Rwandan Golfer Challenges Ugandan Dominance in Uganda Golf Open
In the ongoing 2023 Johnnie Walker Uganda Golf Open, the competition for the professional title appears to be intensifying, as Uganda’s Ronald Rugumayo clings to a one-shot lead heading into the third day.
Rugumayo maintained his lead with a score of 136, thanks to a commendable 3-under-par 69 on his second round. However, Rwanda’s Celestin Nsanzuwera posted an impressive 4-under-par 68, setting the stage for an exciting final two days of play at the Uganda Golf Club in Kitante. It’s worth noting that no Ugandan has claimed the Pro title since Deo Akope’s victory in 2014.
After his round, Nsanzuwera expressed confidence and hinted at continuing his strong performance, stating, “Today’s round was great. I just kept my putting intact for most of the time, and I am looking forward to the same strategy going into tomorrow’s round.” Despite a brief rain delay during the tournament, Nsanzuwera’s putting skills remained consistent.
Out of the competing golfers, only 34 have made the cut, with notable figures like Ronald Otile falling out of contention for the prize money. Just 11 Ugandans have secured a place in the tournament’s remaining rounds.
The winner of the Uganda Pro Golf Open Championship is set to receive UGX 21 million from the total prize fund of UGX 100 million. Additionally, the top 30 finishers will share the prize money and earn valuable points for the Safari Tour.
David Kamulindwa, a Ugandan golfer, currently stands in third place with a score of 7-under-par 138 after his 3-under-par 69 performance in the second round. Paulino Kasoma from Namibia, Njoroge Kibuku, and Dismas Anyonyi Ndiza from Kenya are tied for fourth place with scores of 5-under-par 139.
This year’s edition of the tournament has attracted professional golfers from various countries, including Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Uganda, Nigeria, South Africa, and Malawi. The tournament’s flagship sponsor is Johnnie Walker, with co-sponsorships from Absa Bank Uganda, Pinnacle Security Limited, Crown Beverages, HK Properties, Medisell, Case Medical Services, NCS, HTC Hub, Royal, and Ancient.
The following table provides a list of previous winners of the Uganda Pro Open since 2006:
| Year | Winner |
|---|---|
| 2006 | Deo Akope (Uganda) |
| 2007 | Dismas Ndiza (Kenya) |
| 2008 | Dismas Ndiza (Kenya) |
| 2009 | Richard Ainley (Kenya) |
| 2010 | Dismus Ndiza (Kenya) |
| 2011 | Dismus Ndiza (Kenya) |
| 2012 | Dismus Ndiza (Kenya) |
| 2013 | Vicent Byamukama (Uganda) |
| 2014 | Deo Akope (Uganda) |
| 2015 | Madalisto Muthiya (Zambia) |
| 2016 | Joshua Seale (South Africa) |
| 2017 | Stephen Ferriera (Portugal) |
| 2018 | Dismas Indiza (Kenya) |
| 2019 | Madalisto Muthiya (Zambia) |
| 2020 | Robson Chinhoi (Zimbabwe) |
| 2021 | Jastas Madoya (Kenya) |
| 2022 | Robson Chinoi |
| 2023 | To be determined |
The third-day draw for the tournament is as follows:
| Time | Player | Time | Player |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7:00 | Greg Snow (KE) | 8:30 | Adolf Muhumuza (UG) |
| 7:10 | Rodell Gaita (UG) | 8:40 | Paulino Kasoma (NM) |
| 7:20 | Mutahi Kibugu (KE) | 8:50 | David Kamulindwa (UG) |
| 7:30 | James Koto (UG) | 9:00 | Venny Birusya |
| 7:40 | Jastas Madoya (KE) | 9:10 | Stephen Magero |
| 7:50 | Jeff Kubwa (KE) | 9:20 | Paul Agaba |
| 8:00 | Gift Willy (NG) | 9:30 | Dennis Kawalya |
| 8:10 | Marvin Kibirige (UG) | 9:40 | Aly Noorani |
| 8:20 | Phillip Kasozi (UG) | 9:50 | Henry Ssali |
The 2023 Uganda Golf Open promises to be a thrilling competition as golfers from various nations vie for the coveted title.
