Africa-Press – Uganda. Charles Kabunga and Steven Kitamirike were crowned champions of the 2025 Stanbic Match Play Challenge after edging out the formidable pair of Henry Nsubuga and Picole Lukyamuzi with a hard-fought 3&1 victory in Saturday’s final at Entebbe Golf Club.
In what was described by spectators as a tense and high-quality contest, Kabunga and Kitamirike—an Entebbe Golf Club member and Sky Hotel proprietor, respectively—dug deep to claim the title, sealing the win on the 17th hole and etching their names into local golfing folklore.
“It’s wonderful and great to win here on this course,” said a jubilant Kabunga. “They really pushed us all the way; we are grateful for their spirit and fight.”
An emotional Kitamirike praised the support team that carried them through the competition.
“This win means a lot to us,” he said.
“It’s been a long journey, and we’ve had to dig deep at every stage.”
The turning point came at hole 15, where both Nsubuga and Lukyamuzi found themselves trapped in a greenside bunker after a misjudged approach.
Their failed recovery attempt opened the door for the more seasoned duo of Kabunga and Kitamirike to seize control, eventually closing out the match two holes later.
The defeat denied Nsubuga and Lukyamuzi a chance at a sudden-death playoff, leaving Kabunga and Kitamirike to lift the coveted trophy and walk away with a fully paid trip to Dubai, courtesy of Stanbic Bank and Uganda Airlines.
In the third-place playoff, John Paul Basabose and Next Media CEO Kin Kariisa secured a commanding 4&3 victory over Ellis Katwebaze and Evelyne Atukunda to wrap up their campaign in style.
Beyond the championship bracket, the tournament drew 169 participants in the subsidiary competition, underscoring the growing popularity of the Stanbic Match Play event.
Though the prize for a hole-in-one—a brand new car sponsored by Cfao Motors—remained unclaimed, the level of competition remained high across the board.
The tournament ended with a spirited celebration at the legendary 19th hole, where Mark Ouma and his band treated players and guests to a soothing live performance.
The evening of music, laughter, and reflection provided a fitting close to a tournament marked by competitive grit and sportsmanship.
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