Kamuntu, Basiima win the Katogo Golf Series season finale

Herbert Kamuntu and Bridget Basiima returned scores of 65 and 69 nett, respectively, to top their categories as the I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series concluded at Entebbe Club on Saturday.

As a reward for their achievements in the event, played under the ‘Double Bogey Danger’ format, the two golfers will choose from flying to Dubai, Johannesburg, Nairobi, or Kigali, courtesy of co-sponsors RwandAir.

Playing off a handicap of 20, Kamuntu secured his first overall win ahead of over 130 players, having started golfing about three years ago.

“I’m excited for this win but a little bit underwhelmed because I could have played better,” Kamuntu said. “It was an interesting format, and I made sure I didn't get double bogeys on the first four holes. It was more about game management and playing safe, and I had to remind myself about that throughout.

Ladies Group A winner Joan Nampewo (right) receives her prizes from Kin Karisa after the Katogo Golf Series final at Entebbe Club, December 7, 2024. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

“It was like a lesson for me, and I took it hole-by-hole. I was cautious because that is what the format demanded. I scored about five pars where it mattered because I was able to finish with all my clubs, having recovered from double bogeys on holes 6 and 17,” Kamuntu added.

The event recognized its first gross winner, Ezra Muzahura, who carded 2-over 73. He said it was a true reward for someone who had challenged the course the way it was designed to be played.

“I’m excited that I’m the first winner of this category, though I have won from Group A before in this championship over the last two seasons,” Muzahura noted.

I&M Bank Executive Director and Chief Operations Officer, Sam Ntulume, highlighted the success of the Katogo Golf Series, attributing it to the collective efforts and participation of all stakeholders involved.

I&M Bank Executive Director and Chief Operations Officer, Sam Ntulume (3rd left) and RwandAir Sales Manager Peter Kamuti (2nd right) and other staff and Katogo Chairman Elly Mukasa (left) after the Katogo Golf Series at Entebbe Club. Photo by Michael Nsubuga

"I am extremely excited to witness yet another successful edition of the I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series. This event has grown to become a significant part of our local golf calendar, and we are proud to continue supporting the golfing community," Ntulume remarked.

Katogo Captain Elly Mukasa expressed his gratitude to all participants, sponsors, and organizers who made the 2024 I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series a success. He emphasized the importance of such events in fostering camaraderie among golfers and elevating golf across the region.

"This year's series has been nothing short of amazing. The enthusiasm from players, the support from I&M Bank and other sponsors, and the growing interest from the golfing fraternity have all contributed to making this season memorable. We look forward to an even bigger and better series next year," Mukasa remarked.

Annette Nakiyaga, the Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at I&M Bank, revealed that after its debut in Kenya last month, the series is set to expand to Rwanda, with a Kigali leg in the pipeline.

"The season has been amazing; it's been spectacular. We've had twists and turns. Last month, we were at Limuru Country Club in Kenya. We've seen ideas well executed, new partners joining us, and now here we are. Next year, we’re adding a Rwandan leg," Nakiyaga said.

The event was crowned by an electrifying 19th hole experience hosted by comedian Patrick Idringi, aka Salvado. The legendary Afrigo Band kept golfers and guests dancing until the early hours of Sunday morning with their afro and old school tunes.

The I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series is sponsored by Victoria Motors, Johnnie Walker, Serena Hotels, GA Insurance, Fenon Events, Goldman Furniture, NBS Sport, and Timecop Security.

Overall winners

Herbert Kamuntu 65nett

Bridget Basiima 69c/b

Gross winner

Edgar Muzahura 73

Group A

Twinemanzi Tumubweinee 66

Peter Magona 67

Andrew Baguma 69c/b

Group B

Gerald Ataremwa 66c/b

Simon Onadra 66

Nathan Mubiru 67

Group C

Edward Nangono 69

Ceaser Scott Barole 70

Bryan Mbasa 72

Group A

Joan Nampewo 69

Berna Musanabera 73

Jackie Kamunyu 76

Group B

Florah Ihunde 73

Rosette Tugume 75

Sandra Komakech 79

Nearest to the pin

Joan Nampewo

Arthur Gwaku

Longest drive

Berna Musanabera

Andrew Baguma