The 7th Absa Bank Captain’s Bell Golf Tournament concluded with a flourish as fierce competition, historic triumphs and cheerful celebration engrossed the Uganda Golf Club Kitante on Saturday evening. Over three exhilarating days, pros and amateurs showcased their finest swings, while a Saturday special tournament and a soulful 19th-hole experience capped an unforgettable event.
There was much to celebrate from the golf club greens as Joseph Cwinyaai stole an early spotlight, etching his name in UGC history with a course-record-tying 63 on day one, powered by nine birdies, finishing 16 strokes ahead of rising star Anthony Otukei.
Meanwhile, Peace Kabasweka reclaimed her throne in the Ladies Gross Amateur category, outpacing Harriet Kitaka with a composed 234 over 54 holes. Among the professionals, Deo Akope’s masterful 11-under-par 277 over 72 holes reaffirmed his enduring class, clinching the top prize from a UGX 20 million kitty.
Off the green, the party culminated at the 19th hole dinner and awards ceremony, where the legendary Afrigo Band delivered a sensational performance. After the re-elected Club Captain, Paul Charles Rukundo rang the Captain’s Bell, guests showed a different kind of swing on the dancefloor as they swayed to timeless hits and toasted to the end of this year’s tournament.
Speaking at the 19th Hole experience, Absa MD David Wandera said, “As we support this tournament for the 7th year running, our UGX 179 million investment this year reflects our deep commitment to growing golf in Uganda, nurturing talent and celebrating moments that bring us together as a community. Today’s prizes and this party are our way of rewarding the excellence we have witnessed here.”
Afrigo Band rolled back the years and sounded as good as ever with performances of crowd favourites like Obangaina, Maria and Nantongo as nostalgia and rhythm electrified the evening.
As Rukundo embarks on another year of the Uganda Golf Club leadership, the Captain’s Bell continues to grow into a hallmark of competition, celebration and connection with Absa Bank as a steadfast partner, driving the sport forward and creating memories that resonate far beyond the green.
