Zambian golfer- Dominic Musonda, yesterday- Wednesday, August 3rd, took the lead of the opening round of the 2025 Johnnie Walker Uganda Open Golf Championship Amateur event, at Lugazi Hills Golf and Country Club.
The Nkana Golf Club star, is in Uganda for the first time, and is among tens of foreign players, either making their Johnnie Walker Uganda Open debut, or playing at Lugazi for the first time.
Musonda, the national champion back in Zambia, shot a 6-under- 65, on day one in Lugazi. His round was impressive, featuring a bogey-free front nine, 8 birdies, and 2 bogeys on the back nine. He leads the 70-man field by two shots.
“It was a great round,” Musonda told the media, adding, “The way I was swinging, I didn’t expect to play like this. Mastering putting and the short game on this course has really helped me, thanks to my caddie.”
“For the remaining three days, I hope my swing comes back. I struggled off the tee and with my long irons today, so I’ll need to stay patient, hit smart shots, and trust my short game to stay in contention.”
Uganda’s National Team Captain- Joseph Cwinyaai came second, with 4-under 67, just two shots off the lead, a strong start that keeps the home crowd hopeful.
Only two other golfers (all Ugandans), Elton Thembo and Abdul Kakeeto, shot under-par rounds in the opening round of the tournament, which is marking its 84th edition this year. The duo is tied for third off 1-under 70.
Peter Tumusiime, Rogers Eyoyo, and John Musimenta are all tied for fifth at even par 71, while 2022 champion Andrew Sekibejja, Sande Lulet, and Lawrence Walakira are tied for eight, after carding 1-over 72.
Defending champion Joseph Reagan Akena, competing on his home course, will need a miracle after he shot a six-over 77.
The opening round of the Johnnie Walker Uganda Open Golf Championship Amateurs event was spiced up by a par-3 challenge/competition for the tournament sponsors.
Played over five holes, Uganda Tourism Board emerged winners with a team gross score of 25, while Johnnie Walker Black beat Uganda Golf Union on countback, both scoring 26, to claim second place. NBS Sport also scored 26 but finished fourth. Other teams included Johnnie Walker Blonde, Absa, and Medisell.
The Johnnie Walker Uganda Open Golf Championship Amateur Open continues today, and will run through to Saturday, promising more exciting golf action as players battle for top positions.
The 2025 Johnnie Walker Uganda Open Golf Championship is sponsored by Absa Bank Uganda, Aquafina, Isuzu Mac East Africa, Uganda Tourism Board, Medisell Uganda, NBS sports, and MTN MoMo.
