KAMPALA, Aug. 16 -- TANZANIAs top female golfer, Madina Iddi, made a strong start to her title defence at the UGC Ladies Open, finishing the first round tied for the lead on Thursday at the Uganda Golf Club (Kitante) in Kampala.

The 54-hole tournament, which attracts top talent from across East Africa, saw Madina card an impressive level-par 72 to share the top spot with Ugandas Judith Komugisha.

Just one stroke behind is Martha Babirye, who posted a solid 73, keeping the leaderboard tight heading into the second round.

Meron Kyomugisha and Berna Musanabera are also in the hunt with opening scores of 79, while Hadijah Nampijja carded 80 and Sylvie Irakoze remain within striking distance after rounds of 81 gross.

Speaking to the ‘...