National team captain Joseph Cwinyaai made history on Thursday as he stormed to victory in the gross amateurs category of the 2025 Absa Captain’s Bell tournament, finishing with a record-breaking total score of 200 (-16) over three days at the Entebbe Club.
Cwinyaai capped a dominant run by carding 20 birdies and just four bogeys across the tournament.
His final round performance saw him finish at 6-under-par, securing a comfortable lead and writing his name into Ugandan golf history.
“This is a record score of any tournament in the entire country. It’s one to celebrate. This is my best tournament ever,” said a jubilant Cwinyaai.
“I feel happy and proud that I have won this for the second time. Geoffrey Nsubuga last won the Uganda Open with -14 in 2022—I’ve broken that with -16 in just three rounds.”
Cwinyaai walks away with UGX 6 million, the top prize for the gross amateurs category, and adds another major title to his growing legacy, coming off a recent win at the President’s Cup.
In the ladies category, Peace Kabasweka emerged champion after a steady showing over three rounds, posting a total gross score of 234 to take top honors.
Meanwhile, the professionals teed off for their third round later in the day, setting up Friday’s grand finale.
Tom Jingo remains in pole position with a gross score of 207 (-1), closely pursued by experienced pro Deo Akope, who sits at 209 (-7) after a strong showing on day three.
Akope praised the level of competition and the efforts to promote the sport.
“NBS Sport has done a good job portraying this sport and I appreciate that as chairman,” he said. “The pros are doing a great job, as you can see with Cwinyaai.”
With the final day of the professional contest looming on Friday, and a UGX 20 million cash prize on the line, all eyes will be on whether Jingo can hold off Akope and other contenders in what promises to be an entertaining finish to one of Uganda’s most prestigious golf tournaments.
