Overall winner – Gentar Nabwire 43 stable ford points.
• 1st Runners Up – Javan Muriithi 42 stable ford points.
• 2nd Runners Up – Ken Biegon 40 stable ford points.
• Man Winner – Mandeep Jajuha – 40 stable ford points.
• Lady Winner – Margaret Wanjiru 38 stable ford points.
• Senior Winner – MS Malik 34 stable ford points.
• Junior Winner – Mark Karanja 39 stable ford points.
• Gross Winner – Cyrus Lwenyi.
• Gross Runners Up – John Kamais 35 stable ford points.
• Guest Winner – Simon Mbote 36 stable ford points.

Centenary Event Tournaments

In celebrating a century of golfing excellence at Nakuru Golf Club, a series of tournaments unfolded, each with a purpose of raising funds for development projects crucial to the club’s future. The sequence included:

1. Chairmen’s, Captains, and Lady Captains Tournaments on Thursday, 23rd November
2. County Government of Nakuru Governor’s Shield on Friday, 24th November
3. Centennial Tournaments & Themed Gala Dinner on Saturday, 25th November
4. Juniors Tournaments & Family Day on Sunday, 26th November

100 Years of Excellence

Golf, as a sport, has a unique power to unite communities. The 2023 centenary celebration saw Nakuru Golf Club showcase it’s commitment to this ethos. Engaging corporates, public and private sectors, and individuals as exhibitors and sponsors, the club was steadfast in fostering collaborations that will echo into the future.

As the events unfolded, local TV stations couldn’t resist the essence of the celebration, providing media coverage that not only enhanced NGC’s visibility but also delivered significant PR value to stakeholders. What’s more, the in-house production crew live-streamed the event on their social media platforms, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience for a broad audience.

Club captain Mathew Maiyo, honored with the prestigious Piga Mingi title, extended heartfelt gratitude to the 202 participating golfers. In expressing his appreciation, he underscored the event’s success and emphasized the bright prospects for golf in Nakuru and the entire country

I salute all those who made the event a success. The future of golf in Nakuru and Kenya is on an upward trajectory. I am happy to serve and assist in shaping it in the best way possible

Club Captain Mathew Maiyo

The KGU chairman also took a moment to pay tribute to remarkable contributors to the club, including the legendary Sarah Ainley, Kirti Morjaria, Richard Ainley, Esther Karuga, Steve Kihumba, and Nancy Steinman, acknowledging their significant impact on the golfing community.

Shaping the Next Century of Golfing Excellence

Water Cabinet Secretary Zack Njeru, a member of the club, pledged support for the club’s water development agenda. He emphasized the commitment to ensuring the club receives an adequate water supply, benefitting both its members and the surrounding community.

The centenary celebration goes beyond mere reflection; it propels Nakuru Golf Club into a future teeming with promise. Following the grand event, the club eagerly announced groundbreaking developments that signal a transformative era for its infrastructure.

The anticipatory buzz surrounds initiatives such as sinking and equipping solar-powered boreholes, crafting course washrooms, building guest cottages, introducing a private members’ car wash, erecting a juniors’ clubhouse, and unveiling a myriad of other visionary projects.

Centenary Commemorations

As the sun dipped below the horizon of November 25th, Nakuru Golf Club witnessed a congregation of its esteemed members, guests, and partners for a resplendent Black & Gold themed gala dinner. The night unfolded with a timeless champagne toast and cocktails, resonating with the clinking of glasses and laughter.

The grand finale illuminated the sky with a breathtaking fireworks display, casting a brilliant glow over the festivities. This enchanting evening, steeped in elegance and jubilation, has etched its indelible mark in the annals of the club’s storied history, embodying the essence of Nakuru Golf Club’s centennial celebration and signaling a future adorned with the echoes of this extraordinary night.

Here’s to a century gone by and to the limitless possibilities of the golfing journey ahead!

To those eager to relive the magic, Nakuru Golf Club welcomes you to explore partnerships. Contact the NGC management at +254 704 231 641, +254 727 288 193, or +254 735 862 880 to be part of this historic celebration that unfolded over four remarkable days in November 2023.

True competition is not the absence of fear but the triumph over it, for in the face of challenge, greatness is born.

Nelson Mandela