By KPC Sports Reporter
Rwanda’s Celestin Nsanzuwera held his nerve in a dramatic final stretch to clinch victory in the opening leg of the Sunshine Development Tour – East Africa Swing, which wrapped up after three days at Thika Sports Club.
The Kigali Golf Resort professional, who began the final round at the top of the leaderboard, carded a level-par finish to close on 4-under par 209, sealing the title by a single stroke and marking a strong start to the new season.
Nsanzuwera appeared firmly in control for much of the round, producing a composed performance highlighted by birdies on the 1st, 7th, 8th, 13th and 15th holes. At one point, he had built a comfortable four-shot lead heading into the closing stretch.
However, the tournament took a dramatic turn over the final three holes. A bogey on the 16th, followed by a costly double-bogey on the 17th and another bogey on the 18th, saw his lead nearly slip away.
Despite the late stumble, Nsanzuwera held on.
“I’m very happy to win the first tournament of the season. It was not easy today because there was pressure, especially over the closing holes, but I stayed focused and trusted myself,” he said after lifting the trophy.
“Winning early in the season gives me confidence and momentum. My goal now is to keep working hard and remain consistent in the coming events.”
For his efforts, Nsanzuwera walked away with KSh 400,000 from the KSh 2 million prize purse and 210 Order of Merit points, setting the early pace in the standings.
Kenya’s Samuel Njoroge and newly turned professional Michael Karanga shared second place at 3-under par 210, just one shot shy of forcing a playoff.
Njoroge, who led after the opening round, mounted a strong challenge with a closing 3-under par 68. “I gave it a good push today and I’m pleased with how I responded. I stayed patient, made some birdies and gave myself a chance,” he said.
Karanga, meanwhile, impressed in his professional debut. “To finish on the podium in my first event as a professional means a lot. It gives me belief that I can compete at this level,” he noted.
Mohit Medirrata finished fourth on 1-over par, while Greg Snow of Muthaiga Golf Club placed sixth on 2-over.
The tour now heads to Royal Nairobi Golf Club in June for the next leg, as the race for Sunshine Tour progression gathers pace.