Joseph Reagan Akena from Lugazi Hills now leads the pack with a slender one-stroke advantage going into the final 18 holes of the Johnnie Walker 2024 Uganda Amateur Golf Championship. Akena, who played a level round on Friday under challenging Entebbe rains, finds himself in a prime position to claim the prestigious title, but the competition is fierce.
Day One saw Adel Balala setting the pace, with Joseph Cwinya-ai, a former champion, taking over the lead on Day Two. Now, it’s Akena’s turn to shine as he enters Saturday’s final round with everything to play for. However, it’s not just Cwinya-ai who poses a threat. Titus Okwong, who fired a bogey-free 68—the best round of the tournament so far—has clawed his way into contention, tying with Cwinya-ai at 218 shots.
Okwong’s history of faltering on the final stretch may be a concern, but his form on Friday has left him with a real shot at his first-ever Open victory. The final day promises high drama at the par-71 Entebbe Golf Club, where a large crowd is expected to witness the showdown.
Meanwhile, Michael Tumusiime, the 2022 Uganda Open runner-up, will lead the second pressure group after rallying from a tough front nine to card a 76. Alongside him will be Samuel Bazaale, Ibrahim Ssemakula, and reigning champion Godfrey Nsubuga. The top group, however, features the front-runners: Akena, Cwinya-ai, Okwong, and Abdul Kakeeto.
As the 83rd edition of this historic tournament comes to a close, the stage is set for a thrilling final round, with Akena hoping to fend off experienced challengers and claim the title.
