The overalls were on, the vibes were high, and the golf was exceptional as Isaac Kyoyagala and Venessa Peris emerged as the overall winners of the 2026 Hima-sponsored Captain’s Putter tournament at Entebbe Golf Club.
More than 160 golfers took to the lush fairways of the scenic par-72 course, competing in the unique Tombstone format while enjoying a day filled with competitive golf, networking, laughter and memorable experiences.
The Captain’s Putter remains one of the most prestigious events on the Entebbe Golf Club calendar, serving as a celebration of the club captain’s tenure and a symbol of the strong traditions that unite the golfing fraternity.
At the end of a fiercely contested competition, Peris, playing off handicap 20, claimed the ladies’ overall title, while Isaac Kyoyagala, handicap 26, emerged victorious in the men’s category. Both winners received trophies, custom putters and hampers courtesy of tournament sponsors Hima Cement.
Peris, who also won the title in 2023, described the victory as special and credited her resilience and strategic approach for helping her navigate the challenging format.
“This tournament always changes your golf strategy because you are constantly thinking about what comes next rather than the end of the game,” Peris said.
“I’m very proud because this is my second time winning after 2023. The competition was tough and everyone was pushing hard.”
She revealed that Hole 14 proved to be a decisive moment in her round after a difficult start.
“In the first nine holes I had a couple of sixes, and my caddie kept reminding me that there should be no more sixes. Hole 14 was a turning point. I should have had a birdie but settled for a bogey. Later, on Hole 17, I asked my caddie how many strokes I had left, and he told me I still had more than 20. That gave me confidence to finish strongly,” she added.
Peris also emphasised the importance of maintaining a positive mindset.
“I just need to keep a healthy appetite for golf and continue playing with a positive attitude.”
Beyond the competition, the event delivered a vibrant social atmosphere that culminated in an entertaining 19th-hole experience, with golfers and guests enjoying music, camaraderie and celebrations late into the evening.
Hima Cement brand and communications manager Leonah Nekusa reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting the club and the sport.
“The partnership between Entebbe Golf Club and Hima Cement has continued over the years because this community is part of who we are,” Nekusa said.
“As a company, we believe in strong foundations. While we build sustainable foundations through our cement, we also build strong relationships through community engagement and partnerships. That is why we continue to support events like this and give back to sports.”
She added that both Hima Cement and the Captain’s Putter share values of legacy and longevity.
“Hima Cement is a long-standing brand, and there is nothing that speaks more about foundation and legacy than time. We are celebrating values that endure for years.”
Entebbe Golf Club captain Walusimbi Serwano hailed the tournament as a successful celebration of golf and community spirit.
“We are always grateful to Hima Cement for continuously supporting this tournament. It is a celebration of the captain’s tenure, the traditions of our club and the game of golf itself,” he said.
2026 Hima Captain’s Putter Results
Overall Winners
• Ladies: Venessa Peris
• Men: Isaac Kyoyagala
Group Winners
• Ladies Group A: Jovia Tugume
• Ladies Group B: Maxi Byenkya
• Ladies Group C: Sheila Nduhukire
• Men Group A: Dr Twinemanzi. T
• Men Group B: Geoffrey Byamugisha
• Men Group C: Michael Sekadde
• Men Group D: Jerome Birungi
Guest Winners
• Ladies: Berna Musanabera
• Men: Mumba Kalifungwa
Special Awards
• Seniors Winner: Edward Kabuchu
• Longest Drive (Ladies): Peace Hellen
• Longest Drive (Men): Peter Magona
• Nearest to the Pin (Ladies): Anne Abeja
• Nearest to the Pin (Men): Steven Paul Ojambo
• Piga Mingi: Brian Manyindo
