Rugumayo takes early lead at the UGC Ladies Open starts

Ronald Rugumayo shot an opening 8-under 64 to take a four-stroke lead as the Uganda Golf Club Ladies Open started at Kitante on Thursday.

Rugumayo notched 7 birdies and an eagle on the par-5 hole-5 to set himself on course to grab the biggest share of the sh10m prize money in the 36-hole competition.

He enjoyed a perfect round; his card was only soiled by the only bogey in his round on the par-3 hole-6. He opened with a birdie on the par-5 hole 1 before registering par on the par-4 hole 2, which he followed with consecutive birdies on holes 3 and 4 and before the eagle that had him finish the first nine four-under.

On the back nine he picked another three birdies on holes 13, 16, and 17 to take a four-stroke lead ahead of Deo Akope, who shot an opening round four-under 68 punctuated by six birdies.

Defending champion Grace Kasango also enjoyed a perfect round, with his double bogey on the par-4 12 the only blemish en route to carding 3-under 69, five strokes away from the leader.

This year's event will feature a wider range of competitive categories, including Ladies Silver (gross amateur ladies), Ladies Bronze, Men’s Gross, Professional Golfers, a Subsidiary Tournament, and a Caddies Tournament. This makes it a truly inclusive celebration of the sport.

This year’s tournament seeks to promote women’s leadership, entrepreneurship, wellness, and networking through golf, while providing an excellent platform to connect with a premium audience in a relaxed and impactful environment.

Top ten and ties

Ronald Rugumayo 64

Deo Akope 68

Grace Kasango 69

Phillip Kasozi 70

Marvin Kibirige 70

Abraham Ainamani 71

Silver Opio 74

David Kamulindwa 74

Rodell Gaita 75

Nasser Mackie 76

Ronald Otile 76

Herman Mutaawe 76

Hussein Bagalana 76