-The Tournament grace by ICEA LION group CEO Philip Lopokoiyit is the 9th Edition of the ongoing LION King of the Course Series after resounding success of earlier legs in Machakos, Thika Greens, Ruiru and Nanyuki.
-Now all roads lead to Nyali Golf and Country Club in Mombasa on 25th, October for this year’s Series Grand Finale.
MAARUFU MOHAMED-GOLFNEWSLINKS.
Home Golfer Michael Kotu produced a brilliant count back score of 41 stable ford points to emerge the overall winner in this year’s 9th Edition of the ongoing ICEA LION King of the Course Golf Series played at the world-class 9-hole par 72 Nandi Bears Golf Club Course located in the scenic highlands of Nandi Hills in Rift Valley on Saturday.
“Iam indeed thrilled to have won this tournament and also happy for the series to be staged here and I hope all of us enjoyed. Playing today was just a normal game driving my shot swings to the right way and putting well as we enjoyed the course with team flight. I shall continue to work more on the range and the greens to up my game in preparations for the next assignment, “said Kotu.
The tournament that brought together an estimated 150 Golfers saw Kotu survive on account back score to claim the lead after tying with runners up placed Vincent Rugut.
Irene Booker brought a count back score of 38 points to win the division 1 prize tying on the same points with the runners up placed Daniel Muge while Boaz Katah was third on 33 points and Ian Kigen played 28 points to win the Junior prize.
The tournament that also featured some additional 30 golfers from Machakos, Thika, Greens, Ruiru, and Nanyuki Golf Clubs, saw Simon Chepkwony claim the nearest to the pin prize as Kimeli Mutai and Natalie Metto emerged the longest drive men and lady winners respectively.
Earlier on Friday, the ICEA LION group Curtain-raiser Special Clubnite tournament was staged at Kericho Golf Club where handicap 27 Zachary Kibaliach emerged the overall winner on 35 points.
Other winners were, Runner up-Dr. Kenneth Sigilai (21)-34 points, Gross winner-Tej Bachu (5)-83 gross, Men winner-Benard Cheruiyot (26)-33 points, Lady winner-Debora Koske (34)-33 points, Division 1 winner-Kibet Too (12)-33 points, Division 2 winner-Nicholas Tonui (23)-33 points, Division 3 winner-Kiplangat Leonard 48)-37 points, Guest winner-Mark Makau (16)-31 points, Staff winner-Peter Mukuria (31)-24 Points, First nine winner-Ben Rotich (16)-18 points, Second nine winner-David Biegon (9)-20 points, Longest drive man winner-David Biegon (9), Longest drive lady winner-Consolata Mueni, nearest to pin winner-Enock Kimeu (12) and the Best effort winner-Fr. Mwaura (15)-20 points.
This series followed the resounding success of earlier legs in Machakos, Thika Greens, Ruiru and Nanyuki.
ICEA LION group Chief Executive Officer Philip Lopokoiyit who also graced the occasion said it was a great pleasure to welcome all the Golfers that marked the beginning of the 9th Edition of the ICEA LION King of the Course 2024 Golf Series in the Rift Valley region.
“The events are particularly special as we are still in a celebratory mood, commemorating 60 years of excellence and partnership. While our history dates back to 1895, this year marks six decades since the establishment of our life business in 1964. This milestone is a testament to our growth, innovation, resilience, and legacy. More importantly, it reflects the trust our valued customers and partners have placed in us over the years, ICEA LION’s 60 years of Legacy and Trust, “said Lopokoiyit.
He pointed out that following the tremendous success of previous tournaments in Machakos, Thika Greens, Ruiru, and Nanyuki, he extended his heartfelt appreciation to the teams representing these clubs.
“Your dedication and support for the ICEA LION King of the Course Golf Series, both as passionate golfers and esteemed clients, do not go unnoticed, we sincerely appreciate you. I would also like to thank the organizers, the managements of Kericho and Nandi bears Golf Clubs, and our incredible players, friends, and clients. Your commitment to Golf, Sportsmanship, and Community spirit makes this event truly special. The ICEA LION Group is proud to return to Reift Valley reinforcing our commitment to excellence and community values,”said Lopokoiyit.
On ICEA LION Initiatives he noted, “Our focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives remains a cornerstone of our corporate values. We firmly believe that responsible business practices not only enhance our operations but also create a lasting positive impact within the communities we serve.
In our pursuit of environmental stewardship, we launched the ICEA LION Tree Seedling Nursery at our Riverside Park headquarters in Nairobi. This initiative aligns with the Kenyan government’s mission to increase forest cover and demonstrates our commitment to climate action and sustainability.
Our ultimate goal is to plant one million trees, and we are actively involved in projects that engage both our staff and local communities. For instance, we have an upcoming tree planting event at Ruiru Sports Club, in collaboration with the golfing community, where we aim to plant over 1,000 trees in the coming weeks. These efforts solidify our commitment to making a meaningful difference in both environmental conservation and social impact. Each tree planted is a step toward a greener future, enriching our environment and leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come,” noted the CEO.
Lopokoiyot in closing extended his heartfelt appreciation to each of the players for joining them in the series and noted that their presence not only makes this event special but also strengthens the bonds of the vibrant Golfing community.
“Let’s continue striving for greatness, supporting one another, and enjoying the game that brings us together. With these few remarks, I invite you all to engage in lively discussions, immerse yourselves in the adventurous spirit of the Rift Valley, and relish the lush green rolling hills of this beautiful highland region. We’re greatly honored to have you here, and congratulations to the winners, “said Lopokoiyit.
After the Nandi Bears Leg, all roads will lead to Nyali Golf and Country Club in Mombasa on 25th, October for this year’s Grand Finale.
The top winner from each Club will battle it out for the annual prize of a trip to participate in the Lekoa Classic 2026 Golf tournament to be held in South Africa.
ENDS.
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