The Johnnie Walker Uganda Golf Open is in its penultimate stage with the Professionals Open currently under way at the Uganda Golf Club in Kampala. By the end of day one, South African-based Ugandan Ronald Rugumayo was leading the pack.
If Rugumayo maintains his impressive form and secures victory on the fourth and last day this Saturday, October 28th, it will be a historic moment, marking the first Ugandan professional victory in eight editions of the event. Deo Akope was the last Ugandan to clinch the Professionals Open back in 2014.
All eyes are on Rugumayo, who shared the second position with Kenya’s Simon Ngige in the previous year’s edition, which saw Robson Chinhoi crowned victor. With Chinhoi not defending his title this year, a new champion is guaranteed to emerge from the strong field of participants hailing from Kenya, Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Tanzania, and South Africa.
However, even in the absence of the two-time champion, Zimbabwean Robson Chinhoi, the local players face a formidable challenge.
“They have been honing their skills in Entebbe, a longer course that is good for fitness and accuracy,” explained Davis Kato, the Secretary of the Uganda Professionals Golfer Association (UPGA).
“I believe we will see a different side to them in this tournament,” he added.
“This Professionals Open is highly competitive, and there’s a lot at stake. Johnnie Walker is here to ensure that all the golfers, regardless of the outcome at the 18th hole, will be celebrated for their courage and the bold steps they have taken to compete at the biggest golfing event in Uganda,” stated Christine Kyokunda, Johnnie Walker Uganda Brand Manager.
“As a celebratory drink of Big Flavor, Johnnie Walker has prepared a special celebration for everyone as they step off the course. We have an array of activities planned, from curated mentorships to themed cocktails and of course some entertainment,” Kyokunda added.
The winner of the Professionals Open will walk away with Shs21 million from the Pro’s kitty. The tournament is set to conclude this Saturday with a grand Prize-Giving ceremony at the Uganda Golf Club.
