Estephania Murungi, a 7-year-old primary two pupil from Glory to Glory Education Centre, has emerged as the overall winner of the Fort Portal Junior Golf Camp’s Drive, Chip, and Putt competition at the Toro Club’s par-70 course.

Murungi, who joined the Afriyea Golf Academy just six months ago, outperformed 17 other young golfers to claim the top spot. She bested her closest competitors, 4-year-old Ainomugisha Labason from St. Charles Lwanga Top Class, and 7-year-old Princess Zebiah Akello from Early Bird Nursery School.

Murungi’s father, Don Murungi, expressed pride in his daughter’s achievement, highlighting the dedication involved in her training. He shared his hopes of supporting his children’s aspirations in professional golf.

Estephania herself was elated with her victory. “I am so happy to win my first tournament and I will work hard to play more tournaments,” she said.

In the Drive, Chip, and Putt category, Murungi scored 9 out of 10 points, followed by Ainomugisha with 8 points, and Fahad Muhammad with 7 points.

The Afriyea Golf Academy’s junior golf camp, a comprehensive four-week program, provides children with golf training, life skills, and environmental sustainability education. The camp culminates in a competitive tournament featuring various categories, including 18 holes, 9 holes, 3 holes, and a chip-and-putt competition.

Professional golfer and Afriyea Golf Academy coach, Happy Robert, emphasized the developmental benefits of golf for children, noting its role in teaching integrity and social skills.

Isaiah Mwesige, CEO of Afriyea Golf Academy, praised the program for its impact on young participants, fostering essential values and sustainability practices. “Golf teaches a lot of transferable skills, and we are committed to continuing our efforts to positively impact young people,” he said.

Results:

Drive, Chip, and Putt:

• Winner: Estephania Murungi, 7 years
• Runner-up: Ainomugisha Labason, 4 years
• 1st Runner-up: Princess Zebiah Akello, 7 years

18 Holes:

• Winner: Thaddeus Byaruhanga, 13 years with 67 net
• Runner-up: Byaruhanga Justus, 16 years old with 68 net
• 1st Runner-up: Kirungi Richard, 16 years old with 70 net

9 Holes:

• Winner: Marunga Jasmine, 12 years with 50 C/B gross
• Runner-up: Kamanzi Elija, 13 years with 50 gross
• 1st Runner-up: Kabajuma Joyce, 11 years with 52 gross

3 Holes:

• Winner: Musoni Nathan, 7 years, 23 gross (playing forward tees on a par 5, 4, 3)
• Runner-up: Musigyizi Alvin, 10 years, 24 gross (playing forward tees on a par 5, 4, 3)
• 1st Runner-up: Fahad Muhammad, 27 gross (playing forward tees on a par 5, 4, 3)

Special Awards:

• Most Improved Player: Kasiime Violet
• Smartest Player in 4 Weeks: Rania Emmanuella Youngman