In one of the most dramatic finishes in the Open history, Joseph Akena, a young golfer from Lugazi Hills Country Golf Club, clinched the 2024 Johnnie Walker Uganda Amateur Open title in Entebbe, leaving spectators in awe.
It all came down to a nerve-wracking three-foot putt. Joseph Cwinya-ai, the most experienced player in the final four-ball, needed to sink the putt to force a playoff. Time seemed to stand still as he carefully read the line and prepared to stroke the ball. However, in a shocking turn of events, Cwinya-ai missed, making it arguably the most costly bogey of his career.
The gallery erupted in excitement, their cheers now focused on the young Akena, who had been their favorite throughout the day. With just inches to the cup, Akena calmly made his putt, securing his first-ever Uganda Open championship. The 18th green was soon a scene of celebration, with former champion and defending titleholder Godfrey Nsubuga leading the charge as Akena was hoisted into the air by an ecstatic crowd.
Akena’s victory etched his name into the storied history of the Uganda Open, placing him alongside legendary golfers like H. Davidson, Deo Akope, Sadi Onito, Ronald Rugumayo, Ronald Otile, and Stephen ‘Tiger Woods’ Birungi.
Despite his monumental win, Akena remained humble. “I came into the Uganda Open hoping to finish among the top three, so this victory is something that will live in my memory for a very long time,” he said during the trophy presentation. Akena will receive UGX 3.8 million for his triumph, while the top 10 amateurs will share a total of UGX 15 million in prize money, courtesy of ABSA Bank.
While Akena deservedly takes the spotlight, Cwinya-ai’s final round was both spectacular and agonizing. He made a remarkable par on the par-4 14th, followed by birdies on the par-5 15th and 16th holes, only to falter at the crucial Deo Akope 17th.
The 83rd edition of the Johnnie Walker Uganda Open Golf Championship is supported by partners including Hisense, MTN, NBS, Pinnacle Security Limited, Pepsi & Aquafina, NCS, ABSA Bank, HH Solution, and Medise.
