Eaton, Iddy battle through tough first round at E.A Golf Swing

KENYA: TANZANIA’S top female golfers made their presence felt on the opening day of the East Africa Golf Swing, a key stop in the Sunshine Tour Development Tournament that teed off Monday at the prestigious par-72 Royal Nairobi Golf Club in Kenya.

The 54-hole, three-day tournament brings together a blend of emerging and elite talent from across East and Central Africa.

Leading the Tanzanian charge is Angel Eaton, the country’s only female professional golfer. Eaton wrapped up the first round with a score of +6, tying for 40th overall and ranking 30th in the professional category.

Despite a challenging start, her continued presence among the pros remains an inspiration for aspiring female golfers across the region. In the amateur category, Madina Iddy also flew the Tanzanian flag high, finishing the first round at +11.

Although tied for 66th place, the former national ladies’ team member showed flashes of brilliance on a demanding course that tested even the most seasoned players.

The tournament, part of the Sunshine Tour’s development initiative, is a vital platform aimed at nurturing golf talent across the region.

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A strong field of professionals and elite amateurs is battling for top honours, and the opening round ended with a four-way tie at the top of the leaderboard at -2 (70) gross.

This lead is shared by Kenyans Rizwan Charania, Njoroge Kibugu, John Lejirma (amateur) and Ugandan Gaita Tadeo Rodell.

Four other players sit tied for fifth at one-under-par (-1), including Kenyan Mutahi Kibugu, former Kenyan ladies’ team star Naomi Wafula, Erick Ooko Obura and Uganda’s Grace Kasango.

As the tournament heads into its second day, all eyes will be on Eaton and Iddy to improve their standings and build momentum heading into the final round. The event concludes today, with hefty cash prizes awaiting the winners.