The top ten golfers from the 2024 Absa Pro-Am Tournament of the Uganda Golf Open have today won the opportunity to play in the 2025 Magical Kenya Open courtesy of Absa Bank Uganda.
Ten slots in the Magical Kenya Open have been made available to the top ten players in the professionals and amateurs categories that played in the Absa Pro-Am at Entebbe Club. However, the selected professionals will need to still qualify as per the Magical Kenya Open selection criteria. Any of the slots allocated to professionals that are not utilised will be given to the next best amateur golfers.
At the Absa Pro-Am, Celestin Nsanzuwera emerged as the top professional with 43 points, showcasing his prowess on the course. Greg Snow closely followed with 42 points, demonstrating his consistency. Ronald Rugumayo and Njoroge Kibugu both scored 38 points, with Rugumayo edging out Kibugu on a countback to claim third place. Silver Opio secured the fifth position with 37 points, also after a countback.
In the amateur category, Philemon Akatuhurira led the pack with 42 points, establishing himself as the top amateur in the competition. Ronald Pulle and Peace Hellen were not far behind, both scoring 41 points and displaying remarkable skill. Christopher Magezi and Apollo Segawa completed the top five with 40 points each, with Magezi taking the fourth spot on a countback.
In addition, the top three professional winners from the tournament received a total of UGX8 million in cash prizes.
The announcement was made by the bank’s Executive Director and Chief Financial Officer Michael Segwaya, during the prize-giving ceremony for the Absa Pro-Am held at the Uganda Golf Club.
While addressing the participants, the media and the organisers, he said, “We are driven by the desire to be a force for good in the community and this support will provide our Ugandan players the opportunity to enhance their skill and gain international exposure by participating in the prestigious Magical Kenya Open. This opportunity has over the years contributing to elevating our golf players and unlocking opportunities for growth. Our efforts have paid off over the years reflected by wins like Ronald Rugumayo making history to become the first Ugandan player to make the cut for the DP World Tour owing to Absa’s support.”
The Magical Kenya Open – which started in 1967 – has grown to become one of Africa’s premier golf attractions and is now part of the DP World Tour.
The Absa Pro-Am Tournament is a one-day tournament where Professional golfers are paired with Amateur golfers to give the professionals an extra practice round before the Professionals Open while improving the skills of amateur golfers within a competition situation.
Over the years, Absa has sponsored various tournaments such as the Captain’s Bell, and supported amateur players to participate in the Magical Kenya Open which has helped to expand their perspective on the game and improve their skills.
“At Absa Bank Uganda, we believe in the power of sports to unite communities and inspire individuals. By investing in events like this, we aim to encourage the spirit of healthy competition and provide a platform for local talent to thrive, one of the many ways we believe we can deliver on our purpose to empower Africa’s tomorrow and empower Uganda,” said Michael Segwaya, Absa’s CFO.
The Uganda Golf Open, one of the country’s most anticipated golf tournaments, is renowned for its rich tradition and high-level competition. The sponsor’s support is intended to elevate the tournament’s standards, attract more top-tier players, and provide an enhanced experience for both participants and spectators.
