Akello defies odds to clinch November Mug of the Month at Nyanza Golf Club

On a sunlit Sunday at the scenic Nyanza Golf Club, nestled on the shores of Lake Victoria, Dr. Lina Akello etched her name into the club’s golfing history by winning the prestigious Mug of the Month for November 2024.

Akello secured her victory after a nail-biting count-back tie with Tabitha Ojwang, with both recording an impressive score of 67-net.

Speaking after her victory, Akello expressed her delight at triumphing over fierce competition.

“It feels amazing to win this Mug of the Month title, especially in such a closely contested tournament. My short game really worked for me today, and I stayed focused throughout.

“Beating the top golfers here, especially on such a picturesque course, is a huge achievement,” she said.

For Dr. Akello, the win marked a significant personal milestone and underscored the depth of talent at the club.

“Golf is as much about strategy as it is about mental strength,” she noted. “I’m proud to have stayed composed and to come out on top in such a competitive field.”

The Mug of the Month, a monthly tournament celebrating golfers born in November, was organized under the stewardship of tournament director Conslate Achieng, who also led the Nyanza Golf Club November-born golfers including Dev Karia, Hellen Muma and Alice Awiti in the celebrations.

The tournament wasn’t just about the overall winner, as golfers across divisions showcased their skill and determination.

In Division One, Elizabeth Akinyi emerged victorious with a score of 70-net, narrowly edging out David Omollo, who finished as the runner-up with 71-net. Akinyi’s consistent play and tactical approach proved decisive in a competitive field.

Division Two saw Lonar Magero claim the top spot, showcasing remarkable composure on the greens. He was closely followed by Maurice Oduor, whose steady performance earned him the runner-up position.

In Division Three, the ever-consistent Israel Agina took the honors, while Siaya County Senator Oburu Oginga, a veteran golfer, secured the runner-up slot with an impressive display that underlined his enduring prowess on the course.

For the juniors, young Israel Ojwang shone brightest, earning the Best Junior accolade. His performance was hailed as a testament to the rising talent at Nyanza Golf Club, ensuring the future of the sport remains bright in the region.

Meanwhile, the Best Effort award went to former Siaya Governor Cornel Rasanga, who charmed spectators with his determination and sportsmanship.

The Mug of the Month tournament has grown to be a unique tradition at Nyanza Golf Club, celebrating golfers born in each respective month. November’s edition was no exception, featuring outstanding organization and camaraderie among the players.

Tournament director Conslate Achieng, who also participated in the event, expressed her gratitude to the sponsors and participants who made the event a resounding success.

“We could not have pulled this off without the support of our sponsors and the November babies who came through in a big way,” Achieng remarked.

“This tournament has become a celebration of talent, friendship, and fun, and it’s always exciting to see everyone come together for such a memorable day.”

The tournament’s success was attributed to the generous support of a wide array of sponsors, including Stanbic Bank, Betika, Sarova Imperial, Jajemelo Pizza, Al Hushain Motors, Pel Travels, Power Lite, and Zuriama Residency, among others.

Their contributions ensured the event was not only well-organized but also enjoyable for all participants and spectators.

Nyanza Golf Club captain Thomas Odongo praised the collaborative effort, noting how such partnerships elevate the club’s reputation.

“This has been a fantastic tournament, thanks to the incredible sponsors and the dedication of the organizing team,” said Odongo. “The Mug of the Month series has become a highlight of our golfing calendar, and it’s heartwarming to see golfers from all categories putting on such a great show.”

The sunny weather and picturesque backdrop of the Nyanza Golf Club added to the magic of the day, as golfers navigated the challenging course with skill and determination.

As the sun set on the shores of Lake Victoria, the November edition of the Mug of the Month ended on a celebratory note, with participants already looking forward to December’s tournament.

The Nyanza Golf Club continues to serve as a hub for golfers of all ages and skill levels, fostering a spirit of competition and community.

Nyanza Golf Club Mug of the Month of November 2024

Overall winner- Dr Lina Akello (67-net)

Overall runners up- Tabitha Ojwang (67-net)

Division 1 Winner-Elizabeth Akinyi (70 net)

Division 1 runners up- David Omollo (71-net)

Division 2 Winner- Lonar Magero

Division 2 Runners Up-Maurice Oduor

Division 3 winner- Israel Agina

Division 3 runners up- Senator Oburu Oginga

Best Junior- Israel Ojwang

Best Effort- Cornel Rasanga