150 golfers for the second edition of the Hima Open in Fort Portal

The Hima Open, one of the most anticipated golf tournaments on the Uganda Golf Union calendar, is set to return for its second edition at Tooro Club in Fort Portal from July 10 to 12.

Over 150 golfers will be in action, starting with Uganda’s elite amateur players (gross players), led by defending champion Joseph Cwinyaai.

The tournament features a prize pool of sh8 million, the largest purse for amateurs to be awarded, which will be distributed among the top ten golfers, including the top six men and the top four women.

During the launch of the event at the Uganda Golf Club on Wednesday, Frank Kirungi, the chairman of Tooro Club, announced that the tournament will be held under the theme: "Swinging for Heritage: Cementing Bonds Through Golf and Culture." “Historically, we are known for producing some of the best golfers in the country, such as Joseph Cwinyaai, Peace Kabasweka, Ronald Rugumayo, and Ronald Otile, which is why we chose this theme,” Kirungi stated. He also mentioned that King Oyo Nyimba will participate in the tournament, further reinforcing the cultural aspect and strengthening their partnership with sponsors Hima Cement. “We are ready to host this tournament. The course is in excellent playing condition, and we expect over 150 golfers to compete over the three days, positively impacting both the golfers and our local business community. We anticipate that our businesses will benefit from the visiting golfers, making it an exciting event in Fort Portal,” Kirungi remarked. Joan Kitawona, the brand and communications manager at Hima Cement, expressed pride in associating with the game of golf, noting that the Hima Open is significant because it takes place in the community where they operate. “We believe that on this day, our bond will be strengthened. You have given us the opportunity to solidify our connections with the local community, and we look forward to partnering, interacting, and bonding with the people in the Rwenzori region,” she said. “We are eager to showcase what Tooro Club has to offer. We are committed to promoting the game of golf and nurturing young talents. We will provide special awards for the youngsters to help cultivate them into future stars. Additionally, we aim to strengthen our bonds with the communities in which we operate and increase our visibility and awareness among the golf community. Our commitment is to be with you, providing an enhanced package each year, and we will be here, ready to meet your expectations.”

The Tooro Club captain Robert Mugabe noted that the event is the biggest in the region and called on all golfers to come bot only to enjoy the game but also to explore Fort Portal the tourism city in the region.