By OUR CORRESPONDENT
Haniff Tayebjee emerged victorious with a remarkable score of 75 gross at the 14th leg of the 2023 NCBA Golf Series, hosted at Sigona Golf Club.
Competing in a field of 266 golfers – among them Kenyan pro golfer Mohit Mediratta, the handicapped two players displayed exceptional skill and determination to clinch the overall title of the final Kenyan qualifier event of the 2023 NCBA Golf Series.
He fended off strong competition from Alishaam Merali who also showcased his golfing prowess, claiming the top spot in the men’s category with an impressive score of 77 gross, surpassing Shivam Shah, who secured the second position in the category with a score of 81 gross.
In the ladies’ division, Rachael Ndei shone brightly, achieving a score of 83 gross and securing the top spot. Playing off a handicap of 10, Rachel outperformed Jaini Shah, who took the second position with a score of 89 gross.
Among the junior competitors, Viraj Shah, playing off handicap four, demonstrated exceptional talent to emerge top with a score of 86 gross.
In the Nett categories, Sagar Batt, handicap playing off 22, and Sally Ndemi, playing off handicap 32, claimed victory among the men and ladies, respectively, posting impressive scores of 64 and 71 nett, respectively.
In other results, Krish Shah emerged victorious in the Longest Drive challenge among the men, while Rachael Ndei showcased her skill once more, winning the Longest Drive challenge in the ladies’ category.
Reflecting on her performance, Rachael Ndei stated: “It was a fantastic day on the course. My drives were exceptional, which played a significant role in my victory today. Although my putting wasn’t at its best, I am delighted with my overall performance. I am eagerly looking forward to the Grand Finale, and remain optimistic about my performance at the upcoming tournament. I extend our heartfelt gratitude to NCBA for their sponsorship, which provides us with the opportunity to play and enhance our skills.”
Speaking at the tournament’s prize-giving ceremony, William Muguima, NCBA Group Corporate Business Manager, said: “Today was a remarkable day of golf. We witnessed a remarkable turnout, and the level of golf displayed was truly outstanding, as evident from the final scores. This event marked the last qualifying event of the series in Kenya, with the remaining three legs set to be held in Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania, expanding the series experience beyond our borders.”
“As we conclude the Kenyan qualifiers, we extend our appreciation to the golfing community for their invaluable support. Their support has not only elevated the golfing experience but has also played a pivotal role in fostering the growth of this sport within our community. For that, we are immensely grateful. We eagerly anticipate our return to Sigona for the Grand Finale scheduled for December this year,” he added.
The Series has attracted the participation of over 2,500 golfers since it teed off in March this year. It now moves to the Gymkhana Golf Club in Tanzania later this month, followed by the Kigali Golf Resort & Villas in mid-October, with the final qualifying event on the calendar taking place at the Entebbe Golf Club at the end of October.
The Series Grand Finale will be held in December at the Sigona Golf Club where winners from the respective qualifying events will battle it out for the season’s ultimate crowning. Ends
