Prime
Mutebi aims for Open break after landing Shs22m package
Harnessing Talent. The Aviator Africa Managing Editor Vincent Mupenzi (R) and Associate Editor Daniel Bakalangudde (L) while unveiling sponsorship of Shs22m from the Aviator Africa and NuMax Cinemas to Entebbe prodigy Herman ‘Deco’ Mutebi (C) at NuMax Cinemas in Victoria Mall, Entebbe on August 26. PHOTO/EDDIE CHICCO
What you need to know:
Grounded Man. Despite predicting that the cut line might be at four-under after two days, Deco Mutebi remains focused on the bigger picture, emphasizing that months of hard work must yield results.
During a press conference held at NuMax Cinemas, where Deco Mutebi frequently unwinds, his sponsors, Aviator Africa and NuMax Cinemas, referred to him as ‘Our Champ.’
The staff at the venue even dubbed him ‘Super Deco.’ However, the man of the hour, Herman ‘Deco’ Mutebi, remained grounded when it was his turn to speak.
“I have worked tirelessly since June, and that effort must count for something. I don’t want to make empty promises, but I am determined to put my head down and play my best golf ever,” Mutebi said.
This comes after the leading aviation magazine on the continent, Aviator Africa, and Entebbe’s largest movie hub, NuMax Cinemas, announced a Shs22m sponsorship package for Mutebi.
The sponsorship is aimed at supporting his participation in the 19th Johnnie Walker Uganda Professionals Golf Open, scheduled for September 2-7 at the par-71 Entebbe Golf Club.
“I am deeply grateful for the support from Aviator Africa and NuMax Cinemas. This partnership will allow me to focus on my game and perform to the best of my abilities. I’ve been hitting some balls daily and achieving some impressive scores. With this sponsorship, I’ll practically be living on the course, but I also know I must pace myself. My goal is to make my sponsors, the home course gallery, and my country proud,” Mutebi added.
Bases covered
This strategic partnership will cover a range of expenses for Mutebi, including apparel and equipment, green fees, accommodation, feeding, caddie fees, travel, promotional materials, media management, and a performance bonus.
Inspired by Uganda’s leading professional golfer Ronald Rugumayo, Mutebi hopes to follow in his footsteps. For the Open, he plans to wear the colors of his international role model, Tiger Woods—white, blue, black, and red—as he looks to carve out his own legacy.
“Golf is tough, and the Open is even tougher because it attracts top-quality players. But I believe four-under over two days will be enough to make the cut. I’m eager to play over the weekend and willing to work hard to achieve that,” added the 25-year-old affable golfer.
Top class field
This year’s Open boasts the largest cash prize of Shs150m, expected to draw the strongest field yet, including several Sunshine Tour players.
"Such prize money should certainly motivate Deco (Mutebi). We are thrilled to be part of his journey. At Aviator Africa, we believe in supporting local talent and helping athletes reach their full potential. Deco's dedication and passion for the sport align perfectly with our values. Partnering with Deco is a fantastic opportunity for us NuMax to extend our commitment to the community beyond the cinematic experience,” said Aviator Africa’s Managing Editor, Vincent Mwesigye Mupenzi, who was accompanied by Associate Editor Daniel Bakalangudde.
Meanwhile, the Amateur Open tees off tomorrow in Entebbe, with Godfrey Nsubuga, fresh from the US, eager to defend his title.
Name: Herman ‘Deco’ Mutebi
Nickname: Deco
Date of Birth: March 12, 1999
Place of Birth: Lunyo, Entebbe
Residence: Kiwafu East, Entebbe Municipality, Division B
Parents: Herman Lwanga and Grace Namutebi
Role Model: Jordan Alexander Spieth (USA)
Golf Career: Started in 2009
Professional Ranks: Joined in 2019
Home Course: Entebbe Golf Club (Par 71)
Golf Kit: TaylorMade
Driving Range: 300 yards
Fairway Percentage: 70%
Favourite Shot: Putting
Current Ranking: 5th out of 55 Ugandan professional players
Professional Cuts: 16 out of 25 events
Achievements: Former National Amateur Team Player
Major Amateur Achievements
Champion, 2015 East African Challenge in Kigali, Rwanda
Runner-up, 2017 Uganda Amateur Open at Uganda Golf Club, Kitante, Kampala
Champion, 2016 Entebbe Ladies Golf Open
Champion, 2014 JBG Open in Entebbe
Runner-up, 2014, 2015, 2016 Eskom Open, Jinja
Champion, 2017 Eskom Open, Jinja
Member, 2015 Africa Junior Golf Championships, Lusaka, Zambia
Champion (Nett), 2015 Mbarara Open
