Stanbic Entebbe Golf Open returns with improved cash prizes

Professional and amateur golfers have more reason to sharpen their skills ahead of the third edition of the Stanbic Entebbe Golf Open, due October 5-9 at Entebbe Club.

The event returns with an improved kitty of Sh50m and Sh15m for the professionals and gross amateurs respectively, in an event that has had different champions in all categories since its inception.

Addressing the press on Thursday, Jacob Byamukama, the chairman of Entebbe Club, said this is the second biggest event on the Uganda Golf Union Calendar, which this year will coincide with Uganda's Independence celebrations.

He said over 300 players in the different clusters are expected to attend the five-day event with the Ugandan professionals up against some of the top pros from the region who competed in the Uganda Open early this month.

“We thank Stanbic for their continued partnership that has ensured the tournament continues to grow and we look forward to hosting many players as we also try to rival what we had in the Uganda Open,” Byamukama said.

“The professionals’ category is very competitive and this is another opportunity for them to showcase and cash in.”

“It is also very important that we grow the game in the amateur ranks because it from these that we get national team players, so, it is important that we horn their skills so that they are able to compete favourably with their peers across the continent. We shall also have a subsidiary event and we expect many people to attend this as well.

“We have ensured that the course is continuously well-maintained and we will ensure that participants enjoy their stay on the course and in Entebbe.” Byamukama stated.

Speaking on behalf of the sponsors, the Stanbic Chief Information Officer Rita Apell said the bank prides itself in calling their home and driving its growth.

“We are not only interested in financial investments per se but we are looking at growing communities and partnering with Entebbe Club is one of the ways that we partner to grow the communities,” Apell said.

“The event has grown in stature and significance both locally and regionally and what makes this year’s edition exceptional is the synergy between sport and business.

“The Annual East Africa Business Summitt Cocktail will be held alongside the Entebbe Open culminating in to a joint closing dinner at the spectacular 19th hole.

“That means a fusion of networking celebrations and unforgettable memories that Uganda can offer.” Apell stated.

“For each category we anticipate a showcase of talent, competitiveness, and a spirit of community engagement that Stanbic Bank deeply aligns with,”

She said golfers and customers who will use Stanbic Flexi Pay to transact during the event will enjoy exclusive discounts on green fees, drinks and beverages during the tournament.

“As a leading financial institution, we believe sport builds discipline, wellness, teamwork and community, all which are aligned with our purpose as Stanbic Bank.”