Published on September 9, 2024 by Agencies for Kenya Online News
Last Updated on 2 years by Agencies for Kenya Online News
Nairobi, Kenya – September 08, 2024 – Two Kenyans, Adel Balala and 2023 champion Dismas Indiza, tied for third place at this year’s Professional Open in the Johnnie Walker Uganda Open Golf Championship.
Zambia’s Dayne Jr Moore claimed his first title with an impressive score of 281 (three under par) at the Entebbe Club on Saturday, while Celestin Nsanzuwera secured second place with a score of 283.
More than 30 Kenyan golf professionals, including Muthaiga Golf Club top golfer Greg Snow, and Johnnie Walker brand ambassador Jeff Kubwa, participated in the just concluded 83rd Johnnie Walker Uganda Open Golf Championships this week.
The Professional Open category kicked off on Wednesday, September 4th, 2024, through to Saturday, September 7th. Earlier rounds of the tournament began on August 22nd, featuring competitions such as the Juniors Open, Ladies Open, Seniors Open, and Amateurs Open.
This year’s professional’s championship offered an impressive total prize purse of $40,242 (USh150m) up from $26,830(USh100m), with enhanced incentives designed to attract a larger pool of elite golfers compared to previous years. The significant prize fund underscores the event’s ambition to become a premier golf destination, drawing professionals from beyond Africa and elevating the competition’s international profile.
Commenting on the tournament, East African Breweries PLC (EABL) Marketing Manager for Scotch and Reserve Portfolio, Josephine Katambo, emphasised the brand’s commitment to excellence and regional sportsmanship.
“The Johnnie Walker Uganda Open Golf Championships represent not just a sporting event but a celebration of skill, dedication, and the unifying spirit of golf across East Africa. We are proud to support our talented golfers as they compete on this prestigious stage, and we believe this tournament will continue to elevate the profile of East African golf on the global map.”
The tournament’s cash prize was distributed among the top three golfers with the winner receiving Ush31,500,000, the runner-up Ush 21,000,000 and the third-place finisher Ush 12,690,000. Last year, the Dismas Indiza took home $5,645 (Ush 21m) as the overall winner.
Established in 1901, the Uganda Open Golf Championship is being held at the region’s oldest golf course, Entebbe Club. Known for its distinctive character, the course features long, protruding pine trees that define its challenging roughs and well-maintained fairways, offering a unique playing experience.
Beyond its competitive aspect, the Uganda Open serves as a vital opportunity for golfers to build and strengthen relationships within the sport. The event promises to be a showcase of exceptional talent and a testament to the vibrant spirit of golf. With Johnnie Walker’s commitment to excellence and luxury, this tournament exemplifies the brand’s dedication to supporting prestigious sporting events and fostering connections within the golf community.
The Uganda Open Golf Championships stand as a premier event, drawing the most elite golfers from the region and beyond to display their skills. This year’s tournament is set to be a remarkable celebration of golf, blending high-level competition with the opportunity to forge lasting connections and celebrate the sport’s rich heritage.
