History was made at the foot of Mt. Kenya when Michael Karanga captured the first NCBA Nanyuki Open title at the Nanyuki Sports Club.

The tournament, which welcomed 74 elite amateurs capped at a 13.5 handicap, offered a mix of competitive golf and a vibrant community atmosphere.

Karanga, ranked 70th in the World Amateur Golf Rankings, maintained a steady hand and sharp form throughout the contest.

His rivals, John Lejirma, Elvis Muigua, and Ebill Omollo, pushed him hard, but the champion’s composure carried him across the finish.

At stake was a Sh500,000 prize fund, underscoring the event’s growing importance within the Kenya Amateur Golf Championship (KAGC) series.

Spectators found more than just golf on display.

The club’s demanding course, its sweeping scenery, and its warm hospitality framed a weekend that blended sport and culture in equal measure.

The prize-giving ceremony also served as a platform for the Kenya Golf Union (KGU) to announce the squad heading to the Africa Region IV Championship in Antananarivo, Madagascar, from November 25 to 29, 2025.

Leading the side will be captain John Lejirma, currently ranked 74th globally and a seven-time KAGC winner this season.

He will be joined by Karanga, fresh from his latest triumph and already qualified for the 2026 Magical Kenya Open, along with three-time 2025 winner Elvis Muigua, ranked 418th, and rising junior Junaid Ayaz Manji, ranked 822nd with two victories this year.

The three senior players were central to Kenya’s success in Kigali last season.

With Manji now reinforcing the team, and Coach Saleem Haji at the helm, expectations are high for another strong performance.

During the announcement, the KGU Chairman stressed the strength of the selected side, remarking.

“This team reflects the strength and depth of Kenyan golf at both senior and junior levels. We are confident they will rise to the occasion and bring the trophy back home,” the Chairman stated.

Karanga, who celebrated both his maiden Nanyuki Open win and his return to national duty, spoke of his pride.

“Winning the inaugural NCBA Nanyuki Open is a proud moment. I’m equally honoured to represent Kenya once again, and we are determined to make the country proud in Madagascar,” Karanga said.

With the successful debut of the NCBA Nanyuki Open, organisers from NCBA Group and the Kenya Golf Union appear set on making it a permanent stop on the KAGC circuit, one that could nurture even more talent and elevate Kenya’s standing in amateur golf across the region.