The fourth edition of the Magical Kenya Ladies Open commenced on Thursday at the PGA Baobab course, Vipingo Ridge in Kilifi, with England’s Eleanor Givens, South Africa’s Cara Gorlei, and Ireland’s Lauren Walsh leading the charge with impressive 4-under par 69 scores.
Eleanor, teeing off in the morning, started her round with six birdies on the first nine, balancing out her lone bogey on the par-4 fifth for a front-nine score of 32.
Eleanor encountered challenges on the back nine; however, she maintained her composure and secured a total score of 37 with a birdie on the par-5 11th and consecutive bogeys on the 15th and 16th holes. Reflecting on her performance, Eleanor expressed satisfaction with her strong start and resilience on the challenging course.
Cara, who teed off in the afternoon amidst windier and hotter conditions, delivered a flawless round, carding 36 on the front nine and 33 on the back nine. Her consistent play, highlighted by birdies on the 8th, 10th, 11th, and 13th holes, propelled her to a share of the lead with Eleanor and Lauren.
Meanwhile, Lauren, participating in only her second Ladies European Tour event, showcased her talent with a bogey-free round. Her steady performance, featuring birdies on the 4th, 7th, 11th, and 18th holes, earned her a spot at the top of the leaderboard alongside Eleanor and Cara.
The trio’s stellar display placed them one shot ahead of a three-way tie for second place, featuring Olivia Mehaffey, Alessandra Fanali, and Sofie Kibsgaard Nielsen, all tied at 3-under par 70.
As the tournament progresses, the field faces the challenge of the cut, with only the top 60 players and ties advancing to the next round. Among the Kenyan amateurs, Jacquelyne Walter emerged as the standout performer, finishing the round tied for 40th place with a score of 2-over par 75. Jacquelyne remains in contention for the upcoming rounds, facing tough competition.
Reflecting on her debut in the Magical Kenya Ladies Open, Kenyan amateur Kellie Gachaga expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to represent Kenya. Initially nervous, Kellie remained confident in her preparation and enjoyed her time on the course.
Looking ahead to the next round, players aim to maintain their focus and secure their positions in the prize money bracket. Round two action kicks off on Friday, with Jacquelyne Walter leading the Kenyan contingent in the morning session.
Chanelle Wangari is set to begin her round from the first tee at 12:32 pm, followed by Naomi Wafula, Mercy Nyanchama, and Kellie Wahito Gachaga, who will tee off between 1 pm and 2 pm.
