Africa-Press – Uganda. Veteran golfers David Plenderleith and Catherine Pavie were crowned champions of the Seniors Tournament of the 2025 Johnnie Walker Uganda Open Golf Championship on Saturday, winning the men’s and ladies’ categories respectively at Lugazi Hills Golf and Country Club.
After two rounds, Plenderleith, a member of Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort and Spa, returned a gross score of 167 in the three-ball tournament. He opened with 83 in the first round and shot 84 on Saturday.
At 71, with 64 years of experience in the game, Plenderleith made two birdies on the par-5 16th and the par-3 3rd holes during the tournament. On a challenging course, he credited his triumph to a stroke of luck as competitors struggled to navigate the terrain.
“Well, everybody has luck and maybe it was my turn to have a little bit of luck; sometimes that’s how the game goes,” Plenderleith said.
“I haven’t played well for the last nine months and this win is a fantastic boost. I plan to play more senior tournaments in the coming months.”
Former winner John Muchiri finished runner-up with rounds of 86 and 84 for a total of 170, while Tony Kisadha carded 85 and 87 to place third at 172. Michael Cleave signed for 176 and Rwanda’s Joseph Semwaga posted 178 to round out the top five.
In the ladies’ event, Jinja Club’s Catherine Pavie, who had long been chasing a title, finally captured the crown with a gross score of 192, having shared the lead in the opening round with last year’s winner, Edrea Kagombe.
“I play on this course almost every week because Jinja is about 45 minutes away. I felt at ease because I knew the course well,” Pavie said.
“It was a great competition, but I didn’t feel any pressure—not that I had nothing to lose, but because I trusted my game and focused on every shot.”
Kagombe finished joint third with Rose Azuba at 199, while Katy Kabenge was runner-up with 194.
At the prize-giving ceremony, Uganda Golf Union President Dr Jackson Were highlighted the importance of senior golfers in the sport.
“Senior golfers are a clear testament that golf is more than just a competition; it encourages healthy lifestyles, mental well-being, and social connections. Seeing these senior players perform at such a high level reminds us that age is no barrier to staying active, enjoying the game, and achieving excellence,” he said.
Christine Kyokunda, Johnnie Walker Brand Manager, said the Seniors Tournament symbolises the enduring passion and discipline of older players, who set the standard for future generations.
“They are the living embodiment of Johnnie Walker’s timeless mantra: Keep Walking. Today, they remind us that greatness is achieved by walking consistently, step by step, stroke by stroke,” she said.
“For the next three weeks, we are committed to elevating the Open with experiences that match the spirit of the game.”
The 19th hole experience of the seniors event was headlined by DJ Alberto, who entertained the audience with classics, oldies, and current hits. Media personality Samson Kasumba hosted the event.
The focus of the Johnnie Walker Uganda Open Golf Championship now turns to the Ladies Open scheduled for 28 to 30 August at the same venue, followed by the Amateur and Professional events.
The hosting club has promised to continue enhancing the overall experience for players and spectators, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable tournament for everyone.
The 2025 Johnnie Walker Uganda Open Golf Championship is sponsored by Absa Bank Uganda, Aquafina, Isuzu Mac East Africa, Uganda Tourism Board, Medisell Uganda, NBS Sports, and MTN MoMo.
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