Cheruiyot claims victory at First Assurance Golf Tournament in Kisumu

Amos Cheruiyot put on a stellar performance to emerge as the overall winner of the First Assurance Golf Tournament held at Nyanza Golf Club over the weekend.

The event attracted more than 50 players from across the region, making for a highly competitive field.

Representing Nandi Bears Golf Club, Cheruiyot was in top form on the Kisumu fairways, playing in a high-powered flight that included Nyanza Golf Club Chairman Tom Odongo, First Assurance Managing Director Stephen Lokonyo, and Peter Nuthu. Demonstrating both skill and composure, he carded an impressive 41 points to claim top honours.

Cheruiyot credited his playing partners for bringing out the best in him.

“It was a competitive atmosphere right from the start,” he said. “We were all determined to win within our group, and that really pushed me to raise my game.”

In the men’s category, it was a tight contest between local golfers Albert Ojonyo and Tito Omore, both finishing with 39 points. Ojonyo was declared the winner on countback, edging out his clubmate by the slimmest of margins.

The women’s competition saw Nyanza’s Lady Captain Dr. Lina Akello take top honours with a total of 38 points, ahead of Rosemary Obara who posted 36. In the staff category, Peter Nuthu claimed victory with 31 points, while Alice Awiti of Safaricom earned the spirited “Piga Mingi” award.

In the specialty categories, Cedric Konzolo from Kakamega Golf Club produced the longest drive among men, while Obara claimed the title in the women’s category. Jack Okuku was closest to the pin among the men.

The juniors were not left behind, with Tony Nyambogo shining in the category after posting 39 points. He was followed by Clement Ramah, who tallied 37.

Speaking after the event, Dr. Akello emphasized the importance of continued support from corporate sponsors to grow the sport in the region.

“It was a privilege to have First Assurance on board for this tournament, especially on Mother’s Day weekend,” she said. “It’s opportunities like these that help promote Kisumu’s golfing culture. I encourage more corporates and partners to come support events at Nyanza Golf Club. Together, we can nurture talent and build a strong golf community.”

Club Captain Griffin Owino echoed the sentiment and used the occasion to highlight the club’s ongoing junior development program.

“We’ve got two professional golfers and a US Kids certified trainer at our club, which gives us a strong foundation to develop junior players. We’re inviting parents to register their children so we can nurture the next generation of champions,” said Owino.

First Assurance Managing Director Stephen Lokonyo expressed satisfaction with the success of the tournament and affirmed the company’s commitment to supporting similar initiatives in the future.

“We are proud to have partnered with Nyanza Golf Club to host such a vibrant and inclusive event,” said Lokonyo. “The turnout and enthusiasm were amazing. As First Assurance, we believe in supporting community-driven sporting events, and we will continue to be involved in efforts that promote talent development and wellness across the regions.”

Captain Owino concluded by appreciating the sponsors and participants: “This tournament brought joy and competition in equal measure. We’re grateful to First Assurance and look forward to more partnerships that will help take golf in this region to the next level.”