David Plenderleith, a seasoned golfer with 63 years of experience, has taken an early lead in the Serena 63 Golf Series at the Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort and Spa in Kigo.
At 70 years old, Plenderleith, the defending champion of the I&M Bank-backed series, aims to retain his title with a strong start over his competitors.
During the first quarterly order of merit awards session on Saturday, May 25, Plenderleith was revealed to be leading the 70-player pack with 179 points, 16 points ahead of second-placed Duncan Kaggwa, last season’s podium finisher.
Leena Halai holds third place with 147 points. The rankings are based on players’ five best rounds.
Reflecting on his performance, Plenderleith attributed his success to consistency and the advantage of residing in the Serena Golf estate, which offers him ample opportunity to play regularly.
“I am not surprised to be the leader of the series because I have been one of the most consistent players. I am privileged to be living in this estate and that gives me the privilege to play at any time I want,” Plenderleith stated.
“This event has really been great to the members because it gives us a reason to play regularly.”
Other top performers include John Byabagambi with 134 points, Jadu Patel with 118 points, Gloria Nanyonga with 108 points, Sahil Halai with 107 points, Ssebale Kato with 101 points, and Maria Odido with 100 points.
I&M Bank, the series’ main sponsor alongside Serena Hotels, expressed satisfaction with the event’s progress.
“I&M Bank is privileged to support this series alongside our esteemed partner Serena Hotels for the second year running. Together, we’re dedicated to fostering the growth of golf in Uganda,” stated I&M Bank CEO Robin Bairstow.
He also thanked the golfers for their contributions to the event’s success.
The event also served as the club’s monthly Mug competition. Annette Nakiyaga, Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs at I&M Bank, presented awards to numerous Mug winners, many of whom participate in the Serena 63 Series.
“On behalf of I&M Bank, it was a privilege to celebrate excellence in golf today. As we mark our 50th anniversary next month, we’re honored to be part of this series that embodies the spirit of dedication and achievement,” Nakiyaga said.
In the men’s category (members), John Muchiri emerged as the overall winner with a score of 74 nett, while former Minister Eng. John Byabagambi won Group A with a score of 75. Ronnie Kasirye followed closely with a score of 77.
Group B saw a tight competition with Prem Patel winning on count-back with a score of 79, narrowly beating Kartick Halai.
In the Ladies category (members), Katy Kabenge led with a score of 76, with Gloria Nanyonga as the first runner-up, also scoring 76.
In the guests category, Ruth Mugisha topped with a score of 68, followed by Henry Kibuuka and Picole Lukyamuzi with scores of 69 and 72, respectively.
The next quarterly order of merit awards session is scheduled for August 10, with the grand finale set for November 10.
https://sportsnation.co.ug/2024/05/27/serena-63-series-plenderleith-draws-first-blood/
