Indiza beats Mudanyi in dramatic playoff to win Kabete Challenge title

Kakamega Sports Club veteran professional Dismas Indiza claimed his second Sunshine Development Tour title during the Kabete Challenge at VetLab Sports Club on Tuesday.

He edged out Karen Country Club's Edwin Mudanyi in a dramatic sudden-death playoff.

The duo finished regulation play tied on 3-under par 213, forcing a playoff after an enthralling final round that saw both players trade blows in pursuit of the title.

Indiza, who began the day tied for the lead alongside Mudanyi and Michael Karanga, carded a composed 2-under par 70. His round featured birdies on the 4th, 5th, 17th, and 18th holes, while bogeys on the 2nd and 7th threatened to derail his charge.

Indiza’s resilience proved decisive as he birdied the 18th hole to post the clubhouse lead and pile pressure on Mudanyi in the final group.

Indiza said: "I'm very happy with the win. It wasn't easy because the competition was very strong, and Edwin played really well today. I stayed patient, trusted my experience, and kept fighting until the last hole. Making that birdie on 18 gave me a chance, and once we got into the playoff, I knew I just had to stay focused and give myself an opportunity.”

Mudanyi looked poised to secure the title after leading for much of the day.

He produced a steady round highlighted by birdies on the 1st, 7th and 10th holes, with his only dropped shot coming on the 3rd as he also signed for a 2-under par 70.

Heading to the 18th hole, Mudanyi held a one-shot advantage and appeared set to seal victory.

However, a par on the closing hole, coupled with Indiza's birdie moments earlier, saw the pair finish tied and head into a playoff where Indiza eventually emerged victorious.

Mudanyi said after the round: "It's disappointing to come so close and not get the win, but that's golf. I played solidly throughout the week and gave myself a chance. There are plenty of positives to take from this performance and I'll use it as motivation going into the next events on the Tour."

Indiza pocketed Sh300,000 from the tournament's KES 1.5 million prize purse, while Mudanyi earned Sh160,500 for his runner-up finish.

Finishing third was elite amateur Adel Balala of Nyali Golf  and  Country Club, who carded a tournament total of 2-under par 214. 

Newly turned professional Michael Karanga continued his impressive start to life in the paid ranks, finishing fourth on 1-under par 215.

The Kabete Challenge attracted 67 players from 10 countries, including professionals, amateurs, and junior golfers from across East Africa and beyond.