Nigeria’s Godwin Okoko claimed the first professional victory of his career after edging the Rift Valley Championship by a single shot at Nakuru Golf Club.
Okoko produced a closing five-under 68 to finish the 54-hole event on 209, overturning overnight pacesetter Edwin Mudanyi during the final round. The tournament marked the eighth stop of the Sunshine Development Tour’s East Africa Swing.
His decisive round featured an eagle at the 16th along with birdies at the third, fourth, sixth, 10th, 11th and 17th. Although he made bogeys on the fifth, eighth and 12th, Okoko maintained his composure down the stretch to secure the title.
The victory earned him Ksh 400,000, approximately $3,081, from a total purse of Ksh 2 million, valued at about $15,407. He also collected 210 Order of Merit points.
“I’m delighted to have won my maiden Sunshine Development Tour title,” Okoko said. “I have put in a lot of work all season, so it is rewarding to see it pay off. The course was demanding, but I remained focused, made the most of my chances and kept battling until the finish.”
Simon Njogu of Kenya’s Golf Park Golf Club took second place at nine under, one shot behind on 210. Njogu made birdies on the fifth, eighth, 10th, 11th and 16th, with his only dropped shots coming at the fourth and 17th. He received Ksh 214,000 and 172 points.
“I am happy with my performance across the three days,” Njogu said. “I created chances and finished well, even though there are a few shots I would want to have again. Congratulations to Godwin for the victory.”
Mudanyi, who began the day in front, ended third on six-under-par 213. A difficult opening saw him bogey the first, third and fourth before a birdie at the sixth helped settle his round. He added two birdies on the inward nine, but back-to-back bogeys at the 14th and 15th halted his bid for the championship.
“It was a tough day, particularly early on, but I tried to remain in contention and battle my way back,” Mudanyi said.
“It hurts not to win after getting myself into such a strong position, although there are still plenty of positives from the week.”
Dismas Indiza placed fourth with a 214 total, while Muthaiga Golf Club’s Greg Snow was fifth on four-under 215. John Kagiri completed the top six at one under par, with a score of 218.
Sponsored by NCBA Bank, the tournament featured professional players and leading amateurs from around the region. Its Order of Merit points contribute towards advancement to the main Sunshine Tour, while professionals could also earn Official World Golf Ranking points and eligible amateurs had World Amateur Golf Ranking points available.
Okoko will now head back to Nigeria for the Alpha Bravo Golf Classic, scheduled for November 18-21 at Lakowe Lakes Golf Estate. “This win gives me great confidence heading into the next tournament at home,” he said.
