Kenya’s top amateur golfers are set for an exciting new chapter as the Kenya Golf Union (KGU) launches the Kenya Swing Tournaments next weekend.

The event, which is a three-part series, is poised to decide coveted slots for the 2026 Magical Kenya Open (MKO) and elevate the country’s profile as a premier golfing destination.

A strong group of amateurs competes for the Coast Open, also known as the Barry Cup title, this weekend at the Mombasa Sports Club – Front Course, then afterwards take part in the Swing Tournaments, set to begin next weekend.

The series of three events will kick off with the 12th edition of the Kabete Open, which was postponed in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Defending champion Adel Balala achieved a remarkable hat-trick last year, winning the tournament consecutively in 2021, 2022, and again in 2024.

The event will be limited to 156 players with a verifiable World Handicap System (WHS) Index of 15.0 or lower by the close of entries, scheduled for July 18-20, 2025, at the Vet Lab Sports Club course. The competition will follow a 54-hole stroke play format, conducted over three rounds of 18 holes each day, based on gross scores.

In making the announcement, Chris Kinuthia, Chairman of the Kenya Golf Union, stated, “As a union, we are excited to unveil the Kenya Swing series, which not only demonstrates our commitment to advancing the sport but also positions Kenya as a leading golf destination in the region.

“This series acts as a platform for developing talent, fostering growth, and hosting additional tournaments. We are eager to invite international talent to our country, and we believe that by organizing these events, we can highlight the best of Kenyan golf while nurturing the next generation of golfers.”

Following this event will be the 103rd edition of the NCBA Kenya Amateur Matchplay Championship, a highly competitive tournament that focuses on strategic play and mental resilience, to take place at Sigona Golf Club from July 24-27, 2025. The series will then return to Vet Lab, concluding with the 48th Kenya Amateur Strokeplay Championship, which will identify the top amateur of the season and offer a thorough evaluation of the players’ consistency and skills.

The champions of both the Kenya Amateur and Strokeplay events will secure an automatic place in the 2026 Magical Kenya Open, provided they meet all KGU and DP World Tour amateur entry requirements.