August 2024, Kenya
The prestigious Faldo Junior Series descended upon Kenya’s renowned Karen Country Club, where the lush, historic course served as the backdrop for an exciting display of youth golfing talent. Set on the former coffee estate of Danish author Karen Blixen, and founded in 1937, Karen Country Club is a venue steeped in both beauty and history. The course, which has hosted numerous international tournaments, including the Kenya Open, is known for its picturesque fairways and rich wildlife. Its challenging layout once again proved to be the perfect test for the young competitors in the Faldo Junior Series.
In the Boys U21 division, Elvis Muigua delivered a standout performance to claim the title with a solid total of 218 (+2). Muigua’s consistency throughout the tournament, marked by rounds of 73, 70, and 75, separated him from the pack. His closest rival, Kevin Anyien, finished seven strokes behind with a total of 225 (+9), maintaining a steady pace but unable to catch the leader. Mikael Kihara surged late in the competition, posting a final-round 70 to take third with a score of 228 (+12).
The Girls U21 division saw a nail-biting finish, with Antonia Mbuthia edging out the competition to win by just one stroke. Mbuthia’s total of 253 (+37) was enough to secure victory over Cherise Wachira, who finished just behind with 254 (+38). Tatiana Genevieve rounded out the top three, finishing with a total of 263 (+47).
In the Boys U16 division, Shashwat Harish displayed remarkable poise under pressure, securing the championship with a total of 220 (+4). Harish’s steady rounds of 74, 72, and 74 left him four strokes clear of second-place finisher Kayden Wisssanji, who posted 224 (+8). Mitansh Thacker took third with a final score of 227 (+11) after a strong closing round of 73.
The Girls U16 division was dominated by Bianca Ngecu, whose stellar play resulted in a commanding win with a total of 230 (+14). Ngecu’s opening-round 71 set the tone for her victory, with Belinda Wanjiru finishing six strokes behind at 236 (+20). Tied for third were Hazel Kuria and Sanjana Sharma, both finishing with totals of 250 (+34) after three challenging rounds.
The event at Karen Country Club not only highlighted the rising stars of junior golf but also showcased the enduring allure of one of Kenya’s most cherished courses. With its rich history and continued relevance in the golfing world, Karen provided the perfect stage for these young athletes to test their mettle. The winners from each division will now advance to the Faldo Junior Tour European Grand Final at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club, UAE, in November 2024.
Karen Country Club
