Kenyan junior golfer Shashwat Harish stunned the golfing world during the NCBA Kenya Invitational Tournament, delivering an extraordinary score of 10-under par 206 to clinch victory in the Boys’ 13-14 category.
Shashwat dominated the three-day event held at the Windsor Golf Hotel and Country Club, posting rounds of 70, 70, and an outstanding 66 on the final day.
His performance placed him an incredible 23 strokes ahead of his nearest competitor, Aidan Gachora, who finished second with 13-over par 229.
Shashank Gadre from Uganda and Kenya’s Mwathi Gicheru tied for third place with scores of 14-over par 230.
“The course was in pristine condition, which made it easier for me and the other golfers,” Shashwat said.
“This is my best-ever tournament score. My previous best was par, so I’m very happy with this achievement.”
He added, “It was not easy physically, but I prepared mentally for this tournament. I look forward to more opportunities to improve my game.”
In the Girls’ 15-18 category, Kenya’s Audrey Gachora emerged victorious with a total of 15-over par 231, overcoming stiff competition from compatriots Maryam Mwakitawa (18-over par 234) and Bianca Ngecu (22-over par 238).
“The competition was very tough this year, but I enjoyed playing and posting these results,” said Audrey.
“I’m delighted to top my category and earn World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) points. My goal is to continue improving, lower my handicap, and hopefully turn professional in the future.”
In the Boys’ 15-18 category, Kenya’s Tsevi Soni claimed victory with a total score of 8-over par 224, edging out Uganda’s Anthony Otokei by a single stroke.
Otokei, who posted an impressive second-round 71, finished at 9-over par 225.
Kenya’s Nathan Mwangi and Tanzania’s Dhruv Sanjay Patadia tied for third with scores of 17-over par 233.
In the Girls’ 13-14 division, Brianna Ngecu from Kenya claimed the top spot with 239 strokes (+23), followed by Yolanda Yu (+27) and Uganda’s Harsshitha Loganathan (+35).
Meanwhile, in the Girls’ 11-12 category, Siqian Yu showcased her skill and determination to secure first place with a total of 245 strokes (+29), narrowly edging out Chloe Chiuri and Aria Dodhia, who tied for second at 246 strokes (+30).
The Boys’ 11-year-old category saw Adam Nesbitt deliver an impressive display of talent, finishing first with a score of 228 strokes (+12).
He outperformed South Africa’s Jordan Van Rooyen, who took second place with 250 strokes (+34), and Kenya’s Armaan Chavda, who finished third with 284 strokes (+68).
In the 8-year olds’ boys category, James Macakiage playing 9 holes, finished her round with a total of 5-under par 103, ahead of Ugandan Dante Kawalya who finished on 3-over par 111.
In the Boys’ 7-year-old category, also playing 9 holes, Surya Bongu was in a class of his own, finishing with a remarkable score of 4-under par 104, a testament to his future potential.
The tournament, which attracted 116 junior golfers from ten countries across Asia, Africa, and Europe, served as a critical platform for young golfers to showcase their talent.
It is a key event in the Kenyan Junior Golf Foundation calendar, offering participants the chance to earn Order of Merit points, World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) points, and US Kids Golf Priority Status.
These opportunities provide a gateway to prestigious Major Championships, Regional and International tournaments, and the renowned World Teen Championships.
Speaking at the prize-giving ceremony, Kenya Golf Union Chairman David Ndungu applauded the players and partners.
“This is a sign of the great progress we are witnessing in junior golf in Kenya. Our goal is to see our juniors competing in the Magical Kenya Open. From the scores in this tournament, we are confident this will happen soon,” he said.
Junior Golf Foundation Kenya President Regina Gachora echoed similar sentiments.
“The competition has been excellent, and we’ve seen significant improvements in scores across the categories,” she said.
“Providing these opportunities is crucial for nurturing young talent and raising the standards of golf in the country. We are grateful for the support from NCBA and all our partners in making this year’s tournament a success.”
