Amateur Golfer Michael Karanga named SJAK player of the month

Kenyan Amatuture Golfer Michael Karanga pose with the trophy after being awarded the LG_SJAK Player of the Month November. [SJAK]

Golfer Michael Karanga has been awarded the prestigious LG/Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) Sports Personality of the Month (SPOM) for November 2024.

The award recognises outstanding achievements by Kenyan sports personalities and has honoured numerous athletes over the past decade.

Karanga earned this accolade following his stellar performance on the greens, highlighted by his successful defense of the Kenya Amateur Golf Championships (KAGC) title.

This victory was cemented by his November triumph in the Kiambu Open at his home ground, the Kiambu Golf Club, in November, which secured his overall KAGC crown and guaranteed his participation in the 2025 Magical Kenya Open as Kenya’s leading amateur golfer.

Earlier in November, Karanga also defended the Manchester Salver title in Eldoret, showcasing his consistency despite narrowly missing his course record from the previous year.

He has so far won nine titles from 17 competitions this year, clinching the coveted KAGC title and automatic qualification for the Magical Kenya Open.

In addition to his accomplishments, Karanga played a pivotal role in Team Kenya’s successful defense of the Africa Region IV Golf Tournament, held at the Kigali Golf Resort and Villas in Rwanda.

LG Electronics Managing Director for East Africa, Dongwon Lee, lauded Karanga’s achievements, describing him as a ‘national inspiration’.

“His commitment to the sport and consistency are unmatched, and we are honored to award him this month. We know that it will not be too long before he is shining on the global stage,” he said.

His sentiments were echoed by SJAK Secretary General Moses Wakhisi, who praised Karanga for his dedication and called upon him to continue inspiring young athletes in Kenya.

“Karanga has demonstrated what discipline and hard work can achieve, and we hope his journey will motivate upcoming golfers to aim higher and put Kenya on the global sporting map,” Wakhisi said.

Karanga faced stiff competition for the award from Sheila Chepkurui, the 2024 New York Marathon champion who claimed her first major marathon win in 2:24:35; Mercy Kerubo and Ian Okinyi, whose contributions helped Kenya top the junior weightlifting standings and win the Africa title.