'Super Lady' wins the 2011 USPA Award

By Charles Mutebi

FOUR months ago, Susan 'Super Lady' Muwonge was just the prettiest driver in Ugandan rally.

Now she is a legend, a ‘Super Lady’ not just in word but deed. Muwonge made history in October by becoming the first woman to win the national rally championship following eight years of hard work.

On Friday, Muwonge’s remarkable campaign led her to another milestone after she was crowned 2011 Uganda Sports Press Association (USPA) sports personality of the year. “I am overwhelmed,” Muwonge said after receiving the winner’s trophy at the USPA Gala.

The rally ace was speechless after edging out runners Annet Negesa, Moses Kipsiro and badminton star Edwin Ekiring for the accolade. Muwonge graced her golden moment in a catchy golden dress that was the perfect match for her flowing hair locks.

But Muwonge’s night was hardly the perfect one. Many a USPA member left Golf Course Hotel, Kitante, let down by the event, which was sponsored by Nile Special. To put it like the primary class teacher, there is room for improvement. 

To begin with, the event was billed as a ‘double header’, where 2010 and 2011 USPA winners would be recognised. But there was no mention of the 2010 achievers, who missed their moment because the Gala did not take place.

This Gala was also quite lifeless, thanks to the complete lack of entertainment, musical or otherwise.  There was a standup comedian but his act merely added to the tedium. And the food? Well, the less said about it the better. It certainly was not fit for the occasion let alone chief guest Vice President Edward Sekandi.

To top it off, the choice of Muwonge was not indisputable either. There were many who felt Negesa, who won three gold medals at continental level, should have been the winner not first runner up. And to make it worse, Muwonge wasn’t crowned and she was not dressed with the winner’s sash as is the USPA custom.

She simply received a trophy with no clear distinction.

Still, she will forever be the 2011 USPA Sports Personality of the Year and the event will forever remain the 2011 USPA Gala.