Overview:
Equality and inclusion on show at Toro golf club as Rachael Natukunda forces second two play offs, demonstrating women can compete on equal footing with men.
In an exhilarating display of skill and determination, 16-year-old Justus Byaruhanga emerged as the champion of the inaugural Par 3 Championships held at the Toro Golf Club in Fort Portal, Uganda.
Organized by the afriyeagolfacademy.com and sponsored by The Social Golfer and Gogogo Sport, the tournament showcased exceptional talent from young golfers and proved to be a resounding success.
In an 18-hole gross competition over 30 young stars competed to qualify into a six player shootout on the 18th hole.
The two players finishing nearest to the pin went on to compete in the grand finale sadly, Rachael only narrowly missed out on victory when just par held par to take the crown.
Gracing the event was 98-year-old Emmanual Basaliza, widely recognized as the oldest golfer not only in Uganda but also in Africa.
Basaliza expressed his appreciation to Ian Mullins from The Social Golfer for the invitation to serve as the chief guest for the inaugural Par 3 Championships 2024.
The aging Basaliza took the opportunity to encourage and inspire junior golfers, stressing the significance of discipline, time management, and respect in their pursuit of the sport.
Ian Mullins, Editor of the Social Golfer expressed pride in sponsoring the event, recognizing it as an instrumental platform for junior golfers to test their skills, game strategy, and decision-making abilities.
Mullins added that this tried and tested format in the UK gives amateur players of what real pressure is.
“This was born out when the lowest gross score failed to hit the green in the shootouts. We believe this prepares the young golfers for what real competitive golf is all about.” Mullins remarked.
Byaruhanga expressed that this event will give him an opportunity to dig deep and admitted that in his first nine he had underperformed.
The victor expressed to his fellow competitors in his willingness speech that you must never give up.
He also eyes successful defence of the title next year (2025).
Isaiah Mwesige, CEO of the Afriyea Golf Academy, this event epitomizes the values of the academy.
Mwesige lauded all the organizers of the event, specifically coach Robert Happy (professional player) and Andrew Mugume for their smooth running and dedication to the event.
