The Lamour Bar and Lounge in Kansanga hosted day one of the 4th edition Grand Open Pool Championship. The three-day tournament will run under the theme of promoting diversity within the sport.
The event features an array of categories, including singles for both men and women, doubles (a new addition), and the groundbreaking inclusion of People With Disabilities (PWDs).
While top-seeded player Caesar Chandiga is absent, representing Uganda in the JOY Heelball World Tour in China, the competition remains fierce, with players vying for victory in his absence.
The absence of notable players like Ibrahim Sejjemba and past Grand Open winners adds an air of unpredictability to this year’s lineup.
Tournament Director Donald Ampumuza emphasized the event’s commitment to inclusivity and explained the decision to incorporate PWDs into the competition.
“People with disabilities have long been involved in pool, either playing or watching. It was time to officially include them,” he said.
He also revealed the prizes awaiting the winners, with substantial rewards for top performers in each category.
In the men’s division, the winner will receive three million Ugandan shillings, with the second-place finisher earning 1.5 million shillings.
For women, the champion will walk away with 1.5 million shillings, with prizes ranging down to the 8th position.
In the doubles category, the winning pair will claim 400,000 shillings, while the runners-up will receive 200,000 shillings.
PWDs competing in the tournament will also be rewarded, with the winner receiving 200,000 shillings and the second-place finisher awarded 100,000 shillings.
Kasozi Joseph, the defending champion, expressed his determination to retain his title, promising his fans that he would do whatever it takes to emerge victorious.
Participants who spoke to NBS Sport said they were excited to take part in the Grand Open Championship, with expectations running high for the remaining matches.
