Joe Dean’s Inspiring Journey to Golf Success at Magical Kenya Open
Discover the inspiring story of delivery driver turned golfer Joe Dean, who secured a remarkable second-place finish at the Magical Kenya Open. Overcoming financial hurdles, Dean’s journey from the Qualifying School to a spot on the DP World Tour is nothing short of extraordinary.
Delivery driver Joe Dean concluded an extraordinary week at the Magical Kenya Open with a closing round of 67, securing a tie for second place behind Darius van Driel in Nairobi.
The 29-year-old Englishman earned his DP World Tour card by successfully navigating all three stages of the Qualifying School in 2023, sealing his spot with a birdie on the final hole of the final stage in November.
Despite the new season starting shortly after, Dean did not tee off until the Qatar Masters earlier this month, as he lacked the necessary funds to support a career on a tour that has already taken him to seven countries and three continents this campaign.
After missing the cut in Doha, the world number 2,930 returned to his job as a delivery driver for Morrisons last week. However, a final-day birdie on Sunday secured him a share of second place and a cheque for just over £170,000, a life-changing outcome.
“I don’t think it’s sunk in yet,” he said. “It’s got to be life-changing. It’s what people dream of, it’s what I’ve been aiming to do for a long time.”
After a challenging few years, Dean expressed his surprise at having another opportunity, stating, “After the last three or four years I never thought I’d get another chance.”
Dutchman Van Driel carded a closing 67 to finish the tournament at 14-under-par, two shots clear of Dean and Spaniard Nacho Elvira. England’s Matthew Jordan finished one shot further back at 11-under, while Scottish duo Ewen Ferguson and Connor Syme rounded out the top five.
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