Gifted lady Golfer Naom Wafula: From chips to champions
Naomi Wafula of Vipingo Golf Resort follows the progress of his tee shot from 10th tee during Kabete Open Amateur Competition on July 21st 2024 at Vet Lab Sports Club.
What you need to know:
- Naom Wafula was once just a child playing golf for the sheer fun of it. Her passion for the sport grew over time.
- To swing the golf club again, she says it took finding herself, coming back stronger, consistent coaching, training, and perseverance. Along the way, she found a new calling. “The child in me finds joy in teaching young golfers to thrive and become better players,” she says.
- Naom is a certified U.S. Kids Golf coach. The U.S. Kids Golf is a United States-based youth golf organisation founded in 1997—the same year Naom Wafula was born.
How did the dream to be a golfer come about?
The dream of being a golfer came from watching professional golfer Rose Naliaka play. Seeing her and other amazing players sparked my interest. Over time, passion and determination turned it into a reality. I grew up in Kilimani, Nairobi, playing golf at Ngong Race Course before moving to Kitale Golf Club and later to Vipingo Ridge.
Who has held your hand since you started your golfing journey?
The legend Rose Naliaka nurtured me from the age of six until my teenage years. Along the way, I’ve had many well-wishers who paid my school fees, sponsored my tournaments, and supported me in various ways. I’m grateful to God and so many people. Shout-out to Vipingo Ridge for their continued support and training opportunities.
Have you achieved everything you dreamed of in golf?
Yes, playing on tour, even as an amateur, has been a significant achievement. I’ve also had two hole-in-ones and aim for more. Through hard work, I’ve achieved goals I never even dreamed of, and I’m now focused on achieving even more.
What other dreams do you have in golf?
My biggest dream is to get rich through the sport and inspire the next generation of golfers. I want to show them that anything is possible with hard work and determination.
What challenges have you encountered in your golf career?
The main challenge has been money. Golf is a very expensive sport. Additionally, as a woman, I’ve faced limited opportunities compared to men, stereotypes about women in sports, and societal expectations. Despite these challenges, I’ve stayed focused and determined to reach my goals.
Have you ever tried your hand at other sports?
In school, I participated in various sports and won medals. I ran 100m, 400m, and 800m, swam all strokes, and played basketball, handball, and tennis. I almost joined rugby but decided to join the cheerleading squad instead after seeing how rough it was. Today, I play other sports for fun and exercise, but golf is my career.
Naom Wafula follows the direction of her tee shot during the Coast Open Barry Cup at the Mombasa Golf Club Course in this photo taken on 26th July 2024.
Share some of your achievements in golf and what it takes to get them.
In February 2023, I became the first Kenyan lady to make the cut in a Ladies European Tour (LET) event, the Magical Kenya Ladies Open at Vipingo Ridge. In November 2023, I became the first lady to win a Kenya Golf Clubs (KGC) event at Kiambu Golf Club, defeating top players Michael Karanga and Uganda’s Godfrey Nsubuga. These accomplishments require early mornings, consistent gym sessions, focused training, and a positive mindset. Hard work and optimism are key.
What are your best and worst moments in golf or life?
My best moment is finding the strength to inspire others every morning. My worst moment was facing rejection from people close to me. I gave up golf at one point and returned to my village in Kitale, where I survived by cooking and selling chips. It was a journey from “Chips to Champions,” teaching me resilience and the power of not giving up.
How expensive is golf?
Golf is very expensive. The costs include equipment, tournament fees, travel, training, and gym sessions. Without sponsorship or steady support, it can be challenging to sustain.
Do you have a role model in golf?
I am my own role model. I’ve learned to be a fighter, mentally and physically, and to push through challenges.
Apart from golf, what else do you do in life?
I’m a U.S. Kids Golf certified coach, training children at Vipingo Ridge. To book lessons, call the Vipingo Ridge Pro Shop at +254733155155. I also work as a content creator and social influencer. Follow me on Instagram (@naom_wafulagolf) and Facebook (Naomi Wafula). Additionally, I’m a motivational speaker focusing on personal growth and self-care. I enjoy connecting with others and staying active in the community.
How do you balance all these activities?
I use a to-do list to manage my time effectively.
How are you securing your future since you won’t play golf forever?
I’m focused on making money and investing it wisely. I’m planning for my financial future by diversifying my income streams.
What life lessons have you picked from golf?
Golf has taught me the value of discipline and maintaining a positive mindset in challenging situations.
What is your guiding principle in golf and life?
Don’t forget to have fun and enjoy the process.
