David Plenderleith, a seasoned golfer with 63 years of experience, currently leads the Serena 63 Golf Series at Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort and Spa, Kigo.
At 70 years old, Plenderleith, also the defending champion of the I&M Bank backed series, aims to retain his title with an early lead over the competition. His dominance was evident during the first quarterly order of merit awards session, held on Saturday, May 25, where it was revealed that he was leading the 70-player pack.
Plenderleith, who is a resident of the Serena Golf estate, currently has 179 points, 16 points ahead of second placed Duncan Kaggwa who capped the podium last season. Leena Halai is third placed off 147 points. The selection of the best performers was based on their five best rounds.
Reflecting on his performance over the days, Plenderleith attributed his success to consistency, citing the privilege of residing in the Serena Golf estate, which allows him ample opportunity to play regularly.
“I am not surprised to be the leader of the series because I have been one of the most consistent players. I am privileged to be living in this estate and that gives me the privilege to play at any time I want,” Plenderleith said adding that; “This event has really been great to the members because it gives us a reason to play regularly.”
John Byabagambi (134 points), Jadu Patel (118 points), Gloria Nanyonga (108 points), Sahil Halai (107 points), Ssebale Kato (101 points), and Maria Odido (100 points) are among the few players in the series to have reached triple figures in points.
I&M Bank, who are the headline sponsors of the series alongside Serena Hotels, expressed delight upon conclusion of the first quarter of the sequence.
“I&M Bank is privileged to support this series alongside our partners. Together, we’re dedicated to fostering the growth of golf in Uganda,” stated I&M Bank CEO Robin Bairstow. He emphasized the vital role of golfers in the event’s success, acknowledging their contribution. “We can’t achieve this alone. Thank you for your support,” Bairstow added.
The event doubled as the club’s monthly Mug competition. Annette Nakiyaga, Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs at I&M Bank, presented awards to numerous mug winners, many of whom participate in the Serena 63 Series.
“On behalf of I&M Bank, it was a privilege to celebrate excellence in golf today. As we mark our 50th anniversary next month, we’re honored to be part of this series that embodies the spirit of of dedication and achievement,” Nakiyaga said.
In the men’s category (members), John Muchiri emerged as the overall winner with a score of 74 nett. John Byabagambi claimed victory in Group A, securing a score of 75, while Ronnie Kasirye closely trailed as the first runner-up with a score of 77. Group B witnessed a tight competition, with Prem Patel clinching the top spot with a score of 79, followed closely by Kartick Halai as the first runner-Up, also with a score of 79.
Among the Ladies (members), Katy Kabenge emerged leader with a score of 76. Gloria Nanyonga stood as the first runner-up, matching Kabenge’s score of 76.
For the guests, Ruth Mugisha secured the top spot with a score of 68. Henry Kibuuka and Picole Lukyamuzi followed closely as the first and second runners-up in the Guest category, with scores of 69 and 72 respectively.
Additionally, side bets were given for Nearest to the Pin, won by Daniel Opwonya, and Longest Drive, achieved by Lwanga Emmanuel.
The next quarterly order of merit awards session will happen on August 10 while the grand finale will happen on November 10.
