James Maina enjoyed a home advantage to claim the 4th edition of Golf Park Open, the Kenya Amateur Golf Championships (KAGC) series at the par 70 Golf Park club.
Maina edged out Muthaiga’s Shashwat Harish in a thrilling final day, with both Maina and Harish tied at one-under-par (-1) after three rounds of intense play, forcing a playoff to determine the champion.
The tournament, that brought together 78 elite amateurs from across the region, all competing for ranking points and a share of the Ksh 500,000 prize fund.
The champion had fired three over 73 in round one while Harish managed one over par 71 before Maina sunk -4 in round 2 with Harish going for +1 71 but the final day was cruel for the champion with level and harish going for -2 to tie at 209.
It was a bad day in office for the defending champion Josphat Rono was among the notable contenders, while Joseph Reagan Akena of Lugazi Hills & Country Club finished in third place at +1, maintaining consistent form throughout the championship.
This year’s edition also stood out for its growing inclusivity, featuring six lady golfers, including junior player Bianca Ngecu, highlighting the Kenya Golf Union’s continued commitment to youth and women’s development in the sport.
Selected results
- James Maina (Golf Park) 73, 66, 70= 209
- Shashwat Harish (Muthaiga) 71, 70, 68= 209
- Joseph Reagan Akena (Lugazi) 71, 67, 73= 211
- Elvis Muigua (Windsor) 70, 72, 69= 211
- Kevin Ayien (Windsor) 70, 71, 72= 213
- Dennis Maara (Limuru) 73, 69, 72= 214
- John Kona (Muthaiga) 72, 66, 76= 214
- Peter Macharia (Golf Park) 75, 70, 70= 215
- Daniel Kiragu (Muthaiga) 70, 74, 71= 215
- Matthew Mortimer (Royal Johanesburg) 70, 71, 75= 216