1923 - 1949

Club Founded in 1923 (A Brief History of Vet Lab Sports Club)

Vet Lab Sports Club, located approximately nine miles northwest of Nairobi along Loresho Ridge Road, has a storied history that began in 1923. That year, Eric Tilley and two associates successfully convinced the leadership at Veterinary Laboratories to establish a golf course on their premises. Initially, they created the first three holes, which are now known as the 1st, 17th, and the old 9th, alongside a simple thatched Banda. By 1924, the course expanded to nine holes, and the inaugural Match Play was held against Ruiru. The club's development continued with the construction of the first clubhouse in 1924, primarily for the convenience of the laboratory staff, and included amenities like two tennis courts and a bowling green, enhancing the club's sporting offerings. Eric Tilley, who served as captain in 1945, was instrumental in the clubhouse's expansion, funded by Arthur Jacob and contributions from members. Recognition came in 1946 when the Kenya Golf Union (KGU) officially acknowledged Vet Lab as a golf course, with Vernon Van Someron as its first captain. That same year saw significant improvements to the course, including the extension of the 6th hole into a dogleg and the reconstruction of the greens. The club's growth did not stop there; in 1949, three additional holes were added, completing the nine-hole setup. Vet Lab became known for nurturing talented golfers like M. M. Little, Peter Murray Wilson, and A. L. Show, who made their mark in various tournaments across Kenya and East Africa. A major expansion occurred in 2010 when Vet Lab Sports Club realized a long-term goal of transforming into an 18-hole championship golf course. Despite challenges, such as ceding part of the golf course in the 1980s for a university football pitch, the club's resilience shone through as members secured alternative land to maintain their sports facilities. From its humble beginnings with three holes in 1923 to its current status as a prestigious 18-hole golf course, Vet Lab Sports Club stands as a testament to the vision and dedication of its founders and members, marking nearly a century of sporting excellence and community spirit.

1950 - 1979

Construction of the Club House

Initially, golf activities were conducted at a simple shed clubhouse between 1923 and 1974. In 1958, Nandi flame trees were planted by Nigel Sinclair, giving hole number 5 the name "Flaming Trees." In 1966, Vetlab welcomed its first African Director and opened its doors to non-European members, though they showed a preference for other sports. In 1974, fundraising efforts led to the construction of a clubhouse, completed in 1976. The course underwent improvements in 1967, including tree planting and water supply installation. Additionally, a banda was built in 1974, officially opened by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Nairobi. These milestones have shaped Vetlab into a thriving community for sports enthusiasts.

1980s - 1990s

Sports Ground

1980s: the university students demanded for a sports ground and specifically agitated for the golf course grounds. 1986: President Daniel Arap Moi gave the 1st fairway to the students to serve as their sports ground. The present hole No. 1 was then recognized to cater for Hole No. 1 and 10 with different teeing greens. After 1986 membership continued to grow and the need for an 18-hole course became apparent. the club membership through the elected officials requested compensation for the land hived away, and the director gave them the land where the present 17th Green stands. A new minister for livestock was appointed and assisted the club members to get more land for present-day holes 5,6,13,14 and 15 stands. In the 1990s: Cooper Kenya donated Ksh 7 million which was used to extend the banda to a clubhouse. Also constructed is the Cooper Lounge where the present-day gym stands and car park.

2000 - Current

The Evolution Of The Golf Club

During the 2000s, the club faced the challenge of maintaining the expanded 18-hole course, which required additional funds for upkeep and optimal utilization. To address this, the club conducted membership drives in 2014, 2016, and 2017, attracting new members and generating the necessary financial support. In 2021, a significant milestone was reached as the club proudly unveiled its newly opened upstairs sports bar. This remarkable addition was made possible through the generous sponsorship of the Jonnie Walker team, solidifying their commitment to the club's growth and development. Today, the club has established itself as one of Kenya's premier golfing and recreational facilities. The meticulously designed 18-hole golf course boasts well-constructed greens, carefully selected with a hybrid blend of bentgrass to ensure exceptional playing conditions. Additionally, the club offers a range of amenities and services, providing a fully functional and enjoyable experience for its members and guests alike.