Pulse Kenya is the most followed news and entertainment platform in Kenya. It informs and engages young Kenyans around the clock and provides updates by the hour.

Pulselive Kenya

How to join golf community, play on a budget &amp; get paid

Golf on a budget: Caddie Benard Okari shares why NCBA Golf Series is the best launch pad | Pulselive Kenya

Denis Mwangi

The sun was barely peeking over the horizon as I stepped onto the lush greens of Muthaiga Golf Club, ready for the NCBA Golf Series that brought together over 200 golfers.

The previous night’s heavy rains had been a welcome blessing for the course, giving the fairways a vibrant, emerald hue and the air a fresh, crisp quality.

Dew clung to the grass, sparkling like tiny diamonds in the early morning light.

The crisp morning air was filled with the gentle hum of conversations and the distant thwack of <a href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/business/domestic/why-golf-balls-have-dimples-and-other-interesting-facts-about-the-sport/9r6990v">golf clubs hitting balls</a>. As I made my way to the course, I couldn’t help but feel a bit out of place among the seasoned golfers.

<h3>Meeting Bernard a seasoned caddie</h3>

Then I met Bernard, a caddie with a warm smile and a twinkle in his eye. He greeted me with a firm handshake, instantly making me feel at ease. Little did I know, this interaction would profoundly change my perspective on golf—and life.

As his golfers were taking a much-needed break, I managed to steal a moment with Ben, a caddie who offered to share his insights.

Caddie Benard Okari at Muthaiga Country Club

“You see,” he said, pointing to a golfer preparing for a swing, “It’s not just about hitting the ball. It’s about strategy, patience, and respect for the game.”

I watched as the golfer meticulously lined up his shot, adjusting his stance and grip. Ben explained the importance of each movement—the stance for stability, the grip for control, and the swing for power and precision. I found myself nodding, absorbing every word.

This was his third NCBA Golf Series having attended one at the home of golf and another at Windsor Golf Club.

<div class="embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Today on the greens we had one of our favorite caddies and he shared what his journey has been and how NCBA Golf Series has impacted his life. Take a listen majamaa uone pia wewe unaweza kua a part of this conversation.<a href="https://twitter.com/NCBABankKenya?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NCBABankKenya</a><a href="https://twitter.com/MuthaigaGC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MuthaigaGC</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoForIt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoForIt</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NCBATwendeMbele?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NCBATwendeMbele</a>… <a href="https://t.co/RbWM1qo0yB">pic.twitter.com/RbWM1qo0yB</a>&mdash; Pulse Kenya (@PulseLiveKenya) <a href="https://twitter.com/PulseLiveKenya/status/1794370655200137264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

</div>

<h3>Debunking the stereotype about golf</h3>

“What’s your take on the stereotype that golf is only for the rich?” I asked, genuinely curious.

Ben chuckled. “It’s a common misconception,” he said. He continued that the equipment can be expensive, but young people on a budget can start as caddies. It’s a great way to learn the game, make connections, and even earn some money.

&nbsp;In golf, a caddie is the person who assists a golfer on the course.

“The NCBA Golf Series over the years has helped me because they support caddies and have given them the opportunity to play and show their potential,” he said.

Caddies start by learning the basics—carrying bags, understanding the course layout, and reading the greens.

But it's more than just physical labour. They observe the golfers, pick up techniques, and get firsthand lessons on strategy and etiquette.

As we continued to watch, I noticed the subtle interactions between golfers and their caddies. There was mutual respect, a silent communication that spoke volumes. The caddies weren't just there to carry bags; they were essential to the game, offering advice and support.

As the day wore on, the golf course transformed before my eyes. It was no longer just a playground for the wealthy, but a place where young people could dream, learn, and grow. The golfers and caddies worked in harmony, each contributing to the other's success.

A participant during the NCBAGolfSeries2024

<h3>Overcoming Challenges: A Lesson from Golf</h3>

Another pivotal moment came when <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SHl165BBIdM">one of the golfers faced a particularly challenging shot</a>. The ball had landed in a tricky spot near the rough, and tension hung in the air. Ben and I watched closely as the caddie offered advice, pointing out the best angle and strategy.

The golfer took a deep breath, adjusted his stance, and swung. The ball soared through the air, landing gracefully on the green. A collective sigh of relief swept through the spectators. Ben turned to me with a knowing smile.

“See?” he said. “Golf is about overcoming challenges, just like life. It teaches you patience, resilience, and the importance of trusting others.”

As the day went on, I found myself reflecting on Ben’s words. His nuanced perspective had demystified the stereotypes about golf.

It isn’t just a sport for the rich; it was a game of skill, patience, and mutual respect. Young people could indeed find their place in this world, starting small and growing into skilled golfers.

I’ll be waiting for the next event where top performers will compete in the Grand Finale of the <a href="https://golfseries.ncbagroup.com/">NCBA Golf Series 2024</a>.

<h3>Join the Twende Mbele Campaign</h3>

Join the Twende Mbele campaign and become part of Kenya’s vibrant golf community. Whether you're a pro or a beginner,<a href="https://golfseries.ncbagroup.com/"> NCBA supports your journey</a>. At NCBA, we rise with our customers every day, inspiring ambitions and dreams. With over 60 years of award-winning service, we’re dedicated to encouraging our 60 million customers across Africa to strive for greatness. Let’s Go For It together!

Follow Pulse &amp; NCBA on social media for more updates, and don't miss the highly anticipated Sigona Golf Tournament at the Vetlab Sports Club on August 24.

This tournament promises an exciting day filled with exceptional golf, camaraderie, and stunning views of the lush fairways.

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, this is the perfect opportunity to showcase your skills, meet fellow enthusiasts, and enjoy the community spirit that defines Kenyan golf.

#FeatureByNCBA

Caddies at the Limuru Country Club for the NCBAGolfSeries2024

Golf on a budget: Caddie Benard Okari shares why NCBA Golf Series is the best launch pad

Business

lifestyle

Entertainment

News

Politics

Local

World

Celebrities

Music

Movies

Sports 

Fashion

Beauty & Health

Relationships & Weddings

Food & Travel

Lifestyle

Domestic

International 

Explore categories

The Pulse Influencer Awards has been set up to recognize and highlight bright lights in the influencer space in Kenya who are building active engaged communities around their niche or craft.

Influencer Awards

Company Pages

Breaking News & Top Stories | Pulselive Kenya

Pulse Kenya

Video

Checkout our authors for the latest content across entertainment, sports, business and more. Be first to receive exclusive updates with your free subscription straight to your phone | Pulselive Kenya

Authors | Pulselive Kenya

| Pulselive Kenya

Read the latest news across entertainment, sports, business and more. Be first to receive exclusive updates with your free subscription straight to your phone | Pulselive Kenya

Search for the latest content across entertainment, sports, business and more. Be first to receive exclusive updates with your free subscription straight to your phone | Pulselive Kenya

Search Results | Pulselive Kenya

Watch the latest videos across entertainment, sports, business and more. Be first to receive exclusive updates with your free subscription straight to your phone| Pulselive Kenya