Dominic Musonda storms to stunning lead in Johnnie Walker Uganda open debut

LUGAZI, Uganda – Zambian debutant Dominic Musonda electrified the opening round of the 2025 Johnnie Walker Uganda Open Amateur Championship, seizing a commanding two-shot lead with a spectacular 6-under 65 at the Lugazi Hills Golf and Country Club on Wednesday.

The star from Nkana Golf Club, making his first competitive appearance in Uganda, mastered the challenging course with a bogey-free front nine. His stellar round featured eight birdies, only slightly marred by two bogeys on the back nine, setting a formidable pace in the 70-man field.

“It was a great round,” a delighted Musonda told the media. “The way I was swinging, I didn’t expect to play like this. Mastering putting and the short game on this course has really helped me, thanks to my caddie.”

Despite his strong position, Musonda remains focused on improvement. “For the remaining three days, I hope my swing comes back. I struggled off the tee and with my long irons today, so I’ll need to stay patient, hit smart shots, and trust my short game to stay in contention.”

Home hopes led by Cwinyaai

Uganda’s hopes for a local champion are firmly pinned on national team captain Joseph Cwinyaai, who sits in second place after a solid 4-under 67. Only two other Ugandans broke par: Elton Thembo and Abdul Kakeeto, who are tied for third at 1-under 70.

A group of players, including Peter Tumusiime, Rogers Eyoyo, and John Musimenta, are tied for fifth at even-par 71. Meanwhile, defending champion Joseph Reagan Akena suffered a major setback on his home course, carding a 6-over 77 that leaves him with a significant deficit to overcome.

Sponsors enjoy Par-3 challenge

Away from the main competition, tournament sponsors engaged in a lively par-3 challenge. The Uganda Tourism Board emerged victorious with a team gross score of 25. Johnnie Walker Black clinched second place on countback after tying with the Uganda Golf Union on 26, with NBS Sport finishing fourth with the same score.

The 84th edition of the championship continues today and runs through Saturday, with a full international field vying for the title. The event is proudly supported by Absa Bank Uganda, Aquafina, Isuzu Mac East Africa, Uganda Tourism Board, Medisell Uganda and MTN MoMo.