Peace Kabasweka and Perez Muhwezi were the overall winners in the ladies and men’s categories respectively in the opening event of the I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series 2024 that happened on Saturday at Entebbe Club’s par-71 lakeside golf course.
Kabasweka, who won this year’s Entebbe Ladies Open just a week ago, returned to the podium to pick up another accolade. She topped the charts with a score of 78 c/b. As a scratch golfer, this means she carded the same score for both nett and gross scores, showcasing the best golf of the day. She also claimed the ladies’ nearest to the pin gongs.
Muhwezi, handicap 26, emerged victorious also through a count back with a score of 71, surpassing a substantial field of competitors who were closing in on him. In a remarkable feat, Muhwezi showcased his prowess on the golf course, navigating challenges and edging out fellow golfers in a keenly contested competition.
Kabasweka and Muhwezi both received RwandAir tickets as a reward for their exceptional performances. In a generous gesture, the airline recently unveiled a comprehensive package valued at UGX 30 million, covering the cost of tickets for the winners throughout the entire four-event series. This sponsorship not only recognizes the outstanding achievements of individual players but also underscores RwandAir’s commitment to supporting and enhancing the overall experience of the participants in the tournament.
The tournament’s first round adopted the ‘In Regulation’ format, emphasizing individual play with a requirement to land on the green in regulation. A missed regulation resulted in a penalty stroke, but scoring a par or better on the hole negates the penalty.
Robin Bairstow, the CEO of I&M Bank Uganda, took a break from his executive role on Saturday, exchanging the boardrooms for the golf course. After 12 years, he dusted off his golf clubs and enthusiastically joined the fairways, making a noteworthy appearance at the opening event of the series.
Reflecting on the successful event, Bairstow expressed his satisfaction, saying, “We had a good event, there was a lot of fun, and it truly brought together enthusiasts of the sport.” He continued, underscoring their dedication, “We are doing a lot of work for the game of golf, investing time and resources to foster its growth, provide meaningful experiences, and contribute to the thriving community of golf enthusiasts.” Bairstow’s words resonate with the spirit of camaraderie and commitment, highlighting not just the enjoyment of the event but also the strategic efforts being made to enhance and support the broader landscape of golf.
Meanwhile, Vincent Katutsi, boasting a handicap of 7, secured a notable victory by emerging as the gross winner with a score of 81. This achievement marks a significant milestone in the series as it introduces the award for the first time, adding a new layer of recognition to outstanding performances on the golf course.
Paul Habyarimana was men’s Group A winner off 76 nett, Brian Omeda beat Charles Acellam on count back (71) to win in Group B while Badreldin Omar topped Group C off 74.
In ladies Group A, Sarah Nduhukire beat Meron Kyomugisha on count back (80) to emerge winner while in Group B Shalom Kayenje emerged winner off 78.
The other side bets were won by the following players: Darius Mugisha (longest drive – men), Bernadette Musanabera (longest drive – ladies) and Lino Anguzu (nearest to the pin – men).
Meanwhile, transitioning to the second round scheduled for June 29, the ‘Tee for Me’ format transforms the event into a pairs’ competition. Both players tee off at each hole, switching balls for the second shot. The net score determines the team score, with each pair designating six holes for individual play, counting the worse net score.
The other partners of the series are; Victoria Motors, Johnnie Walker, GA Insurance, Fenon Events, Goldman furniture and NBS Sport.
