Local professional golfer Marvin Kibirige beat a large field to come atop at the inaugural Brian Toolit Memorial Golf Championship that came to a close on Wednesday, July 30th at Uganda Golf Club (UGC) in Kitante, Kampala.
Kibirige, who holds the UGC joint course record but is based at Mary Louise Simkins Memorial Club, Namulonge, shot a gross score of 137 over two rounds to claim the biggest chunk of the UGX 15 million kitty.
In the opening round, Kibirige played 2-under (70) to set the tone for the final event of the two-day meet.
He was blazing on full cylinders in the final round. He birdied six times on the day, returning 5-under (67) after his final putt.
“It was a good tournament for me. On round two, I played well because I love to chase rather than being chased. The only grey patch over two rounds was on hole 7 — the troublesome dog-leg. I will maintain my training regime ahead of the Uganda Open,” Kibirige told the media.
Pre-event favorite Ronald Rugumayo, who won the Lugazi leg of the Pearl of Africa Series days ago, tied for second with Michael Tumusiime on 2-under 141 after two rounds.
Lady professional golfer Irene Nakalembe tied for fourth with day-one leader Abraham Ainamani, both posting a gross score of 142.
Other top performers included national team captain Joseph Cwinya-ai (144), Joseph Kasozi (145), David Kamulindwa (146), Rodell Gaita (146), Maurice Ashaba (146), and Ernest Rukundo (146).
A total of 114 golfers graced the event, turning up in impressive numbers to honour the memory of the late Brian Toolit.
Brian Toolit, a former professional golfer and coach, passed away in March this year at the age of 37 after a battle with cancer. His spirit still lives within the golfing community, inspiring both seasoned players and rising talents who remember him for his passion, mentorship, and dedication to the game.
1st Brian Toolit Memorial Golf Open Leaderboard:
Winner: Marvin Kibirige – 70, 67 (137)
T2: Michael Tumusiime – 75, 66 (141)
Ronald Rugumayo – 71, 70 (141)
T4: Abraham Ainamani – 67, 75 (142)
Irene Nakalembe – 68, 74 (142)
