The highly anticipated I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series 2024 commenced with an electrifying inaugural event at the renowned 71 Par Entebbe Club this past Saturday.

Marking a remarkable start to the season, the event boasted an unprecedented turnout, setting a new record as the most subscribed golfing event of 2024, with over 230 participants showcasing their golfing skills on the greens.

The series, building on the success of the 2023 season, saw its registration link closing prematurely on Tuesday due to overwhelming demand, as golf enthusiasts rushed to secure their spots within just three days of its release to the public.

Turnament Director Paul Kaheru expressed his delight at the staggering response from the golfing community.

A major drawcard for this year’s series was the introduction of the innovative ‘In regulation’ format for the opening round. This individual battle format required players to reach the greens within a specified number of shots. Failure to do so, coupled with an inability to score par or better, incurred penalty shots, adding an extra layer of challenge and excitement to the competition.

Following a day of intense competition, participants transitioned seamlessly into an evening of camaraderie and celebration at the 19th hole, sponsored by I&M Bank alongside partners such as Johnnie Walker, GA Insurance, Victoria Motors, Rwanda Air, Fenon, Serena Hotels, and Goldman Furniture. Amidst sumptuous dining and delightful Johnnie Walker cocktails, Robin Bairstow, CEO of I&M Bank, reiterated the institution’s commitment to fostering the growth of golf in Uganda.

“The I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series has evolved into a premier tournament, showcasing the best golfing experiences and talents in the country,” Bairstow remarked, highlighting the significant investment of four hundred and ninety million Ugandan shillings into the 2024 edition.

Notable winners of the evening included Peace Kabasweka, the Entebbe Club Ladies Captain, clinching the top spot in the Ladies category, while Perez Muhwezi emerged victorious in the men’s category with a score of 71 points on count back. Darius Mugisha claimed the title for the longest drive in the men’s category, with Lino Anguzu securing the nearest to the pin accolade.

With the first round concluded in spectacular fashion, the series now enters a three-month hiatus before resuming for the second round on June 29th.