Henseleit expected as Vipingo hosts Ladies European tour opener

Kenya is once again set to host the season-opener for the Ladies European Tour (LET) in February. 

Two-time champion Germany’s Esther Henseleit will be returning to Vipingo Ridge, Kilifi County, to defend her Magical Kenya Ladies Open title. 

She is among a field of 96 professional golfers in a bid to secure a head start on the Race to Costa del Sol.

Preparations for the event are now underway as organisers prepare to host this spectacular tournament, the only women's professional golf competition in East Africa, for a third time. 

The tournament will be held from 2 to 5 February 2023 at the 18-hole Baobab Course, the continent’s sole PGA-accredited course, and preceded by a Pro-Am on 1 February.

First held at the end of 2019 and a second time in February 2022 after a Covid-enforced break, the tournament features golfers from across the world, including a selection of Kenyan players, at the invitation of the LET. 

Vipingo Ridge’s PGA Academy star golfer Naomi Wafula leads the home players. 

“I am really looking forward to going back to Kenya and defending my title. It is a special place for me because it is where I won my first professional tournament and I have always found there is a great atmosphere with many friendly faces. A great way to start the season," Henseleit said of her imminent return.  

On his part, U.COM CEO, the organisers of the event, Dirk Glittenberg said that ut was a special opportunity for secure the official kick-off season event in Kenya once again.

Vipingo Ridge’s Chairman Alastair Cavenagh said they were looking forward to another fantastic LET tournament in the New Year. 

"Kenya has proven that we can put on world-class golf events and I am delighted that Vipingo Ridge can play its part for a third time in hosting these talented sportswomen from so many countries. 

We know millions of fans will be watching the action in February and so we’ll be sure to put on a great show to ensure our magical destination gets the attention it deserves," Cavenagh offered. 

The Magical Kenya Ladies Open will be the first in a series of 39 events on the Ladies European Tour 2023 calendar, the most fixtures ever held on the Tour.