The upcoming Johnnie Walker Uganda Open Golf Championship will feature a significantly increased prize kitty, it has been confirmed.
Last year, the prize for professionals was Sh100m, but this year it has been raised to Sh150m as confirmed during the Open's launch on Friday in Entebbe.
The tournament will commence on Thursday, August 22, at the par-71 Entebbe Golf Club.
The increase in prize money is largely due to a boost in the sponsorship package from Johnnie Walker, who have raised their investment from Sh410m to Sh550m.
Jackson Were, President of the Uganda Golf Union, attributed this growth to the sponsors, stating, "The increment – all that credit goes to the sponsors who have made it possible. The amateurs will also receive some cash, which has not been the case, but we want to move with the changes worldwide."
Were also expressed aspirations for the event to become part of the DP World Tour, emphasizing the potential benefits such as attracting tourists and increasing foreign exchange. This ambition, however, will require government involvement.
This marks the second year with Johnnie Walker as the title sponsor - And the growth and impact of their sponsorship have been evident.
Robert Nsibirwa, UBL's Marketing Manager Spirits, shared his excitement about the event, stating, "We are excited to be part of last year's event and seeing it come to fruition. This year we have come back bigger and better and as progressive as Johnnie Walker is."
Nsibirwa highlighted the goal of elevating the experience for both avid golf followers and newcomers, noting, "Increasing the prize money suddenly elevates the profile of the open not just here but globally. We are doing our best to attract professionals and these follow the money literally."
In addition to Johnnie Walker, Absa Bank Uganda sponsors the Pro-Am tournament, sponsoring up to 10 players to participate in the 2025 Magical Kenya Open.
Other sponsors include MTN, Next Media (media partners), Pinnacle Security, HH Solutions, Case Medical Services, Medisell, and Orchard Interiors.
Last year's Uganda Open winner, Dismas Indiza, took home Sh21 million, and the stakes are even higher this year with the increased prize kitty and expanded sponsorship.
No comments:
Post a Comment