Kenyans dominate opening rounds as Otile keeps chase

 

The Great Rift Valley Golf Club and Kenya national team player shot three-over in the second round to remain top with a one-stroke lead ahead of teammate Daniel Nduva who improved his first-round score by five strokes to move to second.

 

Kenya's Samuel Njoroge maintained his third placing after today's round as Peter Mwangi who was second after the first round dropped to fourth place.

 

The Kenyans who are determined to win this year's tournament occupy the first five positions with William Odera occupying fifth place going into the third round of the annual event today.

 

It is the first time in recent years that Kenyan players take up the first five places after two rounds in the history of the Uganda Open.

 

But the Ugandan's lead by defending champion Ronald Otile won't leave the Kenyans to win without a fight and if he can play like he played Thursday, then a photo finish might be on the cards.

 

 Joseph Cwinya-ai is still the best-placed Ugandan in position six after the second round. PHOTO: Michael Nsubuga

Otile shot a four-under 68, the best score on the day to underline his title ambitions. That was eight strokes better than what he posted on the first day and is now six strokes within sight of the leader.

 

"Today's round was really good because I had a strategy for it because today, I struggled a lot with my putting but I worked on it last evening and this morning so I was very ready to challenge the course," Otile said.

 

"I want to play even better Friday and I think I can improve further. My putting was spot on today and hopefully, I can maintain it,"

 

Otile shot seven birdies and his perfect round was only interrupted by bogies on holes; 4, 7 and 12.

 

Another Ugandan Joseph Cwinyaai who played 76 on Wednesday, returned a one-over 73 and is now five strokes off, giving the Ugandans hope of a good chase in the subsequent remaining two rounds.

 

"I came with a plan of shooting 70 but again I started off badly and by the time I tried to recover it was late. But I'm happy I recovered well and since the days are running out, I expect to improve further," Cwinya-ai a member of the national team from Tooro Club said.

 

The tournament is sponsored by Castle Lite, Serena, UTB, Absa, Minet, Britam, Pepsi, Time Cop, NTV, Isuzu and Liquid Telecom.