The I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series is set to return for its 2025 season, boasting a significant financial injection and a lineup of exciting new formats designed to challenge and entertain golfers.
The series, launched on Monday at a press briefing held at I&M Bank’s Kingdom Kampala headquarters, has secured a record Sh650 million in sponsorship, marking a Sh160 million increase from the previous year.
The 2025 edition will officially tee off on Saturday, March 15th, at the Entebbe Club, followed by quarterly events on March 31st, August 9th, and culminating in the grand finale on November 29th.
I&M Bank CEO Robin Bairstow emphasized the series’ commitment to more than just golf, highlighting its role in fostering community and growth.
“The I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series is beyond just enjoying the game of golf. We are proud to have impacted the communities that make the game of golf more enjoyable. Last year, we donated Shs 20 million to support school-going caddies and children of the course maintenance staff at the Entebbe Club. We are committed to doing more this year,” Bairstow stated.
Adding to the excitement, Bairstow revealed a unique partnership with the Xcalibur Foundation, promising a special guest appearance by a renowned football legend at one of the 19th hole experiences.
“We look forward to seeing the competition grow, bringing new experiences, and I believe the new formats of play for each event will bring out the best in every player, and shall create an exciting and competitive atmosphere for all participants,” he said.
Katogo Captain Elly Mukasa expressed his gratitude to the sponsors and golfers, promising a season filled with challenging formats, vibrant 19th hole experiences, and strong camaraderie.
“Organizing the I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series is no easy task, because expectations grow with each quarterly event. Together with our partners, we go through a lot to maintain the high standards and ensure we meet the expectations of all golfers. But this year promises to be an exciting one,” Mukasa said.
He also revealed plans to expand the series’ regional footprint, with an event scheduled in Kigali, Rwanda, building on last year’s successful cross-border event in Kenya.
Entebbe Club Captain Serwano Walusimbi praised the series for its positive impact on the golf community, particularly its support for caddies and course maintenance staff.
“The series has uplifted those who often go unnoticed—the hardworking caddies and course management staff. It has not only extended financial support towards them, but also made them feel valued,” Walusimbi said, assuring that Entebbe Club is fully prepared to host the 2025 series.
Tournament Director Paul Kaheru unveiled the innovative formats of play for the upcoming season.
The first quarter will introduce the “Rejected” format, a team event with a unique twist where opposing teams decide each other’s second shot positions, with the option to reject and choose their own on six holes.
The second quarter will feature “For Better or Worse,” a pairs format allowing mixed teams to strategically choose which holes to record their better or worse scores, with limited club usage on better score holes.
The third event will see the return of the “Daytona” format, a pairs event where combined nett scores determine the team’s score.
The grand finale will feature the “In Regulation” format, an individual competition where players must land on the green in regulation or face a one-stroke penalty, unless they score par or better.
Adding to the thrill, the series will continue to offer a hole-in-one prize car, an Outlander Sport (X-force), courtesy of Victoria Motors and insured by GA Insurance. Johnnie Walker Uganda will enhance the 19th hole experience with premium cocktails and bottle offers.
The I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series 2025 is also supported by Rwanda Air, NBS Sport, Fenon Events, Serena Hotels, Time Cop Security, and Goldman’s Luxury.
