Golf: Veteran Esmail defies odds to clinch Clubnite Cup

Veteran Jolly Esmail, 73, surprised a competitive group of 206 golfers by clinching the Clubnite event sponsored by Murdoch University at Sigona Golf Club in Nairobi on Wednesday. 

It was a double celebration, as he accomplished this on his birthday, playing at the same course where he has enjoyed golf for the past 43 years. 

Competing with a handicap of 23, Esmail seemed to have the favor of the golfing gods; everything appeared to align perfectly during his round, leading to a winning score of 42 stableford points. 

"Commemorating my 73rd birthday at Sigona Golf Club, where I've played for 42 years, truly made this day unforgettable.

“With a touch of luck and my experience, I achieved a win that enhanced the joy of my milestone," Esmail remarked. 

The tournament is organized by Iniserve, a student placement agency offering complimentary guidance to students aspiring to study abroad, especially in the UK, US, Australia, and Canada, with industry-recognized degrees accredited by both local and international institutions to boost employability in Australia and in places like Kenya. 

"Murdoch University provides industry-recognized degrees that prepare students for quality jobs and are accredited by local and global institutions, enabling graduates to pursue opportunities in countries such as Kenya," explained Rahim Kassam, Chief Executive at Uniserve Education. 

Following Esmail in the standings was amateur Jitesh Shah, playing off a handicap of 21, who recorded 41 stableford points, edging out Kuldip Devgun, who also scored 41 stableford points, on countback to take third place. 

Scratch golfer Junaid Manji shone as he returned 71 Gross points, earning the Gross prize. 

In Division Two, Pankaj Patel topped the leaderboard with a score of 42 stableford points. 

Leading the visiting golfers was Fredrick Kuria, who achieved a score of 38 stableford points. 

Mary Waqo and Shaneil Haria each scored 22 stableford points to win the Nines. 

Jitu Shah celebrated his third career hole-in-one on the par-three third hole after hitting a precise seven-iron, which cost him a few shillings when he rang the bell to treat everyone present to a drink in honor of this rare achievement.