The highly anticipated I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series is back for the 2025 season, promising thrilling competition with new formats of play and a significant financial boost. The tournament was officially launched on March 3rd at a press briefing held at the I&M Bank head office in Kingdom Kampala.
This year’s edition has received a Sh650 million sponsorship package, marking an increase of Sh160 million from last year. The boost from various partners underscores the tournament’s growing prestige and impact.
The series will officially tee off on March 15th at Entebbe Club, followed by quarterly events on March 31st, August 9th, and the grand finale on November 29th.
More Than Just Golf: Community Impact and Growth
Speaking at the launch, I&M Bank CEO Robin Bairstow emphasized that the Katogo Golf Series is more than just a competition—it is a platform for fostering relationships, creating opportunities, and supporting communities.
“We are proud that this series extends beyond the game itself. Last year, we contributed Sh20 million to support school-going caddies and the children of golf course maintenance staff at Entebbe Club. This year, we are committed to doing even more,” Bairstow stated.
He also revealed that the 2025 edition will introduce new experiences, including the participation of a renowned football legend at one of the 19th hole celebrations, thanks to their partnership with Xcalibur Foundation.
Exciting New Formats of Play
Tournament Director Paul Kaheru announced the introduction of two new game formats:
- ‘Rejected’ Format (First Quarter Event): A team-based game where opponents determine where their rivals play their second shots. Each team can reject six opponent-selected positions and must use the worst nett score on those holes.
- ‘For Better or Worse’ (Second Quarter Event): Teams of two declare nine holes where they record their best score and nine holes where they must record their worst score, with a limitation of four clubs per player on best-score holes.
Returning formats include:
- ‘Daytona’ (August 9th): A pairs event where players combine their scores in a way that prioritizes the lower score.
- ‘In Regulation’ (Grand Finale): An individual format where players must land on the green in regulation or face a one-stroke penalty unless they score par or better.
Regional Expansion and Sponsorship Support
Katogo Captain Elly Mukasa expressed gratitude to both golfers and sponsors for their continued support. He hinted at further regional expansion, revealing plans to host an event in Kigali, Rwanda, following last year’s successful cross-border tournament at Limuru Country Club in Kenya.
Entebbe Club Captain Serwano Walusimbi praised the series for its positive impact, particularly on caddies and course staff. “The series has provided financial support and recognition to those who often go unnoticed. Entebbe Club is fully prepared to deliver an incredible experience,” he stated.
Hole-in-One Prize and Premium Partnerships
The 2025 series will once again feature a hole-in-one prize car, an Outlander Sport (X-Force), courtesy of Victoria Motors, with GA Insurance providing coverage.
The 19th hole experience will be enhanced by Johnnie Walker Uganda, offering premium cocktails and exclusive bottle deals. Other sponsors include Rwanda Air, NBS Sport, Fenon Events, Serena Hotels, Time Cop Security, and Goldman’s Luxury.
With new formats, a growing regional presence, and increased sponsorship, the I&M Bank Katogo Golf Series 2025promises to be bigger and better than ever.