Gen Owino gets big send-off during monthly Stanbic Mug 

Last Saturday’s Stanbic Bank April Mug at Uganda Golf Club was a competition that was different from the usual monthly tournaments at the club.

Nominally, it was a mug that attracted a huge turnout on a day when the course was in immaculate condition. The greens were impeccable and were unanimously appreciated by the hundreds of golfers who participated in the competition. It helped that the skies behaved, which meant that the playing conditions were favourable.

However, the day belonged to the outgoing Kenyan high commissioner Gen George Owino. The competition also doubled as his farewell, and the 19th hole was a testament to how valuable a member he has been to Uganda Golf Club.

“Your presence at Uganda Golf Club has been immeasurable for those of us who have enjoyed rounds of golf with you on and off the course,” UGC Captain Paul Rukundo remarked in his speech.

“You leave UGC with various happy memories and a bond created that will last a lifetime, and best wishes in your new positing.”

Gen Owino was presented with a kanzu and a traditional walking stick by UGC trustee ‘Uncle’ Charles Kareeba as souvenirs. Later on in the night, he sang alongside a music band for a charged, boisterous audience of golfers and joined them in a dance that went into the wee hours of the morning.

A team of golfers from Nakuru Golf Club took part in the mug, and it was just fitting that the winner was Robinson Mwenda, a Kenyan who was part of the them.

Mwenda shot 66 nett. Other winners on the day were former vice captain Paul Nuwagaba and Peace Kabasweka who triumphed in Group A for the men and ladies respectively. Professor Sam Ssejjaaka emerged best in the men’s Group B where Susan Tashobya prevailed for the women.