NAIROBI, Kenya, March 28 – The Royal Nairobi Golf Club (RNGC) is buzzing with anticipation and determination ahead of the 99th edition of the prestigious Tannahill Shield.
The tournament, set to commence on Good Friday, has the RNGC captain Richard Owino and his team brimming with confidence, aiming to reclaim the title they lost last year to Sigona Golf Club.
Owino was quick to add that the tournament also seeks to foster friendship and honor the spirit of the game that has long been the foundation of the historic event.
The captain emphasized that the Tannahill Shield is an invitational competition played for passion, not prize money.
“We expect nine teams, two from outside Nairobi, and the rest are local. With about 72 players participating, we aim to win and we hope to achieve some friendship,” he stated.
Speaking at the same time, RNCG team manager Tom Muchina shared his confidence in his charges, noting the rigorous selection criteria based on skill, discipline, and performance.
“We believe this year we have a very strong team, and we are up to the task. As the most decorated club and the host, RNGC is certain that competition will be fierce but we are ready to rise to the challenge ,” Muchina said.
The team manager also acknowledged the potential for improvement in support for the sport, calling for greater backing from the government and other sectors.
The club has been diligently practicing since January, with the team looking solid and ready to go out “guns blazing.”
The essence of the tournament is rooted in friendship, over financial incentives, offering a shield and mugs to the victors instead of cash prizes.
Everything in place
Jeff Kubwa, the head pro golfer at RNGC, assured that the course is in excellent condition, ready to welcome the tournament.
The club has taken measures to ensure the course remains playable throughout the event, even in the event of rain.
“I also think the rains came at a good time, just to help us maintain the course and make it even better. So I think the course will be playable throughout,” Kubwa said.
He also extended an invitation to spectators, promising a fantastic golfing experience both on and off the course.
This year’s event has been energized by a generous Ksh 1.5 million sponsorship from Jamii Telecom, with the company’s Director of Strategy Silas Sang voicing his support for the club’s triumph.
Moreover, the club is already working with JTL to ensure the success of the upcoming 100th edition.
As one of the most esteemed amateur golf events in sub-Saharan Africa, the Tannahill Shield will see top amateur players from nine teams across Nairobi, Mombasa, and the Western region vie for the prized shield.
This year’s lineup includes the Royal Nairobi Golf Club, Muthaiga Country Club, Karen Country Club, Vetlab Sports Club, Railway Golf Club, Western Kenya, Mombasa Golf Club, Limuru Country Club, and the reigning champions, Sigona Golf Club.
The main event, spanning from Good Friday to Easter Sunday, promises to be a showcase of skill and sportsmanship in the world of amateur golf.
