Kimani wins Vivo golf tournament in Nakuru

Shell Vivo golf tournament overall winner Raphael Kimani. [Mose Sammy, Standard]

During the Shell Vivo Golf Day at Nakuru Golf Club last weekend, local golfer Raphael Kimani demonstrated his exceptional skills and course knowledge to secure a convincing victory.

Despite the challenging conditions, Kimani’s expertise as a greenkeeper allowed him to amass an impressive 41 stableford points, securing the overall title and emerging the winner in Division One.

Kimani, wielding his powerful swing and playing off an 11 handicap, effectively navigated the difficult terrain by consistently finding the fairways and adhering to regulation play, ultimately achieving the winning score.

Speaking about his triumph, Kimani attributed his success to his strategic shot selection and course management, particularly underlining the impact of the wet conditions on the course’s length, which required him to make adjustments to his club selection.

The immaculate condition of the par-73 layout in recent months has attracted substantial sponsorship and elevated the status of the event.

Florence Wafula distinguished herself as the top performer among the female competitors, securing the Lady winner prize with an impressive 38 stableford points.

In Division Two, Mary Kariuki’s commendable performance that resulted in 39 stableford points, earned her the title.

Clergyman Augustine Kipkemei, boasting a handicap of 3, showcased exceptional skill by claiming the Gross prize with a score of 34 stableford points.

Among the guest participants, Imelda Mutiso’s score of 35 stableford points, coupled with a handicap of 35, earned her the Guest prize.

Within the Shell Vivo golfers’ contingent, H Ikhokoro emerged triumphant, clinching the Staff prize with 20 stableford points.

The Junior winner prize was captured by Jastej Sehmi, playing off an 18 handicap and securing 36 stableford points. Additionally, Simon Gichohi and Peter Wainaina emerged as the victors of the First Nine and Second Nines, each amassing 23 stableford points.

Notable performance also included Paul Muhia's victory in the Longest Drive Men category on the par-five ninth hole, Nyambura Muigai's triumph in the Longest Drive Lady winner prize, and James Ndegwa's clinching of the Nearest to Pin Prize.

The event showcased a remarkable display of skill and sportsmanship, firmly establishing the Shell Vivo Golf Day as a premier competition in the region.