Uganda Golf Club Captain Henry Rugamba talks about Preparations, Expectations and more as the countdown to the 2015 Tusker Malt Uganda Open continues. Read the interview excerpts below:
As Captain of the Uganda Golf Club, what are your expectations at the 2015 Tusker Malt Uganda Open?
We expect a full field of players, a show of the best talent and broader awareness of golf as a great sport.
The Uganda Golf Union has restructured this year’s tournament to include other categories. This means there will be more participants. How prepared are you to host such a huge event?
The Union has addressed an issue of concern that has been a lingering cloud over the event. The inclusion of different categories competing over 3 weeks of golf is an exciting development that will challenge all involved in the organization of this event. Uganda Golf Club is getting ready to host this event and support the union to make what many people think is impossible or crazy into an event that will define how we host tournaments in the future.
What should participants expect at the course this year?
The current rains are ensuring we have a course in good condition playing as it should. Competitors can be assured we are working round the clock to deliver a challenging but enjoyable experience. For those coming playing here for the first time since participating last year, we have 15 new bunkers on the first 3 holes, it’s going to fun.
Last year, local golfers rose up to the challenge and won the event. How do you rate their chances this year given the bigger expected?
Over the past two years we have had more competitions on the course that have given our local talent more experience and stamina. I believe we have the talent that can retain the professional and amateur crowns this year
This is the second time you are hosting the event as Captain. How does this make you feel?
Proud and appreciative, evidently we must have done something right to give the Uganda Golf Union a sense of confidence that Uganda Golf Club is the best destination of the restructured Uganda Open. This opportunity also challenges us to deliver above and beyond what we did last year. We have to be better.
What would you say are your major achievements as Captain of the Uganda Golf Club?
It is difficult to single out major achievements as it is a number of elements that come together to create a harmony of success. The management team and I have had the courage to introduce new features on the course, improve the facilities at the club, improve the service offerings to members and above all protect the resources of the club with unquestionable integrity.
So far it has been a very rewarding experience and an honour to serve.