Newly minted Kenyan teen golf sensation Jacinta Njeri is raring to go at the forthcoming Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics Summer Games set for Japan on November 15-26.
The Form Two student at Ngala Secondary School for the Deaf in Nakuru County is already inspiring ahead of the global showpiece with her amazing performances in local championships that have seen her bag several glittering accolades.
The hard-hitting 19-year-old will represent Kenya in Tokyo alongside the experienced trio of Deaflympics golf bronze medalist Isaac Makokha, Gilbert Alikula, and Adan Wario,
In addition to setting an ambitious target of winning a gold medal at the Deaflympics, Njeri hopes her participation in the Games will inspire more women, especially those with hearing impairments to take up the sport.
“Being the first time to be part of the Kenya Deaf team to the Deaflympics and amongst three men, I am very proud of myself,” said Njeri.
“When I go to Tokyo, my target is to play a good round of golf and get a gold medal. I hope that the four of us can reach the podium to make the country proud.
“I don’t want to be the only deaf lady golfer in the team so I’m inviting other ladies to learn golf and feel empowered,” she added, noting that her friends and family have also urged her to go for the elusive gold medal in Tokyo.
The handicap 20 player is currently alternating her training sessions at the various golf clubs dotting Nairobi that includes Railways, Muthaiga and Vet Lab Sports Club.
Makokha, Alikula and Wario represented Kenya in the last edition of the Deaflympics held at Caxias Do Sul in Brazil in 2022 where Makokha stole the show by winning for Kenya a historic bronze medal.
Njeri says the experienced trio have helped her to sharpen her game through intense mentorship. Owing to the rigorous training and the experience she has gained from various tournaments; Njeri has declared her readiness for the Tokyo challenge.
“Although I am still training very hard, I’m well prepared for the task ahead,” underlined Njeri, who also plays volleyball and basketball in her free time.
Njeri started playing golf in 2022 after being inspired by her coach and current Vet Lab Sports Club resident pro Shem Orwenyo.
The student says she loves golf because it gives her the opportunity to interact with fellow golfers and unwind.
“I really love the game because I get to meet my fellow players. It is very interesting, the weather is nice and golf also helps me to relax. I’m a very proud golfer,” she said.
Njeri singled out communication as her main challenge in the sport, especially when she is competing against hearing participants.
Team Kenya golf coach David Kihara has praised Njeri for her dedication and potential in the sport, tipping her to medal in Tokyo.
“When I saw her swing and looked at her scoring records, I noted that her potential is very high. She is young, she is strong, she is committed,” Kihara highlighted.
“She is willing to pay the price to be a Deaflympics medalist. The girl has potential to be a great player in the future, so I urge her to make best use of the opportunities that come her way well,” added Kihara who has also tipped the Kenya golf team for good performance in Tokyo.
“I believe we are ready for it (Deaflympics). Some medals are coming,” Kihara declared.
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