Kenya confirms sports promotion to national image

Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki expressed government's commitment to continued hosting of international sports events of repute on Sunday in order to inspire young players to strive harder and gain the exposure to play or officiate at world class events.

Kibaki said that such ventures will not only bring together professional players but also promote the sport and cultivate a positive image of the country as a leading sports destination.

"I do recall witnessing an exciting championship last year. This year's game has been equally exciting and inspiring," he said during the finals of the 44th edition of the Kenya Open Golf Championship at Muthaiga Golf Club in Nairobi.

"I have taken particular note of the high standards of the game that has been demonstrated by both foreign and local players alike. I congratulate all the players for the sterling performance," he said and congratulated the tournament participants and winners for the remarkable golfing standards.

The president stressed that the government holds golf tournaments in high esteem as the No. 1 championship, and among the top sporting events in the annual sports calendar that brings together top professional golfers to country.

President Kibaki urged the respective golf federations in the country to put in place structures that will accord the youth adequate support and encouragement to develop their skills and pursue serious careers in sport.

Kibaki emphasized that the international co-operation fostered in golf tournaments and other competitions need be enhanced at the developmental stage of the game to attract more potential young players.

Saying that golf was an exciting game that needs collaborative efforts to promote, President Kibaki stressed that like other sports, the skills for the game must be developed early to raise the standards.

The president commended the Kenya Open Golf Limited, the Management, Membership and staff of Muthaiga Golf Club for the high standards of the facilities and the challenging course put in place.

The president thanked the sponsors led by Barclays Bank of Kenya for supporting the tournament. He also appreciated all the players for, once again, choosing to play in the Kenya Open and urged them to encourage other top players to participate in future Kenya Open events.

During the occasion President Kibaki presented prizes to winners of various categories in golfing.

Assistant Minister for Sports Wavinya Ndeti called on sports federations to revise their rules and regulations to be in line with the country's constitution.

The championship whose 44th title was won by England's Seve Benson brought together 156 players from across the world including 26 from Kenya.