The 16th edition of the World Military Golf Championship wrapped up in spectacular fashion in Diani, Kenya, drawing participation from elite military golfers around the globe. Held at the lush and scenic Diani Beach Golf Club, the four-day, 72-hole competition combined top-tier golfing with cultural diplomacy, uniting service members through sport.
The championship concluded on June 27 with a colorful closing ceremony led by Major General Paul Otieno, Commander of the Kenya Navy. Speaking on behalf of the country’s sports leadership, he praised the International Military Sports Council (CISM) for choosing Kenya as the host and emphasized the value of camaraderie and cooperation showcased throughout the event.
One of the standout moments came courtesy of South Africa’s Lieutenant Colonel Heidi V Berg, who etched her name in the tournament’s history books by scoring the first-ever albatross in the championship. Her feat, coupled with her gold medal win in the Women’s Seniors category, made her one of the competition’s most celebrated figures.
Adding to the list of unforgettable performances, Latvia’s First Lieutenant Artis Lusis struck a rare hole-in-one only the eighth in CISM history further enhancing the tournament’s legendary status.
France proved to be the undisputed powerhouse in team competition, dominating both the Men’s and Women’s team categories. Their consistent excellence across the board earned them the prestigious Don Keus Award for overall performance, underlining their deep bench of talent and cohesion.
While France led the standings, Kenya captured hearts. The host nation was honored with the “Friendship Through Sport” award, a distinction voted on by all participating countries. The accolade celebrated Kenya’s welcoming spirit, cultural richness, and the seamless organization of the international event.
The championship concluded with a vibrant cultural dinner that showcased African traditions through music and dance, leaving an enduring impression on guests from across the globe. With high-level performances, memorable milestones, and a spirit of unity, the event reinforced the role of sports as a bridge across nations and military services.
