Stanbic Match Play heads into semi-finals as title race narrows to four teams

June 8, 2026 in Companies by Editor

Four teams remain in contention for the 2026 Stanbic Match Play Challenge title after a competitive quarter-final round at Entebbe Golf Club, setting up a highly anticipated semi-final showdown in July.

The race for the 2026 Stanbic Match Play Challenge title has entered its decisive phase after a thrilling quarter-final round at Entebbe Golf Club left just four teams in contention for one of Uganda’s most prestigious amateur golf crowns.

More than 100 golfers took part in the tournament’s main and subsidiary categories, underscoring the growing popularity and competitiveness of golf in Uganda. However, attention is now firmly focused on the semi-finals scheduled for July 11, where the remaining contenders will battle for places in the grand finale.

Tony Kisadha and Richard Mwami booked their place in the last four after a convincing 4&3 victory over Herbert Kamuntu and Stephen Otimabo. Their reward is a semi-final showdown against Brian Manyindo and Mark Musinguzi, who progressed with an identical 4&3 win over Bob Drani and Geoffrey Byamukama.

The second semi-final pits Sam Kacungira and Vincent Katutsi against Ronald Pulle and Michael Monne.

Kacungira and Katutsi secured their place after overcoming Henry Nsubuga and Jonathan Lukyamuzi, while Pulle and Monne delivered one of the most dominant performances of the quarter-finals, defeating Edrea Kagombe and Evelyne Atukunda 5&4.

The result ended the impressive run of Kagombe and Atukunda, ensuring that for the second consecutive year no women’s pairing will feature in the semi-final stage of the competition.

The tournament’s progression reflects the increasing depth of talent within Uganda’s amateur golf ranks, with several closely contested matches highlighting the competitive standards that continue to emerge at club level.

Speaking after the quarter-finals, Stanbic Bank Uganda Chief Information Officer Ritah Apell said the tournament’s growing popularity was evidence of the sport’s steady development in Uganda.

“The increasing participation and competitiveness we continue to witness in this tournament is a clear indication that golf is growing steadily in Uganda,” Apell said.

“At Stanbic Bank, we believe sport is a powerful platform for building communities, nurturing talent and promoting healthy lifestyles. Our continued support for golf and other sporting disciplines is aligned with our purpose of driving Uganda’s growth because Uganda is our home and we drive her growth.”

For the players still in contention, reaching the semi-finals represents the culmination of months of preparation and consistent performances throughout the competition.

Semi-finalist Vincent Katutsi described the achievement as a reward for hard work and determination.

“Every team that has reached this stage deserves to be here. The competition has been intense from the opening rounds, and we know the semi-finals will be even tougher,” Katutsi said.

“We are focused on maintaining our momentum and giving our best performance. We appreciate Stanbic Bank and Entebbe Golf Club for creating such an excellent platform that continues to develop the game.”

Despite exiting the tournament at the quarter-final stage, Bob Drani remained philosophical about defeat, noting that fine margins often determine outcomes in match-play golf.

“Geoffrey and I gave everything we had, but match-play golf can be decided by a few critical moments,” Drani said.

“Our opponents capitalised on their opportunities around the 15th hole and took control of the match. We congratulate all the teams that have qualified and wish them the best in the next round.”

Beyond the main draw, the tournament’s subsidiary competitions produced a number of standout performances.

Stanbic Bank Uganda Chief Executive Mumba Kalifungwa was among participants on the day, reflecting the lender’s continued engagement with the sport.

Entebbe Golf Club Captain Sserwano Walusimbi featured among the notable performers, while Peace Kabasweka won the Longest Drive award. Club Vice Captain Peter Magona also enjoyed a successful outing, finishing among the winners in the subsidiary categories.

Anne Abejja and Bennet Akampa claimed the Nearest-to-the-Pin awards, while Maxie Byenja and Ruth Akello topped the Ladies Group B and Group A categories respectively.

In the men’s divisions, Arnold Katwesigye won Group C, Samson Agumire triumphed in Group B, while Ali Juuko secured top honours in Group A.

With the semi-final lineup now confirmed, anticipation is building for the July 11 showdown that will determine which two teams advance to the final and move within touching distance of the 2026 Stanbic Match Play title.