Wanja ends the year on a high in Nakuru

National Defense University of Kenya (NDU) DVC Major-General Thomas Njoroge Ng'ang'a (left) presents the Rear Ranks overall title to Njoroge Wanja (right) at Nakuru Golf Club, December 21, 2024. [Mose Sammy, Standard]

The Rear Ranks golf tournament held over the weekend at the par-73 Nakuru Golf Club saw an impressive performance by newcomer Njoroge Wanja, who clinched the overall title with a remarkable score of 48 stableford points while playing off a handicap of 24.

This event, organized by a collective of serving military personnel, retired officers, and golfing civilians, celebrated the spirit of the gentleman's game.

Wanja, who picked up golf just two years ago, expressed immense joy at securing his first victory at a course close to his heart.

His journey in golf began under the guidance of Luther Kamau, the eventual Gross winner of the tournament. Kamau, playing off a handicap of -1, delivered an outstanding bogey-free performance, carding 14 pars and five birdies to accumulate 40 stableford points.

Despite a shaky start where Wanja faced difficulties on his outward nine, which included three pars and several bogeys, he turned his game around after partaking in a traditional drink offered by the day’s sponsor at the halfway point.

This moment proved pivotal, revitalizing him and allowing him to adopt a more calculated approach for his remaining holes.

"I had a challenge with gauging my putting stroke on the first nine since it was a bit wet but after the turn, I was able to convert my tee shots and midgame to the winning score thanks to great putting which did the trick for me on the green," Wanja reflected.

He added, "I'm speechless because I didn't expect this kind of an ending to my year." The tournament also showcased other impressive talents.

Nakuru Golf Club Chairman Titus Lusaka secured the Men’s winner prize with a commendable score of 40 stableford points, followed closely by Ben Pennington, who finished with 39 stableford points.

On the ladies' side, Esther Thuku maintained her strong form to win with 37 stableford points, while elite golfer Emma Pennington scored 36 stableford points, earning her the second prize.

In the various divisions, John Kamais excelled in Division One (scratch to handicap nine) with 38 stableford points. Dennis Maari dominated Division Two (handicaps 10-18) with a stellar 43 points. Dennis Kibe led Division Three (19-28) with 38 points, while Ramesh Khagram finished in Division Four with 35 points.

Brian Simbi, playing off a handicap of five, took home honors with 31 stableford points, and Ashok Patel emerged as the Senior winner with 35 stableford points. The event concluded with Cassius Pennington capturing the First Nine prize with 22 stableford points and Judith Mueni taking home the Second Nine prize, also with 22 points.

Overall, the tournament was a testament to the vibrant golfing community and the spirit of competition at Nakuru Golf Club.

"We commend the management of the Nakuru Golf Club for hosting us and would like to commend them for the great work they've put in to the course, it is in great shape," Brigadier Stelu Lekolool, Chairman, Rear Ranks Golfers observed.