The Uganda National Tennis Championship returned for game week two on Sunday 19th March at the Makerere Tennis Courts with a series of exciting matches that showcased the country’s top talent.
Winnie Birungi delivered an impressive performance, defeating Eseza Muwanguzi 6-0, 6-3, while Alison Comfort battled it out against Gul Arora and emerged victorious with a 6-4, 6-4 scoreline.
Edward Birungi and Said Mawa provided a thrilling encounter that went down to the wire, with Edward Birungi clinching the victory 6-7 (5), 6-3, 7-6 (8).
Meanwhile, Trevor Kazibwe made quick work of Paul Sekandi with a dominant 6-1, 6-3 win, and Francis Agonzebwa swept past Bob Matsiko with a commanding 6-1, 6-2 triumph.
The courts were also treated to an impressive display from Troy Adrian Ziwa, who overcame Hafiz Abdallah 6-3, 6-4, and Marvin Kiriwo, who defeated Kato Said Musa 6-2, 6-4.
Frank Tayebwa rounded off the day’s proceedings with a convincing 6-1, 6-2 victory over Joel Mwisuke.
The tournament is set to run for 8 weeks, but the Championship organizers report that they are facing funding challenges and that the championship began with funds from well wishers, signs that the UNTC still needs more support to see it through to the end.
The UNTC’s ideal budget for the championship and the accompanying trip to France is UGX70m, meaning on average, UGX2.5m is needed per match-day to cater for players’ facilitation, balls, water, officials, and other expenses.
For now, they are counting on offers they hope they can get, especially for the trip, which will require UGX37m.
Despite KLM offering a discount on air tickets for the winners, the UNTC is still on the lookout for additional sponsors to support this initiative, which is vital for the growth and development of tennis in Uganda.
The UNTC on countless times has offered opportunities to young tennis players in the country to showcase their talents and enhance their skills, making them an ideal championship worth the support.
