The second leg of the Pearl of Africa (POA) Golf Series got off to an exciting start at the par-71 Entebbe Golf Club, with Herman ‘Deco’ Mutebi and David Kamulindwa setting the pace after the opening round.
The duo shot impressive three-under 68s to take an early lead in a tightly contested field.
It wasn’t all smooth sailing for Mutebi and Kamulindwa, as both golfers encountered early struggles, each recording two bogeys within their first four holes.
However, they recovered in style, finishing strong with five birdies apiece. Mutebi’s standout moment came on the challenging par-4 17th, while Kamulindwa registered four of his five birdies on the back nine.
Chasing the leaders is Rodell Gaita Tadeo, who sits just one shot back after carding a 69. Abraham Ainamani and Davis Kato followed closely behind at 70, while Ronald Otile, who made a spectacular eagle on hole one, finished with an even-par 71.
The playing conditions were favorable, with clear skies and a well-prepared course providing an ideal setting for the competition. However, the pressure is set to intensify on Thursday as players battle to make the cut.
Among those hovering around the borderline are James Koto and Richard Baguma (both 75), as well as Vincent Araali Byamukama and Mawa Saidi (both 76)—all needing solid second-round performances to continue in the competition.
The POA Golf Series has continued to attract top competition, with professionals vying for a UGX 20 million prize kitty. Defending champion Marvin Max Kibirige, winner of the first leg in February, is absent as he competes in Kenya’s Sunshine Development Tour, leaving the door open for a new champion.
In the gross amateur category, there is a three-way tie at the top, with Elton Thembo, Samuel Bazaale, and Shashank S. Gadre all posting one-under 70s. Just behind them, Michael Tumusiime, Morris Ashaba, and Joseph Kasozi are lurking at 71. Unlike the professionals, the amateurs will compete over three days and will not face a cut.
One of the biggest surprises of the day was national team captain Joseph Cwinya-ai, who endured a nightmare round. A quadruple-bogey on the par-4 ninth derailed his game, leaving him with a 78—eight shots off the lead.
Meanwhile, Uganda Open champion Joseph Reagan Akena had a steady round of 73, sitting in a tie for seventh with Titus Okwong, Andrew Ssekibejja, and Peter Tumusiime.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on the second round, where players on the cut line will be fighting to keep their tournament hopes alive. With a competitive leaderboard and favorable conditions, the Entebbe leg of the POA Golf Series promises plenty of drama ahead of the weekend’s final rounds.
