Mwenda bags UGC April mug as Kenyan envoy Owinow signs out
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Robinson Mwenda carded 66nett to win the Stanbic Bank Monthly Mug tournament at Kitante on Saturday.
But despite topping the day’s action that had over 120 golfers in action, his achievement was overshadowed by the sending off of Kenyan Ambassador General George Owinow, an ardent golfer and patron to the Uganda Golf Club to whom the day’s action was dedicated to.
Owinow has been the Kenyan High Commissioner to Uganda since July 2022. His love and dedication to the game has endeared him to many with his charming character easily noticeable by every golfer.
In his farewell message to the ambassador, UGC captain Paul Rukundo described him as an exceptional gentleman and golfer who exhibited a competitive spirit and embodied the very essence of camaraderie and sportsmanship.
“Grace on the green, camaraderie on the 19th. You have fostered friendships across the fairways, always ready with a warm smile and words of wisdom. Your dedication to serving people is admirable but its your unwavering commitment to fostering the friendliness amongst Kenya and Uganda, always preaching inclusivity and togetherness, that we shall cherish the most,” Rukundo stated.
“You have enriched our golf club with not only your golfing prowess but with your genuine warm and infectious enthusiasm for the people. Though your tour of duty is coming to an end, it is embedded into the fabric of UGC where it will remain intact.
“We at the UGC are saddened by your departure but we understand the call of home. You not only leave admirers of your golfing skills but also friends who will miss you dearly. We wish you all the best in your future endeavours,” Rukundo stated before UGC trustee Charles Kareeba presented a gift to him.
The different winners pose with their trophies at the Uganda Golf Club after the April mug competition, on April 27, 2024. (All Photos by Michael Nsubuga)
Owinow praised the Ugandans for their hospitality and said he had had a wonderful experience; workwise, social-wise, and in golf where he has helped several individuals start the game.
The one-day tournament was also attended by golfers from Nakuru and another group of Kenyan golfers based in Dubai including his son Kevin Owinow who all attended in his honour to give him a befitting send-off.
Top Players-April Mug
Overall winner
Robnison Mwenda 66nett
Group A
Paul Nuwagaba 72c/b
Vincent Katutsi 72
Group B
Sam Ssejjaaka 70
Mark Namanya 71
Group C
Nester Byamugisha 71
Collins Apuoyo 72
Group A-Ladies
Peace Kabasweka 72
Gloria Mbaguta 78
Group B
Susan Tashobya 71
Jackie Kamunyu 78
Guest winner
John Nganga 70
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