As Uganda gets ready to host yet another edition of the Tusker Malt Uganda Open Ladies Golf Tournament, all preparations are set for the official tee off on September 7, with the ’15-woman’ Tanzanian team already in the country.
The highly-lucrative 75th Edition of the annual tournament is slated for September 7 – 30, 2017 at the Uganda Golf Club, and leading the Tanzania team are seasoned star players like two-time winner Angel Eaton and the highly rated Vicky Elias. The other Tanzanian players are Ayne Magombe, Hawa Wanyenche, Sarah Denis, Sophia Mathias, Tanya William, Mwanaidi Ally, Chiku Elias, Rehema Athumani, Habiba Juma, Habiba Sanze, Madina Iddi, Neema Olomi and Lina Francis.
The Shs500 million tournament is expected to play host to over 150 lady players from across Africa, and Uganda will be looking at the inform Irene Nakalembe to carry the hopes of the nation after defending champion Flavia Namakula turned professional.
Nakalembe, a Handicap 5 player, says she expects to put up formidable competition against the Tanzanians and the other players from Zimbabwe, Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi and Nigeria.
Maxi Byenkya, the President of the Uganda Ladies Golf Union reiterated the readiness of the teams and the Union as well as the course, saying all preparations have been set for a successful Open.
Grace Namutebi, Uganda Breweries Limited, Brand Manager Premium Beers said: “On behalf of Uganda Breweries Limited and Tusker Malt Lager, we’re happy that countries have sent in their star players. This shows how the tournament has grown and is perceived in the region and on the continent. Our aim is to make it one of the most sought after golf tournaments on the continent. We wish the Uganda ladies all the best ahead of their play.”
Tusker Malt Lager injected over Shs500 million into this year’s tournament to show its support for the development of golf in Uganda. There has also been an increase in the cash sponsorship from Shs230 million to Shs250 million.
