Veteran golfer BS Patel returned to winning ways with a stellar performance to claim the top spot at the July Mug of the Month Golf Tournament held at Nyanza Golf Club in Kisumu.
Patel, who rolled back the years with a stunning round of 64 nett, was crowned overall champion in a field that featured some of the best local talent.
Speaking after his win, a jubilant Patel said, “It’s been many years since I last lifted a trophy, so to finally be back on the podium means a lot. The competition was tough, but I stayed focused and I’m thrilled with this result.”
Patel edged out Tom Agumbi, who also posted a score of 64 but settled for the overall runner-up position on countback.
James Odongo matched the pair with another 64 nett to secure third place overall, highlighting how closely contested the top honours were.
In the division categories, Elizabeth Akinyi emerged as the Division One winner after carding 67 nett, with Joseph Atito finishing runner-up on 70.
Dr. Lina Akelo took top honours in Division Two with a fine round of 66 nett, narrowly ahead of Paul Otieno, who followed closely on 67.
Division Three saw Faith Nzomo secure victory on 65 nett, beating Vitalis Asewe, who also had 65 but missed out on countback.
The July Baby category was also hotly contested. Jiten Pabari claimed the win with 66, while Nishal Shah settled for second on 69. Among the visiting golfers, V. Amusala impressed with a superb 63 nett to take the guest category title, followed by A. Karanja with a respectable 66.
Juniors were not left out, with Vincent Odhiambo stealing the show after shooting an outstanding 60 nett to win the junior division.
Joseph Chege and Faraja Mulunda followed in second and third with 61 and 63 nett respectively, showing promise for the future of the sport.
In the special prize categories, Dr. Ojwang Lusi delivered the longest drive among the men, while Dr. Lina Akelo dominated the women’s longest drive category. Joseph Ogweche won nearest to the pin, while Keziah Akinyi took home the Best Effort award.
The ball pool prize winners were Peter Yongo and Lydia Selestine, each collecting a reward of golf balls for their accurate tee shots at holes 4 and 13 respectively.
Nyanza Golf Club chairman Tom Odongo expressed his delight at the success of the event. “This tournament exceeded our expectations. We witnessed great sportsmanship and high-quality golf. I want to thank all participants and our generous sponsors who made this event possible,” said Odongo.
The tournament was proudly supported by KIWASCO, I&M Bank, Crown Paints, Mayfair Insurance, ASSA ABLOY, K-MET, Modern Tank, Safarilink, and Pink-Maraba Resort, whose contributions ensured the event was a resounding success.
