By Suleiman Mbatiah
Flamingo FC are the new millionaires in Nakuru Town East after lifting this year’s inter-estate football tournament with a hard-fought 2–1 win over Lakeview FC.
The final, played at Kamukunji Grounds, lived up to its billing as Flamingo who beat Kimathi 1-0 in the semifinals held their nerve in a pulsating contest to walk away with the Sh1 million winners’ jackpot.
The annual tournament, sponsored by Nakuru Town East MP David Gikaria, brought together teams from across the constituency, drawing large crowds and showcasing emerging football talent at the grassroots level.
“This tournament is meant to give young players a platform to showcase ability and identify raw talent, and open pathways to professional football,” said MP Gikaria.
Lakeview FC pushed Flamingo all the way in an evenly matched final, but the eventual champions capitalized on key moments to seal the victory and cap a strong tournament run.
In the women’s category, YCNQ Freehold Queens clinched the title after a narrow 1–0 victory over Flamcity, earning Sh100,000 for their efforts.
The Reformed Category final went down to the wire, with Bondeni edging Kanyon 7–6 on penalties after a barren draw in regulation time. Bondeni pocketed Sh150,000 following the dramatic shootout.
In the Under-17 final, St John’s beat Kabachia 3–1 on penalties after full time ended goalless, rounding off a competitive day of football at the Kamukunji Grounds.
Businessman Geoffrey Kamau Maina hailed the tournament as a key platform for nurturing local talent and promoting cohesion among estates in Nakuru Town East.
Mr Kamau, who was the guest of honor said the tournament has helped fight crime in the estates and opened pathways to professional football through structured grassroots competition.