The ladies’ division of the 2022 Tusker Malt Uganda Golf Open, which was played at the par-72 Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort and Spa’s course in Kigo, was won on Saturday by Martha Babirye of the Uganda Golf Club.
After three rounds over three days and 54 holes, Babirye, who has a handicap of 1, earned an overall score of 17 over par 233 (gross). Meron Kyomugisha, who plays for Palm Valley Golf and Country Club, came in second with a score of 22 over par.
After winning the 2019 and 2020 Uganda Ladies Golf Opens at Lake Victoria Serena and Uganda Golf Club, respectively, Babirye now holds three of the tournament’s titles.
Babirye acknowledges that her victory at the Lake Victoria Serena was the result of a minor shift in behavior.
“I did not drink for two weeks as I prepared for this tournament, and my ex-boyfriend David has been supportive,” Babirye said. Then, at the 18th hole, she treated herself to a glass of Tusker Malt Lager before joining the group at the 19th hole.
Peace Kabasweka of the Toro Club, who was expected to challenge Babirye on the final day after narrowing the gap to one stroke after round two, faded on day three after shooting 13 over par 85. Overall, she scored 241.8, which is 25 over par.
Babirye maintained the lead throughout the competition, earning a 4-shot advantage after the first round on Thursday, during which he finished at 3 over par. Day two saw Babirye play poorly, returning 8 over par 80. Kabasweka was able to catch up to her by one stroke after she had managed 5 over 77 in round two.
She improved with a 6-over 78 in the final round to finish with a gross score of 233. However, Kyomugisha played better in the third round, recording three birdies on the front nine and one on the back nine.
Her scores in the first two rounds prevented her from winning, even though she had an overall 2 over par 74. However, after the women’s competition, four further competitions—the Seniors Open (July 14–15), Amateur Open (July 19–22), Pro-Am (July 25), and Professional Open—will be held (26th-29th).