The NCBA Kiambu Open is scheduled for May 8 to 10 at Kiambu Golf Club, with expectations of a new champion emerging following the professional transitions of former winners Michael Karanga and Naomi Wafula.
As a significant event on the Kenya Amateur Golf Circuit, the tournament arrives at a pivotal moment in the season as players strive to enhance their positions on the Order of Merit standings and compete for the KES 500,000 prize purse.
Karanga, a two-time defending champion, recently turned professional, while Wafula, who won the 2023 title, made her transition to the professional ranks last year.
Their departures have created an open field, setting up a competitive battle among Kenya’s top amateur golfers.
Leading the charge is Order of Merit leader Jay Sandhu of Muthaiga Golf Club, who holds 560 points after notable victories at the NCBA Windsor Classic and NCBA Muthaiga Open.
Close behind is emerging junior Junaid Manji with 334 points, whose consistent performance this season has established him as a formidable contender. Ndumberi Golf Club’s Elvis Muigua is also anticipated to pose a serious challenge.
The Kiambu Open follows the NCBA Trans Nzoia Open Championship, where Geoffrey Kariuki delivered an impressive performance to secure victory with rounds of 79, 71, and 75.
Meanwhile, the NCBA Golf Series moves to Eldoret Golf Club this weekend, attracting top players from the North Rift region competing for qualification to the Grand Finale in November at Karen Country Club.
Adding to the excitement is a hole-in-one prizea JCB Backhoe Loaderavailable at a designated par-3 hole.
NCBA Group Managing Director John Gachora reaffirmed the bank’s dedication to developing the sport, highlighting that the tournaments provide a crucial platform for nurturing talent and strengthening Kenya’s golfing community.