L. MathekaMulama, Makokha in the lead after Strokeplay opening round
Reading Time: 2min | Fri. 21.10.22. | 10:37
Action continues on Friday with the cut point projected for 45 and ties
Playing off handicap 2, Sammy Mulama returned a score of two over par 74 at the par 72 PGA Vipingo Ridge Golf Course in Kilifi County to headline the leaderboard at the Kenya Amateur Strokeplay Championship.
The 45th edition of the championship teed off on Thursday 20 October and will be played over four rounds, culminating on Sunday 23 October with the winner getting a direct ticket to next year's Kenya Open.
Deaflympics reigning bronze medalist Isaac Makokha returned a score of 75 to finish the first round in second place ahead of Bernard Omondi who carded 76 and Dennis Maara who was a shot behind. John Timbe scored 77 to complete the top five finishers of the opening round.
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A strong field of 76 elite amateur golfers, including defending champion Adel Balala of Nyali Golf & Country Club and the current leading amateur Jay Sandhu of Muthaiga Golf Club are among the players who will be battling to win this prestigious trophy.
Balala had a less-than-impressive start again the windy course, closing the round on eight over par 80 to place tenth with Sandhu returning a similar score for the first round to leave themselves with a mountain to climb as the championship progresses.
The players will be contesting for Kenya Amateur Golf Championship points, World Amateur Golf Ranking points and the overall prize money of Kshs. 115,000 which is the maximum limit for amateurs.
The winner also gets an automatic entry to the 2023 Magical Kenya Open subject to meeting the DP World Tour requirements.
Most players decried the strong winds that made the first round of the tournament very challenging. They are, however, hoping to have a better day during the second round.
Tournament director Philip Ochola thanked the hosts Vipingo Ridge for allowing the use of the golf course and maintaining the course in excellent shape.
Meanwhile, there will be a subsidiary tournament on Saturday, 22 October which is open to golfers from across the country, including ladies and juniors.
