Wanderema claims victory at Namulonge Homecoming golf tournament

Steven Wanderema achieved his first overall victory at the third Namulonge Homecoming golf tournament, a notable achievement in his two-year golfing career. Playing on the par-69 course, Wanderema, with a handicap of 25, carded an exceptional 42 points to outshine a field of 139 participants.

“I feel so delighted. I have been winning but I have never been the overall winner,” Wanderema expressed, crediting his employer Equity Bank and dedicated practice for his success. His strong performance was evident early on, securing 38 points by the halfway mark, aided by seven pars on the front nine.

The tournament, held on Independence Day, also featured exciting hole-in-one challenges for a Suzuki A-Cross car and a Yamaha motorbike, though these prizes remained unclaimed. The event served as a tribute to the Mary Louise Simkins Memorial Golf Club’s resilience and history.

Established in the 1970s as part of the Empire Cotton Research Station, the course faced difficulties in the 1980s but was revived in 1987 by Chuck and Mary Louise Simkins. The club was later named in Mary Louise’s honor following her passing in 1991.

Club chairman Herbert Kamuntu outlined ambitious plans for the future, including course expansion to 18 holes and refurbishments to the clubhouse and changing rooms, with the support of the National Crop Resources Research Institute (NaCRRI).

Results from the tournament saw Kenneth Katarikawe win the Seniors category, while Luke Nyakarahuka and Kenneth Tumusiime topped Group A and B for men respectively. Prossy Zawedde and Josephine Nakawunde were the winners in the ladies’ groups. Ivan Alinaitwe and Sarah Nduhukire claimed the longest drive awards, with Micheal Tumusiime and Sarah Nduhukire nearest to the pin.

This event was a celebration of golf and the enduring spirit of the Namulonge club. Further details can be found at the Daily Monitor.