Uganda targets glory at Beach Woodball World Cup

Thomas Khedi and Christine Birungi have been entrusted with leading Team Uganda as they set their sights on winning the 4th World Cup Beach Woodball Championship and the inaugural Thailand Open International Beach Woodball Championship.

The tournaments will be held at Laem Charoen Beach in Rayong, Thailand, from September 7–13, 2025. The World Cup runs from September 7–12, while the Thailand Open will take place from September 9–13.

Khedi and Birungi, both seasoned athletes, have been named captains of the eight-member squad, heading the men’s and women’s teams respectively. Khedi will lead a lineup featuring Amanyire Gilles, Akram Matovu, and George Guma. Birungi will captain the women’s side comprising Rhonah Namutebi, Anita Nakyazze, and Jackline Naula.

Coach Onesimus Atamba expressed confidence in his team’s readiness and potential.

“We have a mixed team of both young and experienced players, but I’m impressed with their response to training. Hitting 32 strokes is good enough to give me confidence,” Atamba said.

The team has been training at Bunjako Beach in Mpigi District and is scheduled to depart for Thailand on Saturday.

Uganda will compete in the fairway team event, stroke team event, and stroke singles. However, they will not participate in the doubles category.

Team captain Khedi echoed his coach’s optimism, emphasizing their preparedness and determination.

“I’ve competed on the world stage many times, as has Amanyire. We’re ready and committed to supporting our teammates who are making their debut. Our focus is on winning medals for Uganda,” Khedi said.

Uganda has a strong track record in international beach woodball. At the 2023 World Cup in Malaysia, the team secured four medals. In 2019, they earned a silver medal but were forced to withdraw from the 2024 edition due to financial constraints.