Otile top as the MTN Pro Tees start in Entebbe
Otile, who missed the cut at last week’s Johnnie Walker Uganda Open, recorded five birdies and a single bogey on the par-4 14th.
Ronald Otile rose to the occassion with a 4-under 67 as the MTN Pro Tees started in Entebbe. Photo by Michael Nsubuga
Ronald Otile and Rodell Gaita both carded opening-round scores of 4-under 67 to share the lead at the second MTN Pro-Tee Series Golf Tournament, which began on Tuesday at Entebbe Club.
Otile, who missed the cut at last week’s Johnnie Walker Uganda Open, recorded five birdies and a single bogey on the par-4 14th.
Gaita matched Otile’s five birdies and added an eagle on the 15th, but his round was set back by a bogey on the par-4 4th and a double bogey on the par-3 16th. Both players enter the second round of the 72-hole, sh20m prize money event tied at the top. Deo Akope and first-leg winner Abraham Ainamani also finished joint third after they each returned 3-under 68. They also registered five birdies and two bogeys each.
A three-way tie for sixth had Marvin Kibirige, Hussein Bagalana, and Herman Mutaawe, all scoring level 71.
“I’m tied with Gaita; he has been one of the outstanding performers in most events this year. He is consistent, never missed the top five in our events, but I’m ready to take him on this time.”
The tournament is a landmark professional golf initiative designed to strengthen Uganda's competitive golf ecosystem and give professionals a structured platform to grow their trade through a dedicated tournament series tailored specifically for them. The series is played exclusively by professional golfers and introduces a rigorous international-standard competition format that rewards consistency, excellence, and long-term performance.
Round 1: Top ten
Ronald Otile 67
Rodell Gaita 67
Deo Akope 68
Abraham Ainamani 68
Ronald Rugumayo 70
Marvin Kibirige 71
Hussein Bagalana 71
Herman Mutaawe 71
Grace Kasango 72
Ibrahim Ssemakula 73
Samuel Kato 73