Veteran golfers Steven Katwiremu and Edrae Kagombe were crowned champions of the Johnnie Walker Uganda Seniors Open in the men’s and ladies’ categories, respectively, after the final round at Entebbe Club’s par-71 course on Friday.
Katwiremu posted a total gross score of 165 after two rounds, enabling him to retain the title—a feat also achieved by John Muchiri, who won the tournament in 2021 and 2022.
In the final round, Katwiremu was five-over after teeing off on hole 15 before encountering a string of bogeys and double bogeys that threatened to force a playoff, as was the case last year. However, he managed to fend off Peter Obita’s challenge, with Obita settling for second place with a score of 167.
Although Katwiremu began the tournament in a secondary position, he took full control in the second round, playing the front nine at three-over. The only blemishes on an otherwise solid front were a bogey on the first hole and a double bogey on the challenging par-4 four. Between holes 5 and 14, he dropped just two strokes, both from a double bogey on the tenth hole.
Day one leader, Godfrey Onyango Matata, finished sixth with a total of 173. Former winner Muchiri finished third with 169, while Tony Kisadha and Isaac Mariera were fourth and fifth with scores of 171 and 173, respectively.
Meanwhile, in the women’s event, Edrae Kagombe shot 88 on Friday to secure victory with a total gross score of 178, two shots ahead of runner-up Catherine Pavie.
Katy Kabenge completed the podium with a score of 182. Jenina Nasimolo, one of the pre-tournament favorites, struggled on day two; her score of 94 left her in fourth place on the final leaderboard with 184.
“The day wrapped up with a dazzling 19th hole experience courtesy of Johnnie Walker, where the senior players were celebrated not only for their fierce competition but also for their triumphs on the green. From expertly crafted cocktails and gourmet food to premium bottle service and electric music, every detail was perfectly curated to ensure the seniors enjoyed an unforgettable evening.
Speaking at the event, Christine Kyokunda, the Johnnie Walker Uganda Brand Manager, praised the seniors for their dedication and how their efforts on the greens inspire future generations of golfers.
‘While today is about honoring your incredible achievements, I want you to know that you inspire all of us, especially people like me who are eager to take up the game. You are the living embodiment of Johnnie Walker’s mantra – Keep Walking,’ she said.”
“She also expressed her gratitude to the leadership of the Uganda Golf Union and Entebbe Club for their remarkable efforts in ensuring the tournament’s success. ‘To the Union, thank you for granting us yet another opportunity to be the title sponsors of this prestigious event – it truly means a lot. And to Entebbe Club, thank you for being such gracious hosts,’ she added.
The Johnnie Walker Uganda Golf Open is proudly supported by ABSA Bank, Pinnacle Security Limited, Aquafina, Case Medical Services, HH Solutions, Medisell, NCS, MTN, and NBS Sport.
