Toro Pool Association to host historic PAU Grand Open in Fort Portal

This weekend, the Toro Pool Association will host the PAU Grand Open at the Grafton Arms Tavern in Fort Portal, marking the first time a regional association has been entrusted with organizing the event.

"This Grand Open is special because it’s the first to be held upcountry under a regional association (Toro). It’s also unique as it includes juniors and masters categories. With such organization, we’re working towards our roadmap of becoming a federation, and regional associations will now start hosting events," said PAU tournament secretary Donald Ampumuza.

The Pool Association of Uganda has lined up four competitions over the weekend, featuring men, women, masters, and juniors categories.

The men’s winner will take home sh3 million and a gold medal, while the first runner-up will receive sh1.5 million and a silver medal. Third place will earn sh750,000, and fourth place sh300,000, with fifth to eighth place each receiving sh100,000.

In the women’s category, the winner will walk away with sh1.5 million, followed by sh800,000 for second place, sh400,000 for third, and sh200,000 for fourth. Fifth to eighth place will also receive sh100,000. The top three finishers in each category will be awarded medals alongside their cash prizes.

Players are eager to compete in the first individual event of the year, including Rox Berry’s Joseph Kasozi.

“I expect to perform well because I’ve done it before, and I can do it again. I’ve been in camp preparing, thanks to my management at Rox Berry,” said Kasozi.

Due to the large number of participants across multiple categories, games are scheduled to begin early on Saturday morning. The event promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent and a significant step forward for pool in Uganda.