Nanyuki golfer Marion Kuria Githinji carded 47 stable ford points to become the first player to win the Safaricom Golf Tour series champion held yesterday at the Vipingo Ridge Baobab Golf Course in Kilifi County.
Handicap 37, Githinji qualified for the finals after emerging the winner in the Ladies Category in Nanyuki, fired 23 points in the front nine and 24 points in the back nine to claim the overall title.
“It feels incredible and at the same time unbelievable to win this title. This was my first time playing here at Vipingo. Hence, I had to capitalize on every shot and opportunity on the course. I played an easy game with no pressure as the course was also in good condition though a little bit windy. My four-ball team was good and made the game enjoyable. I thank Safaricom for this wonderful and worthy initiative, especially with the junior programme, which nurtures and develops young talents for the country’s future golfing sport.
Kenya Airforce player Grace Naserian on 44 points was the ladies winner ahead of Royal Club’s Elizabeth Njau on 32 points.
Kericho’s Kipkirui Langat was the men winner beating club-mate Erastus Orina on countback with 36 points.
Collins Too and Naomi Wafula took the longest drive contest while Nyanza-based and Eldoret leg overall winner Alice Awiti won the Safaricom staff prize.
Meanwhile, claiming the Best Nines prize were Justine Ongere on 22 points and Virginia Munyau on 23 points, with Habil Olaka who was playing off handicap 19, settling for the Guest prize award on 42 points.