Sh1 million boost for Gachaga, Kibugu ahead of Junior Open

Kenya’s representatives at the 2016 Junior Open Championship Kellie Gachaga and Kibugu Mutahi on Friday received Sh1 million sponsorship from the government through Sports Kenya.

The money will assist the two juniors participate in this year’s Junior Open Championship to be held at the Kilmarnock (Barassie) Golf Club in Scotland from July 11.

This is the first time that a team representing the country in an international golf event has received financial support from the government.

Speaking at Muthaiga Golf Club before handing over the national flag and the cheque to the two juniors Friday, Sports Principal Secretary Richard Ekai admitted that the government had done very little to support golf unlike other sports disciplines.

“Golf like can develop to the same level as athletics, volleyball and rugby and this is why through Sports Kenya the government will from now support golf teams representing the country in international event,” said Ekai.

Ekai said the government will also reward any sportsperson who wins gold in an international event with Sh1 million, while silver and bronze medallists will get Sh750,000 and Sh500,00 respectively.

Sports Kenya chairman Fred Muteti said there was need for a stakeholders meeting to come up with a blue print to see how golf can be developed further in the country.

“There are a lot of things that need to be ironed out in order for golf to grow through youth development programmes,” said Muteti.

Junior Golf Foundation (JGF) president Gitonga Kabera thanked Sports Kenya for the support.

“This financial support is very much welcome as it will go a long way to assist the two juniors participate in the event,” said Gitonga, who leads Gachaga and Mutahi to Scotland.