A brand-new all-electric BYD Atto 3, valued at Sh8.2 million, will be the ultimate prize for any golfer who achieves a hole-in-one at this year’s Magical Kenya Open. The DP World Tour event kicks off on Thursday at the par-71 Muthaiga Golf Club.
Speaking at the handover ceremony of the car to Ronald Meru, the Commercial Director of Kenya Open Golf Limited, Loxea Managing Director, Jennifer Kinyoe, emphasised the company’s commitment to sustainability.
“At CFAO Mobility and LOXEA, we pride ourselves on innovation, sustainability, and a commitment to shaping a better, greener future. The BYD Atto 3 electric vehicle that is being handed over today is more than just a remarkable prize—it’s a symbol of our dedication to creating a cleaner, more sustainable world, one step at a time,” said Kinyoe.
The stylish all-electric car will be awarded to the first player to make a hole-in-one at the 191-yard, par-three 13th hole during the four-day tournament.
The brand-new all-electric BYD Atto 3, valued at Sh8.2 million that awaits Kenya Open hole-in-one winner in this picture taken on February 18, 2025 at Muthaiga Golf Club.
Photo credit: Chris Omollo | Nation Media Group
“As you are aware, this year we have renewed our commitment for the fifth time by being the official transport partner for the fourth time in a row through the sponsorship of the World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally Kenya. This commitment extends beyond motorsports, as we seek to support various sporting disciplines, including golf,” she said.
The last time a car was won as a hole-in-one prize at the Magical Kenya Open was in 2017 when Finland’s Oliver Lindell aced the 13th hole to claim a Sh6.9 million Ford Ranger Wild Trak.
“This year, we are handing over an all-electric vehicle that will be awarded for a hole-in-one. The BYD Atto 3 represents our belief in reducing our carbon footprint while providing cutting-edge technology that enhances the driving experience. It’s a perfect alignment with the values of excellence and precision that the game of golf embodies,” added Kinyoe.
Meru thanked CFAO for donating the car, noting that it would add excitement to the 56th edition of the tournament.
“We are especially excited to receive the BYD Car, a significant addition that aligns perfectly with our sustainability component here in the Magical Kenya Open. The introduction of electric vehicles is an important innovation for our ecosystem, and we deeply appreciate CFAO’s cutting-edge technology in this field,” said Meru.
Meanwhile, only six Kenyan professionals will participate in the Open Pro-Am at Muthaiga Golf Club, a curtain-raiser for the 2025 Magical Kenya Open. Tournament Director Patrick Obath, who chairs the Local Organising Committee (LOC), explained the limited participation.
“The reason why only a few locals are playing in the Pro-Am is that only 48 professionals in total will be in action,” said Obath.
Among the Kenyan pros teeing off Wednesday morning are Greg Snow and Njoroge Kibugu (both Muthaiga members), veteran Dismas Indiza, and Sigona’s Mohit Mediratta.
In the afternoon session, Golf Park’s David Wakhu and Samuel Njoroge will take to the course, alongside past Kenya Open champions Guido Migliozzi, Justin Harding, 2022 winner Ashun Wu, and Qatar Masters champion Haotong Li.
Defending champion Darius van Driel will headline the morning event, which starts at 7:10 am. Spanish past winner Jorge Campillo is also in the afternoon draw.
Obath noted that each Pro-Am session will have its own set of prizes, offering Kenyan amateur golfers a chance to compete alongside some of the world’s top professionals.
