All set for Nyanza Golf Club's October Mug of the Month

Golfers led by Nyanza Golf Club captain Tom Odongo (left) enjoy a light moment duirng a past tournament. [Washington Onynago,Standard]

Kisumu’s Nyanza Golf Club is ready to host the highly anticipated Mug of the Month tournament, scheduled for Saturday.

This month’s competition, dubbed the "October Babies Monthly Mug," promises to be a thrilling affair as over 60 golfers from various skill levels prepare to compete on the picturesque course overlooking the serene waters of Lake Victoria.

The event will bring together some of the region’s finest golfers, who will take on the challenging 9-hole Nyanza Men’s Course 1, known as Kifaru, for men, and the Nyanza Women’s Course 2, Nyati, for women.

Both courses are revered for their scenic views and technical layout, offering a competitive and enjoyable experience for players of all levels.

Golfers enjoy a light moment at Nyanza Giolf Club. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

This month’s competition will follow an 18-hole medal format, and is open to all golfers with a valid active World Handicap System (WHS) index.

The players have been grouped into three divisions based on their handicaps; Division 1: Handicaps 0-15 (Men), 0-22 (Ladies), Division 2: Handicaps 16-28 (Men), 23-36 (Ladies) and Division 3: Handicaps 29 and above (Men), 37 and above (Ladies).

Only players from Division 1 and Division 2 are eligible to vie for the overall winner’s prize. However, each division will have its own winners, with prizes set aside for the top performers.

In addition to division winners, special categories such as the Longest Drive for both men and women, Nearest to the Pin, and prizes for the best junior golfer and guest golfers will also be up for grabs.

The tournament will kick off early in the morning, with the first group scheduled to tee off at 7:30 a.m., while the final group will hit the course at 1:30 p.m.

The competition committee has released the official draw, and notable matchups have golf enthusiasts eager to witness exciting duels on the course.

Joseph Atito prepares to tee off at Nyanza Golf Club. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

Among the early morning groups, N. Odhiambo, L. Kongani, D. Nyerere, and L. Selestine will be the first to tee off at 7:30 a.m., followed by a team featuring Tournament Director Tom Agumbi, alongside I. Agina, K. Njuguna, and I. Noo at 7:40 a.m. Agumbi, a seasoned golfer himself, will be keen to set an example with a solid performance.

Speaking ahead of the tournament, Agumbi expressed his excitement about the event and the high level of competition expected.

“This month’s Mug is going to be special. We have a great mix of experienced players and promising juniors, and with such a scenic backdrop, it’s going to be a memorable day for all golfers. The course is in excellent shape, and we expect a fantastic display of talent,” he said.

The 8:00 a.m. group will see some young stars take to the course, including juniors T. Nyambogo, F. Mulundu, U. Melody, and F. Mulunda. Their inclusion highlights the club’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of golfers in Kisumu and the surrounding region.

A golfer prepares a sand scrape at Nyanza Golf Club before attempting a putt. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

Later in the day, the afternoon groups will feature top names, including R. Sandhu, P. Thakrar, J. Pabari, and B.M. Shah, who are slated to tee off at 1:00 p.m. The tournament will conclude with the final group, featuring S. Rakewa, R. Obara, B. Aida, and N. Shah, starting at 1:30 p.m.

The tournament will be conducted in accordance with the Rules of Golf as approved by the R&A Rules Limited. All players are expected to report to the starter five minutes before their scheduled tee-off time to avoid penalties.

A two-stroke penalty will be imposed for players who are less than five minutes late, while a disqualification will result for those who arrive more than five minutes late.

The use of mobile phones during play is strictly prohibited, except in the case of medical emergencies or urgent tournament-related matters handled by the captain or vice-captain.

Golfers enjoy a light photo moment at Nyanza Golf Club. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

The competition committee, chaired by Nyanza Golf Club Captain Thomas Odongo, alongside G. Owino, N. Shah, and B.V Patel, will enforce these rules and ensure that the tournament runs smoothly.

Odongo emphasized the importance of adherence to the rules and sportsmanship during the tournament.

“We expect a great day of golf, but it’s important that players follow the rules and respect the game. The Mug of the Month is not just about competition; it’s about bringing our golf community together, and we’re looking forward to seeing some fantastic performances,” Odongo said.

One of the highlights of this month’s Mug will be the "October Babies" prize category, where golfers born in October will have the chance to compete for a special award.

A golfer prepares to tee off at Nyanza Golf Club. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

This unique addition to the tournament has generated excitement among participants, adding a personal touch to the competition.

As the tournament approaches, excitement is building among Nyanza Golf Club members and the wider Kisumu golfing community.

The stunning Lake Victoria backdrop, combined with the competitive spirit of the Mug of the Month, ensures that the October edition will be a memorable event.

With categories for juniors, guests, and seasoned veterans alike, Saturday promises to be a full day of golfing action at one of Kenya’s most picturesque golf courses.