They say that the perfect way to stay happy is to indulge in a sport and this holds true for the Kenyans. As GEC Open 2016 made its way to Kenya for the first time, the country opened its doors and welcomed this tournament with a great delight and an overwhelming participation of 117 players.
Africa’s number one golf course Windsor Golf Hotel and Country Club, Nairobi was chosen by GEC Open for this premium golf tournament which was held on 30th September 2016. The event was a blend of amateur as well as professional golfers battling their way to qualify for the final round to be held in Dubai, UAE.
The tournament was attended by significant individuals from Nairobi who applauded and praised the idea of networking combined with a fun filled day of golf.
Muchau Githiaka, Chairman of Kenya Golf Union said, ” We are happy that GEC Open chose Kenya for the event. I hope this relationship continues and may GEC Open 2017 be much bigger. My good wishes to the entire team.”
The winners of GEC Open Kenya edition were; Longest Drive- Mr Tom Simba, nearest to the pin- Mr. Simon Njuguna, third place went to Mr. Chand Shah (38pts), Second place was given to Mr. J Otuke (40pts) and the winner for GEC Open Kenya round was Mr. Elisha Amandi (40pts). The winner was decided by count back to 9.
Dr Auma Obama, Director of Sauti Kuu Foundation and also the winner of GEC Excellence Award complimented the idea of a golf tournament and said, ” I am so thankful to the team for inviting me for this event, I thoroughly enjoyed myself playing golf and I’m looking forward to the next GEC Open as well. It was a surprise for me when I was told I am receiving GEC Excellence Award. I am honoured for getting this award and I will continue working hard and doing whatever I can for the society.”
The winners of GEC Excellence Awards were;
Dr. Auma Obama | Director, Sauti Kuu Foundation |
Mr. Darshan Chandaria | CEO, Chandaria Industries Ltd |
Ms. Koki Mutungi | 1st Female African Pilot for Boeing Dreamliner |
Mr. Bob Collymore | CEO, Safaricom |
Mr. James Mworia | CEO, Centum Investments |
Ms. Salima Visram | CEO, Soular Backpack |
Mr. Ronald Karauri | CEO, Sportspesa |
The local partners for GEC Open- Kenya 2016 were; Sports Connect Africa, Exuviance, Beverage Partner – WoW Beverages (Macallan Whisky), SEA Inc – Media and marketing partner, Watts Up Magazine, Nairobi County Government, Marketing Africa, 98.4 Capital FM and Arrix Media.