Ugandan professional golfer Ronald Rugumayo on Friday became the first Ugandan to make the cut at a DP World Tour event. His historic birdie in hole 18 at Muthaiga Golf Club in Nairobi ensured that he advanced into weekend play of the Magical Kenya Open for the first time since its inception in 1967.
Rugumayo, 31 who is 2,901st in the Official World Golf Ranking remains the only East African in the competition. His magical putt was far from easy, measuring around ten feet and the right-to-left break required careful judgement down the slope. Three quarters the way along, it appeared the putt would miss on the high side, but, as Rugumayo sank to his knees almost in hope more than expectation, his ball trickled its way into the right edge of the hole.
The result was an almost deafening roar from those watching on. This meant something, not only to the player.
“I don’t know want to say but whatever happened I was expecting it and I’ve really been working hard towards it,” the Absa Bank Uganda sponsored Rugumayo told media moments after the magical putt.
“I have really put in a lot of time and commitment so I really deserve it. This year I was aiming to more than just making the cut, yes I have made the cut but I haven’t met my target yet. I would love to finish in a good position but it will all come down to me. What I do and how I will handle things will determine where I finish,” Rugumayo added.
After two rounds, Rugumayo was tied for 64th with seven others. He played 1 under on Friday at the par-71 course. He had had played 1 over in the opening round and his two-stroke improvement earned him a slot for the grilling weekend action.
Rugumayo’s achievement has earned him a lot of congratulatory messages from across the globe including from the Uganda Professor Golfers Association (UPGA).
Rugumayo’s success is not only a personal triumph but also a source of pride for Uganda, highlighting the country’s growing presence in the international golfing scene. The historic moment underscores the talent and dedication of Rugumayo, who has now become a trailblazer for aspiring Ugandan golfers.
The DP World Tour competition in Kenya will now witness Ronald Rugumayo competing among the best in the world, representing not only his personal journey but also the aspirations of a nation proud to see one of its own making history on the global golfing platform.
