School girl Jacinta Njeri is raring to go for a medal at 2025 Deaflympics Summer Games set for Tokyo, Japan next month.
The newly minted Kenyan teen golf sensation will be seeking to go for the medal when games starts on November 15th to 26th.
The Form Two student at Ngala Secondary School for the Deaf in Nakuru County is already inspiring ahead of the global showpiece with her amazing performances in local championships that have seen her bag several glittering accolades.
The hard-hitting 19-year-old will represent Kenya in Tokyo alongside the experienced trio of Deaflympics golf bronze medalist Isaac Makokha, Gilbert Alikula, and Adan Wario,
In addition to setting an ambitious target of winning a gold medal at the Deaflympics, Njeri hopes her participation in the Games will inspire more women, especially those with hearing impairments to take up the sport.
“Being the first time to be part of the Kenya Deaf team to the Deaflympics and amongst three men, I am very proud of myself,” said Njeri.
“When I go to Tokyo, my target is to play a good round of golf and get a gold medal. I hope that the four of us can reach the podium to make the country proud.
The handicap 20 player is currently alternating her training sessions at the various golf clubs dotting Nairobi that includes Railways, Muthaiga and Vet Lab Sports Club.
Makokha, Alikula and Wario represented Kenya in the last edition of the Deaflympics held at Caxias Do Sul in Brazil in 2022 where Makokha stole the show by winning for Kenya a historic bronze medal.
Njeri started playing golf in 2022 after being inspired by her coach and current Vet Lab Sports Club resident pro Shem Orwenyo.
The student says she loves golf because it gives her the opportunity to interact with fellow golfers and unwind.
“I really love the game because I get to meet my fellow players. It is very interesting, the weather is nice and golf also helps me to relax. I’m a very proud golfer,” she said.
Njeri singled out communication as her main challenge in the sport, especially when she is competing against hearing participants.
Team Kenya golf coach David Kihara has praised Njeri for her dedication and potential in the sport, tipping her to medal in Tokyo.