KIU Edges Prisons for Woodball Title as Gwaaka Dominates Men's Category

Kampala International University (KIU) staged a thrilling comeback to win the team title at the First National Universities and Clubs Woodball Open held at Peace Park, Kyambogo. The event doubled as the last selection trial for Uganda’s squad heading to the 10th Woodball World Cup in Malaysia.

Uganda Prisons appeared set for victory, but KIU’s Deus Arinaitwe delivered a crucial 49 strokes in the final round, helping his team finish on 421 strokes—19 ahead of Prisons’ 440. Kampala University took third with 459 strokes. Arinaitwe shared his surprise: “I just wanted to play well and I’m happy the score helped my team.”

Brian Gwaaka of KIU stole the individual show in the men’s category, posting 98 strokes for gold. He beat Bridge Byamukama and Prisons captain Isaac Ariho, both on 104 strokes, with the latter third on countback. Gwaaka, undefeated this season, eyes a national team spot: “This win is another milestone in my career.”

Byamukama, competing from Kiruhura, noted his need for more preparation to compete consistently.

In women’s seniors, Ndejje University’s Lailah Bint Ali Nakachwa ended a three-year drought with 111 strokes for gold, ahead of Joyce Nalubega and Denise Pulkeria Nanjeru on 115 each. She credited her calm focus on team play.

Ndejje also dominated women’s team standings at 481 strokes, with MOPS second on 494 and Kampala University third at 502.

In corporate categories, UNEB swept men’s gold with 329 strokes over MOPS (282) and University of Kisubi (281), and women’s with 309 strokes. Standouts included Justine Balemesa (70), Madrine Namubiru (75), and Agnes Amongin (78).

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)