Golfer Muhumuza still focused on pro ranks

Finishing second twice in three years in the Tusker Malt Lager Uganda Open will not deter Toro golfer Adolf Muhumuza from his pursuit of turning professional.

Muhumuza was beaten to the championship by Ronald Otile at Kitante Golf Course on Saturday having lost to Willy Kitata in 2014 at the same venue.

With the top ten amateurs now being given a chance to play in the Professionals Open for a chance to make the cut and qualify through that window, Muhumuza can't wait to play in the event due, August 30-September 3.

"I start training tomorrow (Monday) because like I said before, I want to turn pro. Otherwise I will have to talk to my sponsors Britam Insurance to see how I can start playing in the Asian qualifiers," Muhumuza said.

Despite finishing second Muhumuza played some of his best golf during this year's tournament registering two eagles in the 72 hole competition.

This year's Uganda Golf Open did not only record the biggest number of entries in the main amateur event but also recorded some firsts that made it unique in a way.

The event attracted 211 golfers in both the main and subsidiary event of the annual event, 121 more than during last year's tournament. There were also many foreign players more than there was last year.

For the first time the open had a staked prize of a sh250m car for whoever hits a hole in one and despite the amateurs missing it, it will still be up for grabs during the professionals' event, due August 30-September 3.

Mac East Africa Country General Manager Khaled Farid (L) presents a trophy to Anthony Agaba one of the winners from the subsdiary event. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

Models stand beside the hole-in-one prize; a Chevrolet Trailblazer. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

An all-expense paid trip to Abu Dhabi courtesy of Etihad Airways was also another first in the history of the Uganda Open.

The trip comes complete with three-night's complimentary accommodation at one of the leading hotels in the UAE's capital and an unforgettable experience of playing at one of city's championship-standard golf courses. 

Meanwhile Mac East Africa-Uganda country General Manager Khaled Farid whose company offered the new Chevrolet Trailblazer as a reward to a player who will achieve the amazing feat of a hole-in-one shot, has promised to continue making the open memorable.

"We are delighted to be associated with this premier sporting event, especially because our support contributes directly to making this year's edition more exciting and memorable for participants," Khaled stated. The car is still up for grabs in the Professionals Open.