Akope, Cwinya-ai vow to swing for clouds after Captain’s Bell
Cwinya-ai tore through the course record. PHOTO/EDDIE CHICCO
What you need to know:
Back From The Brink. Professional Akope roared back to form for his first title after a year whereas amateur captain Cwinya-ai won his third straight title after equaling Kitante course record.
Deo Akope, the champion professional of the seventh Absa Captain’s Bell, marked his return to winning ways with a composed performance that culminated in a stunning final round to seal an assailable eight-stroke victory at the par-72 Uganda Golf Club (UGC) Kitante course.
For his feat, Akope pocketed a Shs3.78m purse with his masterclass 11-under aggregate of 277 split over four-rounds with enviable scores of 72, 69, 68 and 68. The professionals’ kitty was Shs20m.
Reflecting on his form, Akope said: “I last really played good golf at the Uganda Open in 2020, where I came second to Robson Chinhoi. And my last victory was at this event last year. So it is a good omen for me. I have had some misfortune as well with injury and it’s been a tough road to recovery.”
Akope credited his resurgence to renewed fitness work under coach Eddie Okila, manager Paul Kaheru and a few tweaks in his routine and practice.
Three eagles return
“Vincent ‘Araali’ Byamukama advised me to switch putting styles. I now use a reverse grip similar to Scottie Scheffler’s. It’s helped my release and confidence,” added the 46-year-old.
His victory featured three eagles in four rounds, including a flawless 66 in a pre-tournament practice round with Okila which gave him belief.
Meanwhile, Joseph Cwinya-ai, captain of the Uganda national amateur team, continued his dream run, tying the course record of 63, previously held by Kenyan leftie Richard Ainley and Akope enroute to victory in the gross men’s category.
“It feels amazing to be part of that elite group. This is my third tournament win in a row — after the President’s Cup in Serena, my own Open in Fort Portal, and now this one,” said Cwinya-ai who stormed to a 16-shot victory with a spectacular three-round total of 200 after shooting 63, 71 and 66.
Highly motivated
Cwinyaai, using new semi-blade Mizuno irons, says his game has improved drastically, and he's motivated by recent changes in amateur golf regulations.
“Since amateurs are now allowed to earn prize money, it’s motivating. Winning now helps cover expenses. That inspires me to work harder and stay at the top,” added the man who pocketed Shs2m for his feat. The reigning Victoria Cup champion believes this might be his final year in the amateur ranks and has hinted at turning professional soon. “I've done all I can as an amateur. Now it’s time to pave the way for the next generation.”
The Captain’s Bell was not just a stage for Akope and Cwinyaai’s brilliance, Peace Kabasweka claimed the ladies top amateur prize of Shs800,000 with a composed four-stroke win after shooting 76, 77 and 81 for a total of 234 gross.
Namanya wins again
In the club events, Peter Tumusiime clinched the Club Championship crown, and former NMG Head of Sports Mark Namanya took the Kitante Cup, with both titles handed over by UGC captain Paul Charles Rukundo.
The senior category saw renowned administrator Joseph Bagabo win with a gross of 261, while youngsters like Jenny Tumwesigye and Gabriel Amani stole the spotlight in the juniors. David Wandera, the Absa Bank Uganda Managing Director, not only officiated at the colourful prize-giving but also took time to interact with golfers, reaffirming Absa’s long-term commitment to the game.
The lively subsidiary events, side bets, and giveaways—from longest drives to piga mingi - as well as the live and energetic performance from Afrigo Band offered moments of laughter and cheer, all backed by Absa’s generous sponsorship of Shs179m and visible corporate presence led by Board Chairman Keith Kalyegira and other top executives.
Absa Captain’s Bell Tournament
Main Event Winners
Kitante Cup
Mark Namanya bt Wilson Karuhanga
Club Championship
Peter Tumusiime bt Andrew Muhwezi
Gross Amateur Winners:
L: Peace Kabasweka (76, 77, 81) 234
M: Joseph Cwinya-ai (63, 71, 66) 200
Seniors:
Joseph Bagabo (88, 85, 88) 261
Professionals Winner
Deo Akope (72, 69, 68, 68) 277
Nearest To The Pin
L: Juliya Joan Nampewo
M: David Sekitoleko
Longest Drive
L: Alexis Akol
M: Charles Mubiiru
Subsidiary Overall Winners
M: Calvin Nasaaba 40 pts
L: Juliya Nampeewo 41 c/b pts
Junior Winners
B: Gabriel Amani 35 pts
G: Jenny Tumwesigye 18 pts
Senior Winners
M: Dominic Tumwesigye 36 c/b pts
L: Jennifer Opio 36 pts
Group Winners (Men)
A: David Kalenzi 39 c/b pts
B: Paul Ekudu 39 pts
C: Betram Mpora 39 c/b pts
Ladies
A: Jackie Kamunyu 39 pts
B: Edrae Kagombe 41 pts
Guest Winner
Matthew Nviiri 48 pts
Piga Mingi: Josephine Babirye
