Mwangi Soars High to Win Karen Junior Challenge in Nairobi

15-year-old home player Nathan Mwangi returned an excellent score of 81 gross points to be crowned the overall winner of the fourth edition of the Karen Junior Challenge tournament held at the lush 18-hole Karen Country Club.

Munene Mutakaa carded 86 gross points to emerge the boy winner at the KCB-sponsored tournament that was graced by 71 junior players. Murimi Mutua returned 88 gross points to claim second position while Nathan Lyomu returned 89 gross points to clinch third spot.

Speaking after his victory at the par 72 course, Mwangi said: “I was late to arrive at the tee box and it impacted my game massively. A gross of 81 is underwhelming as per my standards but I am happy nonetheless. I enjoyed the course, especially my first nine and I am looking forward to tournaments to come. My target is to turn pro. This will be actualized as I am heading to South Africa for my studies.”

In the highly competitive girls’ category, Kendra Keter bagged 97 gross points to claim the girl winner award while Amara Kimari scored 101 gross points to come in second.

“We have a long-standing relationship with KCB. Their support has been pivotal in the growth and development of golf in Kenya. Today’s tourney is a series that started in April and will come to an end in December when we will name the overall winner – a player who wins at least four legs. As we prepare for the KCB East Africa Golf Tour here on Saturday, I wish to mention that the course is in pristine condition so we expect a huge turnout,” expressed Club Captain Collins Were.

The competition drew juniors who participated in different categories based on their ages – 6-8 years, 9-10, 11-12, 13-14, and 15-18 years, where all of the winners were awarded respectively.

Mascen Muhungura won in the 6-8 years category after returning 41 points, Imara Agin scooped the award in the girls’ category after returning 67 gross points. Jerome Njuguna and Wairimu clinched the 9-10 years category with 49 and 44 gross points respectively.

Nathan Mugambi and Ashley Muyela carded 97 and 85 gross points respectively to bag the 11-12 years category. Nigel Gitonga and Nkini Pasha returned 90 and 94 gross points respectively to claim the 11-14 years category.

The 12th leg of the KCB East Africa Golf Tour will be held at the same venue on Saturday, July, 27 where 240 amateur golfers are expected to converge for a competitive tournament.