Four golfers have booked tickets to represent Rwanda at the BPR International Golf Tournament which will take place in Nairobi, Kenya, on December 6. Their qualification follows their outstanding exploits at the BPR-KCB Golf Tournament which took place at Kigali Golf Resort and Villas from October 25 to October 26. The tournament’s standout performers, including winner Pastor Barnabas Nganga, first and second runners-up Benjamin Mukisa and Olwit Anthony as well as fourth-placed Alphosine Murekatete, were selected to compete in Kenya. Speaking at the awards giving ceremony on Saturday night, BPR Bank Rwanda Managing Director Patience Mutesi emphasized that the tournament is a clear indication that their decision to sponsor golf is bearing fruits. We had 200 golfers participating in the competition and this is a true reflection that our investment is on course, Mutesi said. We have been partnering golf for a number of years and we relate to it a lot. I can assure that BPR bank and golf will have a long-term partnership, she added. On his part Kigali Golf Resort and Villas captain Andrew Kulayige was impressed by the performance showcased by the participants during the tournament and commended the level that the sport has reached in Rwanda over the years. Five years ago, we were even struggling to get sponsors for golf. Currently, things have changed and we have more sponsors on board including BPR Bank, Now, we have more than 600 registered golfers and partnership like this (with BPR) brings the best golfers,” Kulayige said. The four golfers who won ticket to represent Rwanda at the BPR International Golf Tournament, were among best performing participants who were recognised. Other winners who were awarded include Alice Rwigema who won the Handicap 0-18 in the ladies’ category and Dr Charles Gahima who came out on top in seniors category. Ivan Kwizera stood out in men’s Handicap 10 to 19 while Melissa Akaniyi took home the prize for the longest drive and nearest to pin for women. Others include William Nshohe for the longest drive in men category, Vincent Mugabo for the nearest to the pin for men. Olivia Ntambara starred for Handicap 19 to 26 for women, Arthur Mugunga for handicap category 0 to 9 with Nigeria’s Kola Adebayor winning in the Guests Category.
