Karanja triumphs in thrilling tee-off showdown in Kiambu

It was a weekend filled with high-stakes swings and spectacular putts as the 104 golfers competed in the 11th leg of the Tee-Off with Crown series at Kiambu Golf Club.

The fairways witnessed fierce competition, but only a few could walk away with the top honours.

The day’s top prize was claimed by veteran golfer, James Karanja, with a commanding score of 41 stableford points.

His steady hand and sharp focus paid off significantly after he returned from a recovery journey, having been away from golf for a while.

In his acceptance speech, Karanja said; “I may be a retired engineer, but I’m never ashamed of my game and handicap. I’ve been away from the game due to sickness, but I’m fighting my way back. This win proves you should never forget the game you love.”

In the men’s division, the finish was a nail-biting affair. Isaac Wangethi took the title with 39 stableford points.

The men’s winner second prize was on count-back, with Paul Murumba edging out Jackson Ndungu after both finished with 38 stableford points.

George Maara showcased his skills, securing the Gross winner award with a score of 80 gross points. The ladies brought their A-game, too. Jacinta Wakahora was the star of the day, earning the Lady winner title with 37 stablerford points. Wanjiru Kamau was a worthy runner-up with 36 stableford points.

Also recognised for their excellence across other categories were Newton Ndebu, who won in the subsidiary men’s division with 37 stableford points, while Duncan Mwaniki was the best among the guests, finishing with 36 stableford points. The Junior winner was Adrian Mungai, who scored 30 stableford points.

In the split-course competition, Evanson Kimemia aced the First-Nine with 21 stableford points, and Rose Kabutha took the Second-Nine on a countback score of 19 stableford points.

There were 10 twos achieved during the meet, including Francis Kiruri and Fred Mwangi, each receiving six golf balls for their feat.

At Ruiru Sports Club, Anthony Muiga was declared the overall winner with an impressive 42 stableford points. Gabriel Wabuti also dominated on a similar score of 42 stableford points to win the men’s division. Judy Nyambura was the top lady with 41 stableford points.

Other standout performances included Terra Saidimu (Men’s runner-up, 38 stableford points) and Veronica Mwaura (Lady runner-up, 40 stableford points. PM Mwangi and Michael Waititu took the men’s first and second nines, while Shobna Patel and Liz Mwaura claimed the ladies’ nines.

Navin Shah won the guest men’s title, and Milka Ikote took the ladies’ title.

Michael Gachanja won Division Two, Mary Wanjiku was the Gross winner, and Mumbi Gatu prevailed in the Junior category. Special recognition went to Duncan Kung’u and Janet Mwangi for the Longest Drives in both men and ladies’ categories, and Stephen Moche and Grace Miano for Nearest to Pin Men and Ladies’ winners, respectively.