Madina shares lead at UGC Ladies Open

KAMPALA: TANZANIA’s top female golfer, Madina Iddi, made a strong start to her title defence at the UGC Ladies Open, finishing the first round tied for the lead on Thursday at the Uganda Golf Club (Kitante) in Kampala.

The 54-hole tournament, which attracts top talent from across East Africa, saw Madina card an impressive level-par 72 to share the top spot with Uganda’s Judith Komugisha.

Just one stroke behind is Martha Babirye, who posted a solid 73, keeping the leaderboard tight heading into the second round.

Meron Kyomugisha and Berna Musanabera are also in the hunt with opening scores of 79, while Hadijah Nampijja carded 80 and Sylvie Irakoze remain within striking distance after rounds of 81 gross.

Speaking to the ‘Daily News’ after her first round, Madina acknowledged the strength of the field but remained confident about her chances.

“It’s a tight game and the next two days will be even tougher,” she said. “I’m focused and determined to give my best to win back-to-back titles.”

Madina, representing Arusha Gymkhana Club (AGC), is aiming for her third international title of the year.

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She returned to the par-72 Kitante course where she captured the title in 2024 with a commanding five-stroke victory over Uganda’s Peace Kabasweka.

In that edition, she opened with a 78, followed by consecutive rounds of 76 to seal the win and earn valuable World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) points.