Shujaa Memorial Golf Tournament draws 250+ participants, celebrates parent-child bonds

The first edition of the Shujaa Memorial Parent and Child Golf Tournament concluded on Sunday, 20th October, at Muthaiga Golf Club with an impressive turnout. This unique event encourages parents to team up with their children for a round of golf.

Due to overwhelming interest, registration closed two weeks prior, with more than 257 entries, surpassing expectations.

The tournament was held in memory of Shujaa Kariuki Kavore, who holds the record as the youngest player to achieve a hole-in-one at Muthaiga Golf Club. It also serves to raise awareness of chronic childhood diseases.

Muthaiga Golf Club’s Team Reel, consisting of Dr Bhupinder Reel and his 12-year-old son Joven Reel, who competes in the US Kids Tour, emerged as the winners with 38 points. They were followed by the team of George and Abby Wainaina, who scored 35 points, along with Murimi and Robert Gatu, who also earned 35 points.

Kanana Muthomi took first place in the Junior Girls category with 42 points, while Princess Thai Kavore came in second with 37 points. Joven Reel won the Junior Boys category with an impressive 46 points.

In the 12-13 years category, Brianna Ngechu shared her thoughts on the tournament: "My experience was good even though I didn’t play that well. My dad and I pushed through to the end, and we had fun together. I find playing with my dad enjoyable, even though we argue sometimes on the course. We still always manage to have fun."

One of the parents, Simon Kago, reflected on the day: "It was an amazing time playing with my daughter. It's so important to bond with her. I'd rather spend an afternoon on the course with her getting to know each other than just have a 30-minute lunch.

“The juniors are incredible, and we had a friendly competition—my daughter Brianna against Simaloi Mbeya and her dad, Peter Brooks. They beat us! The children’s skills are improving, and tournaments like this help nurture their talents."

Simaloi Mbeya, from the 13-14 years category, added: "When I play with my dad, it feels like we’re just having fun, joking around, and enjoying the game. It’s a great way to strengthen our relationship."

Reflecting on Shujaa’s legacy, 13-year-old Justin Ngeera shared: "When Shujaa made his hole-in-one, it encouraged other golfers to aim higher. I’ve played with him a few times, and when he got his hole-in-one on hole five, which is tricky, it inspired me. I hope to achieve the same one day."

Shujaa’s father, Kavore Kariuki, played alongside his daughter Princess Thai Kavore, who finished second in the Junior Girls category.

The 11-year-old said, "Shujaa inspired me to play golf by helping me practice at the range and improve my swing to become a better golfer."