Excitement rippled across the fairways of Entebbe Golf Club as the 2026 Stanbic Match Play Challenge qualifiers teed off, producing a landmark moment for Ugandan golf.
Berna Musanabera stole the spotlight after sinking a sensational hole-in-one at the par-three 12th hole, earning herself a brand-new Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid. Her achievement marked a double milestone — she became the first woman and the first player in the tournament’s history to win the coveted hole-in-one car prize.
Her tee shot landed smoothly on the green before spinning perfectly into the cup, sparking cheers from fellow competitors and spectators. The dramatic ace instantly etched her name into local golfing history.
Speaking moments after her triumph, Musanabera described the experience as surreal. Having played golf actively for four years, she said the victory was beyond anything she had imagined.
She encouraged more women to take up the sport, emphasizing that golf offers not only enjoyment but meaningful rewards and opportunities. She also commended the tournament sponsors, particularly Stanbic Bank Uganda, for their continued commitment to growing the game.
The hybrid vehicle was presented by CFAO Mobility Uganda and comes with added benefits, including a service package and warranty backed by Afrisafe Uganda. The fuel-efficient model averages about 21 kilometres per litre, adding practicality to the prestige of the prize.
The qualifier attracted 246 golfers, among them Mumba Kalifungwa and other prominent players from across the country, reflecting the tournament’s growing stature.
Ritah Apell, Head of ICT at Stanbic Bank, praised participants for their dedication and noted that the bank’s investment in golf reflects its broader commitment to national development. She highlighted passion, consistency and partnership as shared values between sport and business
Kwame Ejalu, Managing Director of Afrisafe Uganda, expressed satisfaction that after a decade of sponsoring the hole-in-one prize, the car had finally been claimed. He added that it was especially meaningful to see a woman make history.
Club captain Sserwano Walusimbi described the opening round as energetic and competitive, predicting tougher contests as the series advances from the qualifiers to the knockout stages.
Unlike stroke play, where cumulative scores determine the winner, match play pits golfers head-to-head on each hole, intensifying strategy and pressure throughout the round.
The stakes will rise even higher in the coming stages. The overall champion is set to attend the prestigious DP World Tour in Dubai, while other top performers will earn trips to Zanzibar and Mombasa. Additional prizes throughout the tournament are supported by partners including Stanbic Bank, Uganda Airlines, CFAO Mobility and Afrisafe.
With one unforgettable swing, Musanabera not only drove away in a new car but also propelled Ugandan golf into a new chapter.