Royal Nairobi Golf Club, established in 1906, stands as Kenya’s oldest and most distinguished Golf club. Originally founded as a 9-hole course with sand greens, it has evolved into a premier 18-hole championship course measuring over 7,200 yards from the back tees. The club was granted Royal status by King George V in 1936, making it the only Royal chartered Golf club in Kenya and one of only 64 worldwide.
Origins and Development
The club was founded as a recreational facility for officers of the King’s African Rifles, the precursor to the Kenyan Army. It was the third Golf club established in British East Africa, following clubs founded in 1902 and 1905, both of which no longer exist. The Nairobi Club, as RNGC was originally known, hosted the first East African Ladies’ Championship in 1932 under the auspices of the Kenya Golf Union.
In the early 1920s, the course was expanded to 18 holes and fully grassed. Wild animals roamed the course in the early days, and a leopard was reportedly shot on the fairway in 1919.
The Tannahill Shield
The club is renowned for hosting the Tannahill Shield Easter Tournament, Kenya’s oldest and most prestigious inter-club amateur Golf tournament. In 1924, the inaugural Easter Tournament was held at the club, featuring teams from Nairobi, Mombasa, Kiambu, Nakuru, and Muthaiga. The tournament was organized by Major Arthur C. Tannahill, the club’s Honorary Secretary, who later became the first President of the Kenya Golf Union. In 1938, the trophy was renamed the Tannahill Shield in his honor.
Mr. Arthur C. Tannahill
The tournament has been held annually since 1924, with the exception of 1940 due to World War II and 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It continues to bring together the country’s top amateur Golfers over three days during Easter. The centenary edition of the tournament was held in April of 2025. Mombasa Golf Club—our sister club—cemented the milestone by making history, winning the centenary edition as their first-time win.
Recent Developments
In 2024, RNGC embarked on a significant renovation project to upgrade holes 10 and 11 to PGA standards. The project includes improvements to drainage, irrigation, and the introduction of sand-based greens. The renovations aim to enhance playability and resilience, positioning the club to host international tournaments such as the DP World Tour Kenya Open.
Legacy and Recognition
Today, RNGC is not only a hub for Golf but also a center for community and tradition. Its rich history, commitment to excellence, and Royal status make it a beacon of Golfing heritage in Kenya and beyond.