The Kabete Challenge, the third leg of the Sunshine Development Tour – East Africa Swing, is headed for a tense finale after a tightly contested second round at VetLab Sports Club produced a three-way tie at the top.
Michael Karanga of Ndumberi Golf Club, veteran professional Dismas Indiza, and Edwin Mudanyi of Karen Country Club all finished on 1-under par 143 to share the lead heading into Tuesday’s decisive round, with KES 1.5 million in prize money on the line.
Karanga continued to impress in his debut professional season with a second-round 71, mixing five birdies against four bogeys.
He said staying patient has been key as he prepares for a pressure-packed final round.
“I’m happy to be in contention heading into the final round. The course is demanding, but I’ve stayed patient and trusted my game,” said Karanga.
“Tomorrow will be about keeping the same mindset and giving myself a chance down the stretch.”
Indiza delivered one of the standout performances of the day with a 3-under 69, bouncing back strongly from his opening round.
His aggressive play earned him five birdies and moved him firmly into title contention.
“I played much better today and managed to capitalize on a few opportunities,” said Indiza.
“It’s always good to be in the mix going into the final day.”
Mudanyi matched the leaders after a composed 71 that featured three birdies.
Despite a couple of late bogeys, he remained upbeat about his chances.
“It was a solid day overall. I kept myself in position and remained patient when things got tough,” he said.
Just one shot back on level-par 144 are VetLab’s Robinson Owiti and Nyali Golf & Country Club amateur Adel Balala, keeping the pressure firmly on the leading trio.
Owiti carded a round of 1-under par 71, while Balala battled to a level-par round to remain firmly in the hunt for the title.
Further down the leaderboard, Samuel Njoroge Chege and Taimur Malik sit tied sixth on 145, while Nigerian pair Godwin Okoko and Sunday Olapade are tied eighth on 146.
A total of 30 players and ties made the cut and will compete in the final round, with OWGR, WAGR, and Sunshine Development Tour Order of Merit points also at stake.
With just a single shot separating the top three from the chasing pack, the Kabete Challenge is set for a dramatic finish as the East Africa Swing continues to deliver high-stakes competition under the Sunshine Development Tour.