Golfers to launch pro bid in Nairobi
Feb 20, 2006
GOLF stars Deo Akope and Charles Yokwe will launch their professional careers in Nairobi on March 9, writes <b>William Muwonge.</b>
GOLF stars Deo Akope and Charles Yokwe will launch their professional careers in Nairobi on March 9, writes William Muwonge.
The former national amateur champions are lined up against the top names of golf in the 72-hole show at Karen County Club.
Last year’s champion Ricardo Gomez of Argentina will lead the way at the event which is part of the European Challenge Tour.
Akope and his counterpart will get the final round of practice at the course beginning Monday.
“We are going early to get the feel of the course, it is a competitive event and you have to be at your best form,†Akope said.
The event will have its traditional cut-off mark after 36 holes. Those who make the grade proceed for the last 36 holes.
Last year, Akope was three strokes below the cut-off on his second appearance in the event’s amateur category and seven behind in 2004. Yokwe is competing for the first time.
Akope, Yokwe, last year’s stroke-play amateur champion Stephen Kasaija, Denis Anguyo and Godfrey Mande joined the professional ranks last this month.
The group also has Uganda Golf Club teaching professional Sadi Atibu.
Last week, the Uganda Professional Golfers Association (UPGA), a body to cater for their interests was formed.
UPGA will be launched with a series of activities including a 54-hole tournament to draw professionals from East Africa next month.
UPGA is looking at eight to 12 events on the Uganda circuit this year. The professionals will also compete in Kenya and in South Africa for a start.
Ends
The former national amateur champions are lined up against the top names of golf in the 72-hole show at Karen County Club.
Last year’s champion Ricardo Gomez of Argentina will lead the way at the event which is part of the European Challenge Tour.
Akope and his counterpart will get the final round of practice at the course beginning Monday.
“We are going early to get the feel of the course, it is a competitive event and you have to be at your best form,†Akope said.
The event will have its traditional cut-off mark after 36 holes. Those who make the grade proceed for the last 36 holes.
Last year, Akope was three strokes below the cut-off on his second appearance in the event’s amateur category and seven behind in 2004. Yokwe is competing for the first time.
Akope, Yokwe, last year’s stroke-play amateur champion Stephen Kasaija, Denis Anguyo and Godfrey Mande joined the professional ranks last this month.
The group also has Uganda Golf Club teaching professional Sadi Atibu.
Last week, the Uganda Professional Golfers Association (UPGA), a body to cater for their interests was formed.
UPGA will be launched with a series of activities including a 54-hole tournament to draw professionals from East Africa next month.
UPGA is looking at eight to 12 events on the Uganda circuit this year. The professionals will also compete in Kenya and in South Africa for a start.
Ends