The Nairobi Club Bowling Section rang in the new year with a colourful and competitive tournament as the Zippy Miano Memorial Trophy took centre stage, marking the club’s first bowling event of 2026.

Held in honour of the late Zippy Miano, one of the pioneer African bowlers at Nairobi Club, the memorial tournament once again celebrated both sporting excellence and a trailblazing legacy that helped open doors for African participation in the traditionally exclusive sport.

“This tournament is very special to us,” said Nairobi Club Bowling Section captain Stanley Mumo.

“Zippy Miano was a remarkable lady and one of the early African bowlers at this club. Hosting this trophy every year is our way of keeping her memory alive and recognising her contribution to the game.”

The competition attracted a field of about 25 bowlers, setting the tone for what Mumo described as a high-quality and closely contested event.

“The performance today was very good. There was strong competition across the board, and it was encouraging to see the standard of play so early in the year,” he said.

After a day of intense bowling, Charles Wambugu, David Salmon, and Jedida Maina emerged victorious, clinching the Zippy Miano Memorial Trophy and earning the distinction of being crowned the 2026 champions.

With the curtain now raised on the season, Nairobi Club is bracing itself for a packed and exciting calendar of events.

National trials are scheduled for February 24 and 25 at the club, followed by additional trials on February 28 and March 1, 2026.

In early February, the club will also welcome an international flavour, with a visiting team from England expected to arrive from February 7.

“We are really looking forward to that visit,” Mumo noted. “It’s always great to exchange skills, ideas and experiences with bowlers from outside the country.”

Another milestone on the horizon is the introduction of Kenya’s first-ever youth bowling championship for players under 30, which will also be hosted at Nairobi Club.

“This is a big step for the future of the sport,” Mumo said. “We want to grow bowling by bringing in younger players.”

He emphasised that bowling is an inclusive and accessible sport.

“It’s open to everyone. From around age nine or 10 all the way to 99, if you can roll the ball, you can play. It’s a mental game, about balance, control and sometimes a bit of luck.”

As the year gathers momentum, Nairobi Club hopes to attract more players and spectators, inviting Kenyans to discover and enjoy a sport rich in tradition, challenge, and camaraderie.