Nairobi: The Sunshine Development Tour (SDT) East Africa Swing has been hailed for creating clear and credible pathways for professional golfers across Africa while strengthening Kenya’s position as a regional golf hub. Speaking during the closing ceremony in Nairobi, the Sunshine Development Tour East Africa Swing Tour promoter Charles Gacheru praised the collective effort that made the tour possible.
According to Kenya News Agency, Gacheru expressed gratitude to the professionals who invested their own resources to participate, emphasizing the importance of player attendance for the success of such events. He also urged sponsors and corporate partners to support individual golfers, highlighting the financial challenges faced by players despite the backing of events like the Magical Kenya Open.
Gacheru further emphasized the productive collaboration between the Sunshine Development Tour and the Sunshine Tour of South Africa, which has opened up significant opportunities for African players. He cited examples of players like Njoroge, Ronald Rugumayo, Celestin Nsanzuwera, and Naomi Wafula who have benefited from this partnership.
Patrick Obath, Chairman of Kenya Open Golf Limited, highlighted the strategic significance of the East Africa Swing, noting that a recognition agreement with the Sunshine Development Tour has allowed points from the tour to contribute to the selection of professionals for the Magical Kenya Open. He acknowledged the positive impact of the partnership over the past year.
Philip Ocholla, Chairman of the Kenya Golf Federation, described the Tour as a crucial component of Kenya’s long-term golf development, connecting junior, amateur, and professional levels. He praised IMG Kenya and the Sunshine Tour for expanding competitive opportunities, which have prepared local players for events like the Magical Kenya Open.
National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOCK) President Shadrack Maluki reiterated the committee’s dedication to transforming sports in Kenya, with golf playing a significant role. He emphasized the importance of collaboration across federations to ensure sustained success and the development of all sports talents in the country.
The inaugural Sunshine Development Tour East Africa Swing featured ten tournaments across East Africa, drawing over 220 players from the continent and establishing a unique mixed-field professional tour in the region. Njoroge Kibugu emerged as the Order of Merit champion, with Celestin Nsanzuwera and Dismas Indiza completing the top three in the rankings.
