Nathwani retains Arusha Open
ARUSHA: DEFENDING Champion Jay Nathwani successfully retained the Reliance Insurance Arusha Open title after producing another composed performance to win the prestigious 2026 championship at the Arusha Gymkhana Club (AGC) over the weekend.
Nathwani completed the demanding three-round championship with a total gross score of 223 (+7) after returning consistent rounds of 74, 74 and 75, becoming the first player in recent years to claim backto-back Arusha Open titles.
His victory capped another memorable edition of one of Tanzania’s premier amateur golf tournaments, which was organised by AGC in collaboration with the Tanzania Golf Union (TGU).
The championship attracted many of the country’s top amateur golfers, all competing not only for silverware but also for valuable World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) points.
Christopher Botha also of AGC finished as the gross runner-up on 226 after rounds of 77, 77 and an impressive final-round 72, producing the best score among the leading contenders on the closing day.
Botha’s excellent finish reduced the deficit but ultimately came too late to deny Nathwani another championship.
National team golfer, Isiaka Dunia, of TPDF Lugalo Golf Club of Dar es Salaam claimed third place with a total of 227, carding rounds of 78, 72 and 77.
Dunia had surged into contention after an excellent second-round 72 but was unable to match Nathwani’s consistency during the decisive final round.
In Division A nett, Richard Gomes emerged victorious with a total score of 218, edging Jaques Botha, who finished runner-up on 219 after another closely contested battle.
The subsidiary event, played over two rounds, also produced exciting competition across various divisions.
In Division B, Mark Walker claimed victory after finishing level with Muzaffar Yusufali on 145, with Walker prevailing on countback.
Bob Shuma lifted the Division C title after returning 146, while Niraj Vaghela secured the runner-up position on 149.
Sponsored by Reliance Insurance Company (Tanzania) Limited, the tournament also showcased the growing strength of junior golf in Tanzania.
Promising youngster Joshua Wanyeche claimed the junior title with an impressive score of 181, underlining the continued progress of the country’s emerging golfing talent.
In the ladies’ competition, Neema Olomi produced a strong display to win the title on 149, finishing three strokes ahead of Adrie Brown, who settled for second place on 152.
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The senior golfers also demonstrated an enduring quality, with Murad Jivan securing the seniors’ title after carding 152.
Felix Mrema claimed the Day One honours after an outstanding round of 67 nett, while Cyril Brown won the Day Two prize following an excellent 72.
