Herman Deco Mutebi credited his passion for golf and support from his community as the driving forces behind his wire-to-wire victory at the Pearl of Africa Golf Series in Entebbe.
The former caddie turned professional capped off four days of consistent play with a final-round one-under 70, finishing on five-under-par 279, two strokes ahead of closest challenger Rodell Gaita Tadeo.
In a heartfelt post-round interview, Deco emphasized the significance of the moment.
“I would like to thank the captain of Entebbe Golf Club, the Captain of Katogo Series, The Challengers, and everyone who believed in me,” he said. “I truly enjoy it,” he added simply, when asked about what motivated him through the pressure-filled tournament.
Deco, who had not won at his home course in a long time, led the leaderboard from the opening round, where he carded a 68, and never relinquished the top spot despite being pushed to the limit by a determined Gaita.
The final round was a test of nerves. After matching birdies on the front nine, Deco maintained a slender lead.
When Gaita mounted a strong challenge on the back nine — including a chip-in on the 12th and a long birdie on the 14th — Deco responded with calm, calculated golf, including critical birdies that kept him ahead.
Even when both players made double bogeys on the tricky par-4 17th, Deco’s three-stroke cushion going into the final hole allowed him to play conservatively and seal the win with a regulation par.
The UGX 20 million winner’s share was a welcome reward, but for Deco, the real prize was reclaiming belief in himself and making a statement on home turf. “This means a lot to me,” he noted.
Behind Gaita, the professional leaderboard featured Silver Opio, David Kamulindwa, Abraham Ainamani, Philip Kasozi, and Davis Kato.
In the amateur category, Michael Tumusiime emerged victorious after edging out Elton Thembo and Samuel Bazaale on Friday.
The Entebbe leg marked the second stop of the 2024 Pearl of Africa Golf Series, with the final leg set for June in Lugazi.
