Overview:
The Serena 63 Golf series were derived from the course record score of 63 gross scored by Kenyan professional Dismas Indiza in the year 2018.
Amid a rain laden final round, David Plenderleith emerged top for the second edition of the I&M Bank sponsored- Serena 63 Golf Series at the Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort and Spa, Kigo.
During was during the grand finale of the second season held on Saturday, 30th November 2024.
The second edition of the Serena Hotels organsied series teed off in April, and was concluded on the final day of the month of November.
The series registered a total of over 70 players, and attracted hundreds of golfers in the quarterly outings.
At the end of the second edition of the series, Plenderleith, who won the inaugural edition last year, was announced the overall winner, keeping the title at his grasp with a total score of 1,577 points, across 45 rounds, averaging 35.5 points per round, as announced by the eloquent and humorous host of the series final Innocent Ndawula.
He was awarded the grand prize of a one-year free subscription to the Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort and Spa, and other prizes.
“It feels wonderful to retain the title,” the 70-year-old Plenderleith disclosed to the media at the 19th hole on the chilly night.
Lucky:
Plenderleith attributed the victory to sheer luck amidst diligence throughout the season where he also traveled frequently to Europe, Malaysia, South Africa and Kenya.
“This year has been particularly hard. The competition was very good, and I think I just got lucky, because, I honest haven’t had a good year on the course. But perseverance paid off in the end,” he added.
Duncan Kagwa claimed the second spot with a total score of 1,446 points, from 45 rounds, averaging 32.1 points per round.
Kagwa won himself a fully paid trip to Mombasa with a two-nights stay, for two, at the prestigious Mombasa Serena Beach Resort, complete with return flights courtesy of Kenya Airways.
Former Minister, Hon. John Byabagambi, emerged second runner up, with a total score of 1,431, over 43 rounds, averaging 33.3 points.
Hon. Byabagambi earned a two-night stay for two, at the Kigali Serena Hotel, inclusive of return flights.
The top eight performers in the series were all recognized with exciting prizes.
Jadu Patel, who came fourth with 1,310 points, earned a two-night stay for four at the Nairobi Serena Hotel, with return flights.
Juanita Karamagi, finished fifth, with 1,290 points, while Kartick Halai came sixth with 1,219 points, winning return flights to Nairobi, Kigali, or Mombasa.
Gloria Nanyonga and Katy Kabenge, who finished 7th and 8th, respectively, were rewarded with Sunday lunch and golf rounds at the Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort &
Spa.
I&M Bank Chief Financial Officer, Timothy Musiime, who represented CEO Robin Bairstow, reemphasized the bank’s pride in being part of the Serena 63 Golf Series, as well as their commitment to supporting the growth of the game of golf in Uganda, and across the region.
“At I&M Bank is proud to be part of the Serena 63 series. Golf embodies excellence, friendship, and commitment—values we align with and support here in Uganda and across the region,” Musiime said.
“I want to thank all the participants who have been part of the Serena 63 Series. We appreciate your dedication and perseverance throughout the entire season,” Musiime added.
Meanwhile, Henry Kibuuka emerged as the top performer of the season finale outing, with 35 points. The Saturday event attracted over 100 golfers.
In the subsidiary category, Phillip Mutebi emerged victorious with a nett score of 23 points, while Ejiku Robert, and Kijambu Michael tied at 19 points.
In the subsidiary – guests category, Eric Nyogesa secured the top spot with a nett score of 22 points, earning himself golf gear from the Serena Golf pro shop.
Annette Nakiyaga, the Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at I&M Bank, highlighted the bank’s commitment towards fostering a thriving golfing culture; “As an institution, we’re happy to be part of this journey. It’s one that not only celebrates talent and skill, but also nurtures lasting connections and friendships,” she said.
Theodor van Rooyen, Director of Golf at Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa, remarked on the impact of the Serena 63 Golf Series;
“The Series has brought our members closer together and made them more active than ever. It’s been incredible to see so many golfers not only competing but truly engaging with the game throughout the year,” Theodor hinted.
The 2024 Serena 63 Golf Series wrapped up on a high, as guests enjoyed music mixes by a talented Dj till the wee hours of Sunday morning.
The Serena 63 Golf series were derived from the course record score of 63 gross scored by Kenyan professional Dismas Indiza in the year 2018.
