31 August 2024 | Golf

Joseph Reagan Akena claimed the 2024 Johnnie Walker Uganda Golf Amateurs Open played at the lakeside course of Entebbe Club.

The 19-year-old Lugazi Hills and Country Club member amassed a gross total of 287. He opened with an identical 2-over 73 score in the first two rounds, playing a course level 71 on the third day to take the overall leaderboard and a 1-under-70 score on the final day.

Akena smiled to victory with a successful half-meter putt on the 18^th hole before hundreds of fans after his closest challenger Joseph Cwinya-ai had fumbled a one-meter putt.

“I am excited to win the Open. It comes as a surprise since my objective was initially a top-three finish. As the tournament grew, I believed in myself and I am glad to be the champion,” Akena said after receiving the trophy.

During the 72-hole action, Akena played a total of 12 birdies, 45 pars and 15 bogeys.

The student at Juliana High School in Lugazi dedicated this victory to his parents, coaches, fellow players, and members at Lugazi Hills and Country Club.

“It has been a tough week. When I came here (Entebbe), I knew I would be among the top cream of players and I worked hard for the trophy that I dedicate to my parents, coaches, fellow players, and members at Lugazi. I will return to school to complete my A-Level as I also continue to play golf,” he added.

Joseph Cwinya-ai, the 2022 winner, took the runners-up slot with 288 gross in 4 rounds.

Titus Okwong finished third with 291 with Ibrahim Ssemakula (297) and Michael Tumusiime (298) completing the top 5.

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