Kenyan teenage golfer Jacinta Njeri has set her sights on winning gold at the Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics, scheduled for November 15–26 in Japan.
The Form Two student at Ngala Secondary School for the Deaf in Nakuru County is eager to make her Deaflympics debut a memorable one and hopes to inspire more Deaf women to take up golf.
“Being the first time to be part of the Kenya Deaf team at the Deaflympics and among three men, I am very proud of myself,” said Njeri.
“My target is to play a good round of golf and get a gold medal. I hope all four of us can reach the podium and make Kenya proud.”
“I don’t want to be the only deaf lady golfer in the team, so I’m inviting other ladies to learn golf and feel empowered,” she added.
The 19-year-old, who plays off a handicap of 20, will represent Kenya alongside Isaac Makokha, Gilbert Alikula and Adan Wario.
Makokha made history by winning a bronze medal at the 2022 Deaflympics in Brazil, Kenya’s first in golf.
Njeri is currently training at Railways, Muthaiga, and Vet Lab golf clubs in Nairobi. She credits her teammates for helping sharpen her game and says she is ready for the challenge.
“Although I am still training very hard, I’m well prepared for the task ahead,” said Njeri, who also plays volleyball and basketball.
Introduced to golf in 2022 by Vet Lab pro Shem Orwenyo, Njeri said the sport has helped her grow in confidence.
“I love golf because I get to meet fellow players and relax. I’m a very proud golfer,” she said.
Team Kenya coach David Kihara has tipped Njeri for success in Tokyo.
“Her potential is very high. She’s young, strong, and committed. She has what it takes to be a future champion,” said Kihara.
Confident in his team’s preparation, he added, “I believe we are ready. Some medals are coming.”
