Tanzania’s Aalaa Riyaz Somji delivered one of the most unforgettable moments of the Johnnie Walker Uganda Ladies 2024 Golf Open on Friday with a spectacular hole-in-one at Entebbe Golf Club. Competing in the second round, Somji aced the par-3 6th hole, etching her name into the tournament’s storied history.
With a flawless 9-iron shot, Somji’s ace was undoubtedly the highlight of the day, if not the entire competition. However, her overall performance faltered, and she finished the day with a score of 83, placing her 10 strokes behind the leader. Despite the struggles, Somji took home a brand new classic Motorola phone from HH Solutions as a reward for her incredible shot.
At the top of the leaderboard, Martha Babirye asserted her dominance by shooting a 76, securing the lead heading into Saturday’s final round. She will face a strong challenge from Tanzania’s Iddy Hussein Madina, Neema Olomi, and Hawa Wanyeche, with only two strokes separating the top four players. The final round is set to be a thrilling contest.
Though leading, Babirye expressed dissatisfaction with her putting. “I didn’t putt well,” said the three-time champion. “I am not happy with how I played, but I know what to do tomorrow.”
When asked about her strategy for the final round, Babirye stated that she plans to tackle the course one hole at a time. “The front nine has been tricky for me, but I know what to do tomorrow. I believe I’ve given myself a chance. Let’s wait and see.”
With defending champion Peace Kabasweka absent, Babirye remains Uganda’s best hope for claiming the title. However, the competition from Judith Komugisha and Rest Nalutaaya, who are four and six strokes behind, respectively, remains intense.
The bronze category will also conclude tomorrow, along with a subsidiary round featuring amateur golfers who are gearing up for next week’s men’s competition.
The Johnnie Walker Uganda Golf Open is supported by sponsors such as ABSA Bank, Pinnacle Security Limited, Aquafina, Case Medical Services, HH Solutions, Medisell, NCS, MTN, and NBS Sport.
