Seventy-two golfers from nine golf clubs will tee off during the 99th edition of the Tannahill Shield this weekend at the Royal Nairobi Golf Club.
The Tannahill Shield, a beacon of interclub excellence, beckons aficionados from Karen County Club, Kenya Railways Golf Club, Limuru County Club, Mombasa Golf Club, Muthaiga Golf Club, Royal Nairobi, Sigona Golf Club, Vet Lab Golf Club, and Western Kenya.
Club Captain Richard Owino has anticipated a good event and rallied fans to flock to the ground and rally behind their favourite golfers.
"As the tournament swings into action tomorrow, nine teams will compete in a thrilling three-way foursome match. Let's pack the greens with our cheers and if the weather gods smile upon us, brace for an unforgettable spectacle," Owino enthused.
The event received a Sh1.5 million boost from JTL Telecommunication. JTL's director of strategy, Cyrus Sang, emphasised their dedication to fostering golfing prowess across the nation.
"We take pride in bolstering amateur and professional golfers alike. This tournament epitomises our pledge to enrich the golfing landscape in the country."
Team manager Tom Muchina stated, “Royal team Simba is ready. We have been preparing since January. We had a criteria for choosing this year’s team and we believe this year we have a very strong team.”
The members of the team were selected according to the number of rounds each individual had played in the last six months as well as their performance.
The number of national golf events played is also a key factor as well as the players' discipline.
While acknowledging the daunting challenge posed by defending champions Muthaiga, Muchina vowed Royal's ferocity. "The title race will be fierce, but we're ready to seize the moment."
Ahead of the main event, Muthaiga asserted their dominance by clinching the Senior Golf title on Tuesday with a formidable gross score of 496.
Royal posted a total of 518 gross while Railways were third with 521 gross. Karen Club completed the top four places with 530 gross.
Pro golfer Jeff Kubwa noted, “The course is in very good condition. We have been working a lot on the drainages in case the rains come down. I am sure the course will be playable.”
Looking ahead to the centenary edition, captain Owino hinted at grandeur, with plans to extend invitations to esteemed clubs worldwide.
"As we march towards our centenary milestone, we envision a global celebration. Discussions with JTL are underway, and we're poised to elevate the tournament to unprecedented heights."
