Grace Kasango kept it simple and it worked perfectly.
The soft-spoken golfer took control on day one of the Pearl of Africa Professionals’ competition, shooting a four-under 67 to claim a three-shot lead at Entebbe Club.
Kasango started fast, picking up birdies on the first two holes. A bogey on the fifth slowed him briefly, but he recovered with a birdie at the ninth to stay on track.
The real damage came on the back nine, where he rolled in three straight birdies on holes 11, 12 and 13 to pull away from the field. A dropped shot on 16 was a small blemish on an otherwise sharp round.
Ronald Rugumayo sits closest, three shots back after a one-under 70. He had looked set for more before a double bogey on the 16th cost him ground.
Davis Kato is another name in the mix on 71, alongside Rodell Gaita Taddeo, Vincent Araali Byamukama and David Kamulindwa, all level par. Marvin Max Kibirige and Philip Kasozi are tied on 73.
In the amateur ranks, Joseph Cwinya-ai is already in control. Rounds of 68 and 67 gave him an eight-shot lead, leaving the rest with work to do.
Andrew Ssekibejja is second, with Shaka Kariisa third after a level-par 71 that included an eagle on the final hole.
With more rounds to play, the chase is still on.
