At 50 years young, Michael Tumusiime proved that age is just a number with a sensational victory at the second Pearl of Africa Golf Series held at the par-71 Entebbe Golf Club.
Tumusiime’s composed round of 73 saw him fend off fierce challenges from talented youngsters, including Elton Thembo, Samuel Bazaale, and Uganda Open champion Joseph Reagan Akena.
Tumusiime turned the tide on holes 13 through 16, gaining five strokes on a faltering Thembo, whose back-nine struggles under pressure cost him dearly.
Reflecting on his first-ever triumph, Tumusiime expressed modesty and joy: “First wins are always to be savoured. I’m happy to finally get it out of the way, and I hope it’s just the first of many more to come.”
As one of Uganda’s most dedicated amateur golfers, Tumusiime credits his success to rigorous training and a structured routine that keeps him competitive against opponents half his age.
His victory earned him a prize of Shs1.7m, while the remaining amateurs, including Thembo, Akena, Kasozi, and Kambale, shared Shs5m pro rata. Tumusiime follows in the footsteps of John Musiimenta, who won the inaugural series but skipped this event due to academic commitments.
The professionals’ tournament in Entebbe also delivered high drama, with Herman Deco Mutebi leading the charge heading into Saturday’s final day. Mutebi holds a slim two-stroke advantage, but with seasoned golfers like Rodell Gaita, Abraham Ainamani, David Kamulindwa, and Silver Opio close behind, the final round promises to be an intense battle of nerves.
The Pearl of Africa Golf Series, supported by sponsors such as Home Bliss Hotel, MTN, and NBS Sport, continues to grow in prestige.
