Traditionally, 19th hole experiences at Uganda’s golf tournaments follow a familiar script: dinner, speeches, prize giving, light entertainment, drinks, and guests depart at leisure.
However, things were a little different at the second edition of the I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series, held on Saturday, May 30, at Entebbe Club. As golfers wrapped up their rounds, attention quickly shifted from the fairways to the giant screen, that formed the backdrop of the podium. For once, football took the center stage of the 19th hole, with fans, smartly dressed in jerseys- mostly Arsenal jerseys, gathering to watch the UEFA Champions League final between Arsenal and PSG.
The organizers partnered with DStv, to create a special viewing experience at the 19th hole, turning the post-golf gathering into an evening of football banter.
The final whistle sparked mixed reactions. The Arsenal supporters, who were the majority, were left disappointed, while the PSG fans, and their well wishers, who were equally many, cheered on loudly and wildly.
Among the happiest, were both the Katogo and Entebbe Captains- Elly Mukasa and Serwano Walusimbi, who were visibly animated at full time.
Event host Patrick Idringi Salvador, an ardent Arsenal supporter, could not hide his disappointment. He however quickly rallied fellow Arsenal fans onto the stage and urged them to celebrate what he described as a successful season, having ended a two-decade wait for the Premier League title.
But that wasn’t everything. With the football on the giant screen, DJ Shock ensured that revelers who preferred music while following the action were equally catered for, serving up a lively silent disco experience throughout the evening.
Speaking on behalf of CEO Robin Bairstow, I&M Bank Executive Director and Chief Operations Officer- Sam Ntulume said the experience was an opportunity for tournament participants to connect beyond the golf course.
“Nights like this remind us why sport remains such a powerful force across the world. Whether it is football, golf, rugby, or athletics, sport has an incredible ability to unite people, spark banter, create memories, and build friendships among people from different backgrounds.
I personally witnessed this spirit earlier in May when we hosted our brothers and sisters in golf from Kenya for the second leg of the Migingo Skirmishes. What stood out most was not just the competition on the course, but the friendships, conversations, and laughter shared throughout the event,” he said.
Ntulume added that I&M Bank Mastercard holders, particularly World Elite cardholders, enjoy exclusive golf privileges including up to 30% off green fees and complimentary guest access at Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort and select courses globally under the Mastercard Golf Program.
Meanwhile, on the course, Conrads Ahimbisibwe (68 nett), who was playing at Katogo for the first time, and Peace Hellen (66 nett), emerged l the overall Men and Ladies’ winners respectively, earning RwandAir tickets, stays at Lake Victoria Serena Hotel, and other prizes.
Joel Nagaba won the Men’s Gross category, while Peace Kabasweka claimed the Ladies’ Gross title.
Dennis Kawalya (73 nett) won Men Group A, Patrick M. Mugisha (70 C/B) won Men Group B, and Stephen Adrapi (71 C/B) won Men Group C, while Julia Nampeewo (75 nett) won Ladies Group A and Sheilla Nduhukire (67 nett) won Ladies Group B.
The Johnnie Walker-powered quiz was won by Mathias Zungu, Sarah Nduhukire, Bryan Walusimbi, Anthony Agaba, and Hellen Kisinde.
Side bet winners included Chris Jaramogi in Piga Mingi, Pamela Tumusiime in Nearest to the Pin for Ladies, Rino Kitimbo in Nearest to the Pin for Men, Esther Aganyira in Longest Drive for Ladies, and Ivan Arinaitwe in Longest Drive for Men.
With the 2026 edition of the series now at the halfway mark, I&M Bank Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications- Annette Nakiyaga, said plans remain on course for a cross-border experience in South Africa later in September.
“We remain committed to creating experiences that reflect both the lifestyles and passion points that matter to our clients and the communities we serve. With the continued support of all stakeholders, we believe we will continue delivering even more exciting experiences ahead,” she said.
The 2026 I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series, returning on August 8 for the second leg, is supported by Johnnie Walker, Victoria Motors, GA Insurance, RwandAir, Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort and Spa, Kampala Serena Hotel, Fenon Events, Goldman’s Luxury, NBS Sport, Case Hospital, and Time Cop Security.
