The prestigious Magical Kenya Open Golf Championship and Magical Kenya Ladies Open, according to Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba, will continue to promote sports development nationwide and establish Kenya as a worldwide brand.
Speaking on Wednesday at the simultaneous launch of the two championships that will take place in Nairobi and Kilifi counties this month, respectively, Namwamba said that the Magical Open organizers' decision to offer Kenya the chance to host the competition for a third consecutive year was a show of confidence.
The Kenya Open Golf Limited has announced that the Magical Kenya Open will take place from February 22–25, 2024, at the historic Muthaiga Golf Club. Meanwhile, the Ladies Open, which will take place from February 8–11 at the 18-hole Baobab Course in Vipingo Ridge, will feature a special tournament for individuals with disabilities.
"We are very happy about these two tournaments because they add value to our sports ecosystem. This is an opportunity to welcome the world to Kenya, " said Namwamba.
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"I call upon corporate friends and brands to invest not just in golf but sports in general," he added, revealing that the government will fully sponsor the tournament alongside Absa, Safaricom, Toyota Kenya, and DP World Tour.
According to Patrick Obath, the Magical Kenya Open tournament director, the prize money has increased for this year. The winners of the Magical Kenya Open will take home Sh 347 million, while the Magical Kenya Ladies Open will receive Sh 52 million at the Park 73 Vipingo Course.
"What makes this tournament more remarkable is the increase in prize money and the participants. Kenya will be represented by 14 golfers, 8 being professionals and the remaining six amateurs.
"Additionally, for the first time two of the participants are persons with disabilities, something which speaks volumes about the sport's diversity and inclusivity."
Five local women golfers have qualified for this year's ladies' event in Vipingo from February 8 to February 11. A total of 120 players have confirmed their participation thus far.
