NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 6 – Chinese pro golfer Ashun Wu fired 6 under par 65 to win the 2022 Magical Kenya Open before an enthusiastic crowd led by President Uhuru Kenyatta at the Muthaiga Golf Club.
He became the first Chinese player to win the international event, over and above the first Asian winner. For the win he pocketed Ksh 36.3 million. (€291,660).
The Chinese pro also enjoyed his fourth DP World Tour victory in his 158th appearance at the par 71 Muthaiga Golf Club.
His win followed back-to-back birdies on the par 4 17th and par 5 18th.
Sunday’s performance handed Wu his sixth professional victory, having won twice on the Japan Golf Tour
And his stellar play on Kenya soil gave the indefatigable Chinese emphatic DP World Tour wins on three continents in Asia (Volvo China Open), Europe (Lyoness Open) and Africa (Magical Kenya Open)
Wu, who made his debut in Kenya at the 2022 edition of the Kenya Open had become a father for the first time 13 weeks ago.
He had the support of his wife and child who were present to witness his fairy tale win at the “Home of Golf” in Muthaiga
For his wins at the Volvo China Open and Austrian Open, Wu also entered the final round in second position and pulled through in the final round.
Hurly Long of Germany, South African T. Lawrence and Canadian Aaron Cockerill tied for second on 12 under.
A total of 156 players took part in the event where Kenya was represented by 9 pros and six amateurs.
Teenager Njoroge Kibugu was the sole Kenya to make the cut in the four-day Strokeplay championship.
LEADERBOARD
1 China) A. Wu -16
T2 (Germany) H. Long -12
T2 (Canad)a A. Cockerill -12
T2 (South Africa) T. Lawrence -12
5 (England) D. Horsey –11
T6( France) M. Pavon -10
T6 (England) D. Gavins -10
T8( Spain A. Arnaus -9
T8 (Wales) S. Manley -4 F -9
T8 (South Africa) O. Bekker -9
T8 (Sweden) M. Kinhult -9
T8 Scotland) E. Ferguson -9
64 (Kenya) N. Kibugu +6 F +2
