Abeja backs Nakalembe for UGC Ladies Open title defence
Nakalembe is the top favourite to retain her title. PHOTO: EDDIE CHICCO
KAMPALA- Uganda Golf Club (UGC) Ladies Section captain Anne Abeja has named Irene Nakelembe as the front runner in the race to win this year’s UGC Ladies Open, which tees off on Friday.
Nakalembe returned a total of 152 gross over 36 holes to win the inaugural event last year.
“We expect Nakalembe to defend her title. Many will want to beat her but she remains the top favourite,” said Abeja as preparations for the second edition reached their peak with the launch yesterday at UGC, Kitante. The two day event, which had a caddies tournament start yesterday, will also have men play in a subsidiary category on Saturday.
Having attracted 213 golfers, of which 170 were women.
Numbers to grow
Last year’s competition attracted 231 golfers of which 70 were ladies and the numbers are even expected to grow this term. “The first event last year was a success and we only hope to go a step further this year,” added Abeja. With the Uganda Ladies Open a week away from Saturday’s event, a host of international players is expected from Nigeria, Kenya and Tanzania among others as they prepare for the big one.
The presence of a competitive field of players promises two days of good golf.
Tusker Malt have bankrolled the tournament expected to run in medal format where one only picks up the ball on holing it. The format offers more time on the course calling for more accuracy and resilience.
