On Friday, October 13, 2023, the seasoned golf veterans joined the Ladies at the on-going 2023 Johnnie Walker Uganda Open Golf Championship, for an exciting two days of golfing action.
The Senior Open, which features golfers aged 55 years and above, will now see the male and female golfers in that category embark on their 36 holes action at the par 72 Uganda Golf Club, in Kampala.
Among the distinguished competitors is the two-time Seniors’ winner John Muchiri. Having secured back-to-back victories in the 2021 and 2022 editions, Muchiri teed off at noon today, in a group that consists of the duo of esteemed golfers; Hon John Byabagambi and Godfrey Onyango. In the opening round Muchiri finished tied for sixth with David Plenderleith and Sean Kinsella off 12 over par 84.
The tournament boasts an impressive line-up of seasoned golfers including, Eng. John Nasasira, Kenyan High Commissioner to Uganda H.E. Rtd Maj. Gen. George Owino, Okello Ocero, Sam Zaramba, Charles Katarikawe, Robinson Lutwama, Connie Mukuru, David Plenderleith, and a host of other talented contenders.
However, the leader of the senior event of the championship after round one is Joseph Bagabo off 3 over par 75. He has a five-stroke lead ahead of second placed Tony Kabirizi and six shots ahead of third placed Julius Musiimenta.
On the other hand, The Ladies Open, currently on its Day Two, saw Toro Golf Club’s Peace Kabasweka score 143 gross over 36 holes, to post a four-stroke lead ahead of Tanzanian Iddy Hussein Madina.
The bronze cluster of female golfers will take on the greens till tomorrow, when the winners of both the Ladies and Seniors Open will be announced and awarded.
Dr Jackson Were, the Tournament Director anticipates a great day following a successful day one of the silver category for ladies.
“We had an amazing opening day of the 2023 Johnnie Walker Uganda Ladies Open on Thursday, 12th October. The course was immaculate, the weather perfect and the action unfolded well. We expect a smooth round on day two where the bronze lady players and seniors will join the action” Dr. Were stated.
Johnnie Walker is the headline sponsor for this year’s Uganda Open, and have promised a spectacular prize giving ceremony for both winners and golf enthusiasts tomorrow.
“The Ladies and Seniors Open have attracted very good numbers, and the competition is quite stiff. After the gruelling moments on the greens, we await golfers and golfing enthusiasts at the 19th hole, to enjoy the big flavour experience. Remember, we are here to elevate the golfing experience at the biggest tournament on the Ugandan golfing calendar this year,” said Christine Kyokunda, the Johnnie Walker Brand Manager.
Other partners for the Johnnie Walker Uganda Open 2023 include; Crown Beverages Limited (Aquafina), National Council of Sports (NCS), Absa Bank, NBS Sport, Medisell, Pinnacle Security Limited, CASE Medical Services, Orchard Interiors, HH, among others.
