Kabasweka overcomes early struggles to win UGC Ladies Open
The Tooro Club member and national team player recorded seven birdies across three rounds, securing both the championship and the largest share of the Shs11 million prize money, taking home Shs2.2 million.
Peace Kabasweka (right) is congratulated by the UGC Lady Captain Gloria Mbaguta after the UGC Ladies Open at Kitante. Photo by Michael Nsubuga
Peace Kabasweka posted a total score of 15-over 231 to win the 8th Uganda Golf Club (UGC) Ladies Open at Kitante on Saturday.
The Tooro Club member and national team player recorded seven birdies across three rounds, securing both the championship and the largest share of the Shs11 million prize money, taking home Shs2.2 million.
Martha Babirye finished second with a score of 231 but won the count-back against Meron Komugisha to claim Shs1.4 million. Komugisha received Shs1.2 million, while Meron Kyomugisha earned Shs0.9 million.
Although the scores were modest, Kabasweka achieved her second championship victory, having first won in 2022. She began with an 8-over 80, trailing first-round leader Komugisha by five strokes. Komugisha maintained her lead after the second round.
Peace Kabasweka (3rd right) poses with L-R: Martha Babirye Meron Kyomugisha, Judith Komugisha ULGU president Rita Apell and UGC Lady Captain Gloria Mbaguta after the UGC Ladies Open at Kitante. Photo by Michael Nsubuga
However, Kabasweka delivered a composed final round, shooting 2-under 70, while Komugisha and Babirye, who had posted the best second-round score of 75, struggled in the dry conditions.
"I almost lost hope, but today when I was coming, I told myself, 'Peace, it is not over until it's over, and anything can happen.' So, I was so determined to change my game today, which I did," Kabasweka said.
"Two days back, the course was dry. I usually suffer with my wedges when the course is dry. Actually, today's rain was a blessing on my side. I couldn't control my balls in any way earlier. That's why I struggled in the opening rounds."
The Ugandan ladies are now looking to perform even better in the upcoming Uganda Ladies Open on the same course, scheduled for August 13-15.
"I am looking forward to representing Uganda very well. I have played a number of tournaments in preparation for the Uganda Open, and I thank my sponsors, MUNIG Engineering Solutions, for the support that has enabled me to participate in this UGC Ladies Open this year," Kabasweka stated.
"I thank my opponents. They gave me a good pace. They are good players. I believe if they put in more effort, we shall have our trophy remain here come the Uganda Ladies Open."
For the last two years, the championship has been won by Tanzanian and Kenyan opponents.
Edrae Kagombe topped the net category with a score of 207 over the three rounds, with Rebecca Muwanguzi and Joan Nampewo scoring 219 each. The other podium finishers included Gloria Mbaguta, Resty Nalutaaya, and Jenny Tumwesigye for their outstanding performances on each of the days.
The top players in the bronze category, who played over 36 holes, included Christine Abbo (184 gross), Flavia Auma (128 net), Prossy Zawedde (131), and Stella Aine (132).
The top seniors included Ruth Ssali, Jeninah Nasimolo, Rose Azuba, Steven Katwiremu, and Dennis Tindyebwa, while the best juniors were Jethro Mugisha (40 points), Lucas Kimara (35), and Nsiima Muzahura (31 points).
Amon Bwambale spiced up the tournament during the elite men's competition under the same tournament with a hole-in-one at the par-3 hole 9. He used a Mizuno 9-iron and a Titleist Red ball to achieve the rare feat.
Top five
Peace Kabasweka 80 81 70 231
Martha Babirye 82 75 80 237
Judith Komugisha 75 81 81 237
Meron Kyomugisha 81 81 76 238
Lillian Koowe 81 86 78 245
Joyce Kisembo 81 88 77 246