In a dramatic end to the MTN Kopu P’ubimu seventh version, Jonam County emerged victorious, defeating defending champions Padyere County 1-0 in a tense ultimate match held at Pacego Primary School, Pakwach District. The solitary objective from Samuel Rwothomio, scored in stoppage time, secured Jonam County their first title, dethroning final yr’s champions.
The extremely anticipated showdown noticed each groups locked in a fierce battle, with Padyere, the sixth version champions, defending resolutely. However, Rwothomio capitalized on a uncommon likelihood late within the sport, sealing the win for Jonam County and sparking jubilant celebrations from their followers.
A Hard-Fought Victory
Jonam head coach Simon Peter praised his group’s perseverance, acknowledging the issue of breaking by way of Padyere’s strong protection. “We knew Padyere was a difficult facet to deal with, so we centered on defending and attacking with objective. We created a number of possibilities within the first half, however Padyere’s goalkeeper made some implausible saves,” Peter stated. “In the top, luck was on our facet in stoppage time.”
With the win, Jonam County walked away with UGX 4 million and the coveted MTN Kopu P’ubimu Cup, whereas Padyere, who completed as runners-up, had been awarded UGX 2 million. Okoro County, the third-place group, acquired UGX 500,000 for his or her efforts.
Bicycle Races: Father-Son Rivalry Revived
The ultimate day of the event additionally featured the MTN-Ker Alur third version of bicycle races, which drew vital consideration. Female riders competed in a 15km race, whereas the lads tackled a 25km course. Jenety Acibu from Jonam County emerged as the ladies’s champion, pocketing UGX 1.5 million. She was adopted by Charity Andhu from Padyere, who took house UGX 700,000, and Consulate Monokuma from Padyere, who claimed UGX 300,000.
In the lads’s race, a novel father-son rivalry took middle stage as Anthony Keruneka and his son Justine Opakrwoth claimed first and second place, respectively. Anthony, the daddy, secured the highest spot, whereas his son Justine settled for second. Stephen Jacwicongeo of Padyere completed third, persevering with his sturdy exhibiting after having received the race in 2018, when he defeated his father in a memorable competitors.
“I began using a bicycle after I was 7 years previous, and it is turn out to be our household’s supply of livelihood,” stated Opakrwoth, reflecting on his journey from childhood bicycle owner to champion.
MTN’s Continued Support for Ker Alur
Speaking on the occasion, Phillips Odoi, MTN’s Commercial Head Officer, praised Ker Alur for uniting youth by way of sports activities and fostering a robust relationship with MTN. “We recognize the nice and cozy reception from the neighborhood. Through these actions, we’re tapping into new enterprise alternatives whereas constructing stronger bonds with Ker Alur,” Odoi stated.
He inspired the winners to speculate their prize cash correctly to enhance their livelihoods. “We are dedicated to figuring out areas inside Ker Alur the place MTN can proceed to make a optimistic influence,” Odoi added.
A Tournament with a Message
Vincent Ochaya, Executive Director of Ker Alur, emphasised that this yr’s MTN Kopu P’ubimu was not nearly sports activities but in addition about elevating consciousness on key social points affecting the youth. “The theme of this yr’s version was ‘Positive Parenting to End Child Marriages and Early Pregnancy.’ Sports supplied the right platform to teach our youth on these necessary matters,” Ochaya defined.
He concluded by commending the youth for displaying self-discipline all through the event, including that it mirrored effectively on the values of Alur tradition. “All our sporting actions, which kicked off on September 7, 2024, had been accomplished efficiently, with our youth exhibiting most self-discipline and respect for our traditions.”
The event’s grand finale set the stage for the upcoming 14th coronation anniversary of Ubimu Phillips Olarker Rauni III, which can happen on October 26, 2024, at Bar Omach, Pakwach District.
