Moore’s commanding performance began with that brilliant first round, but the following days proved more challenging. He posted two-over and one-over scores in the subsequent rounds, finishing with a total of three-under-par. Nsanzuwera, however, wasn't going down without a fight. A scorching 68 on the final day put him in contention, but a costly bogey on the par-5, hole 15, derailed his charge, leaving him one-under for the tournament.
From the moment Dayne Jr. Moore fired a dazzling seven-under 64 on the opening day of the Professionals Open, it was clear he was the man to watch. Fast forward to Saturday, and the South Africa-based Zambian coolly clinched the 2024 Johnnie Walker Uganda Professional Open title, securing a two-stroke victory over Rwanda's formidable Celestin Nsanzuwera.
Dayne Jr. Moore
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Moore’s journey to victory wasn’t without its tense moments. A double-bogey on the 5th hole had many questioning if he could hold his lead, but the Zambian responded in style with a birdie on the 6th, maintaining his composure for the remainder of the round. Meanwhile, 56-year-old Kenyan veteran Dismas Indiza turned back the clock with an impressive 68 to finish third. Indiza's remarkable longevity and consistent performance over four days left him level par, further cementing his legendary status in the sport.
As the sun set on Entebbe, the excitement shifted from the greens to the glamorous 19th hole prize-giving ceremony. Johnnie Walker pulled out all the stops for a night to remember, with a chic 'masked glam' theme where guests dressed in black and gold. The whisky flowed freely, whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or mixed into sophisticated cocktails, while attendees indulged in a sumptuous dinner.
Lillian Mbabazi and her band set the tone with crowd-pleasing hits
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The entertainment was equally spectacular. Lillian Mbabazi and her band set the tone with crowd-pleasing hits, creating an electric atmosphere that kept the celebrations going well into the night.
Speaking at the event, Andrew Kilonzo, Managing Director of Uganda Breweries Limited, lauded the enduring partnership between the brewery and the Uganda Golf Union: “Golf, like Johnnie Walker, is steeped in tradition, precision, and excellence. It’s a game that demands perseverance, focus, and a commitment to progress—values that align perfectly with our brand. Just as golfers stride with purpose, Johnnie Walker embodies the spirit of walking with dedication toward success.”
Kilonzo also expressed his gratitude to the sponsors and partners who made the event a success, adding: “To the Uganda Golf Union and The Entebbe Club, thank you for your collaboration in making this tournament a resounding success. A special thank you to our sponsors for elevating not just this event, but the entire golfing community.”
Uganda Breweries Board Chairman, Jimmy Mugerwa, echoed the sentiment with a celebratory toast: “As we honour this year’s Uganda Open champion, it’s essential to acknowledge that no success is achieved alone. The collaboration, both on and off the course, has been crucial to making this event what it is. Let’s raise a glass to the champion and the enduring spirit of golf. As we say at Johnnie Walker, ‘Keep Walking’—a mantra for life, urging us all to keep pushing forward and striving for greatness.”
Uganda’s top performer was Philip Kasozi, finishing three-over after solid rounds of 71, 73, 71, and 72. Close behind was Abraham Ainamani at five-over, while Ronald Rugumayo struggled in his final round, carding an 80 to drop to 23rd.
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With the 2024 edition now wrapped up, all eyes turn to Lugazi Hill Golf Club, which will host the 2025 Uganda Open.
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