Akope eyes Challenge Cup slot

Aug 12, 2003

NATIONAL champion Deo Akope is one of several stars fighting for places on the East African Challenge Cup golf team.

By William Muwonge

NATIONAL champion Deo Akope is one of several stars fighting for places on the East African Challenge Cup golf team.

Uganda Golf Union (UGU) will today stage two qualifying rounds at the Kitante course and then pick a nine-man team for the 72-hole matchplay show in Nairobi August 28-30.

UGU secretary Nick Okwir said yesterday that the qualifiers are restricted to players below handicap ten.

“The team is supposed to be in Nairobi on August 26,” Okwir said.
Akope, Stephen Kasaija and George Kituku, who were part of the 2001 Cup winning team, registered for the qualifiers.

The win was Uganda’s first at the annual tournament after a two-year reign by Kenya.

John Waigo, Charles Yokwe, Godfrey Mande, Dick Lago, Innocent Opio and Shaban Lwanga are also seeking places on the team.

Golfers in Tanzania, last year’s champions, and Kenya are also gearing up for the competition. Rwanda and Burundi could make their maiden appearance.

“The two countries have been invited to compete in the championship,” Okwir said.

There will be two rounds of singles, one each of four-ball better-ball and foursomes action.

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