Africa-Press – Kenya. Team Kenya has expressed confidence ahead of the 2026 Toyota Junior Golf World Cup from July 5-9 at the Chukyo Golf Club in Japan.
Kenya’s boys team booked their place at the global showpiece after finishing runners-up at the continental championship at the Windsor Golf Hotel & Country Club on March 23 to 26.
South Africa claimed the continental title, with both nations now set to represent Africa in Japan against the world’s leading junior golf nations.
The Toyota Junior Golf World Cup will be played over 72 holes of stroke play across four days, with the best two scores from each nation’s three-player team counting toward the overall team standings each day.
Speaking during the 2026 NCBA Kenya Junior Strokeplay Championship closing ceremony at Muthaiga Golf Club, members of Team Kenya said they are ready to embrace the challenge and proudly represent the country on the international stage.
Yuvraj Rajput said the recent continental championship had sharpened his focus and hunger ahead of Japan.
“It was a tough event. I didn’t play my best the first two days and was still trying to find my swing, but I fought back strongly. I’ve learned a lot from that experience, especially around course management and decision-making. We are going to try our best in Japan, prepare well, and give everything for Kenya.”
He added that the rapid growth of junior golf in Kenya has been driven by consistent opportunities for young players.
“JGF is doing an amazing job. If you look at junior golf two years ago and where it is now, the standards and scores are much better. Opportunities to compete regularly have really helped us improve.”
Mwathi Gicheru said qualification for Japan was both an honour and motivation to raise Kenya’s profile globally.
“We were proud to represent Kenya at such a high level, and qualifying for Japan was a huge reward for all the hard work. Playing against top players in Africa taught us a lot and showed us the level required to compete internationally.”
“That last hole was special. To make birdie with the team, depending on it was a proud moment. There is pressure when you are carrying the hopes of a country, but we are grateful for the opportunity and ready for the next challenge.”
Mwathi also credited sustained support structures for helping players develop.
“I must thank NCBA for supporting so many junior tournaments over the years. Since I started playing, I have seen NCBA backing junior golf consistently. That support has truly helped grow the game and given many of us the platform to improve.”
Yuvraj Rajput in action during the 2026 NCBA Kenya Junior Strokeplay Golf Championship at Muthaiga Golf Club (1)
