One of the highest prized amateur events in the country, the Serena 63 Golf Series returns on May 25 at the picturesque Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort and Spa.

The tournament offers Ugandan golfers from all clubs a leeway to play at the Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort and Spa as much as they wish following the launch of the event that will be held over 32 weeks.

The I&M Bank and Serena-powered event was given birth to by Kenyan professional Dismas Indiza’s heroics that saw him set a new course record of 63 during the 2019 Ugandan Open. It will require golfers to play at least 26x18-hole rounds of golf over 32 weeks to qualify for prizes.

Addressing a press conference during the launch of the second edition at the Serena course on Thursday I&M Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs Annette Nakiyaga expressed enthusiasm for the tournament's growth and its alignment with the bank's vision.

"At I&M Bank Uganda, our vision is centered on creating shared value for our stakeholders, including avid golf enthusiasts. Our longstanding support for the game of golf underscores our belief in its ability to mirror the bank's success. Through strategic partnerships like the Serena 63 Golf series, we aim to continue our legacy of promoting the sport across the region," remarked Nakiyaga.

"Our dedication to the growth of golf in Uganda remains steadfast. We are thrilled to extend our support for yet another season of the Serena 63 golf series. This season holds extra significance for us as we commemorate our Golden Jubilee. That’s why we are opening up the tournament to all golfers, as a gesture of gratitude to the golfers because we want to celebrate this with the people who have supported us over the years,” she added.

LVSGR Golf Manager Theo Van Royen said the green fees for this year’s edition have been reduced to $40 (sh150,000).

“The tournament is open to all golfers, regardless of their mother clubs and we are extending a standard fee of 40 dollars per round for weekdays and weekends for all participants throughout the year,” he added.

Duncan Lewa, the newly appointed General Manager of Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort said the hotel is more than ready to host golfers throughout the series.

"We are more than ready to welcome golfers throughout the series. Our commitment extends beyond mere accommodation; we've curated a special experience with discounted rates for single and double occupancy rooms at $163, we invite golfers to linger and savour every moment of their stay,” he said.

Throughout the tournament, golfers will vie for coveted prizes, including a one-year membership at Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort and Spa ($7500), quarterly prizes based on the order of merit, and themed prizes to add excitement to the competition. The bank will also extend invitations to five winners to participate in the prestigious I&M Invitational Golf Tournament in Kenya The overall winners will be announced on November 30.