Worldwide Golf April 2016

Worldwide Golf The Middle East’s No.1 Golf Magazine

APRIL 2016, ISSUE 180

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Worldwide Golf Columist

DAY FOR MASTERS MAGIC

By Gary Player, Worldwide Golf Executive Editor since 1999

W

ITH so many of golf’s leading players finding their finest form early in the season, this month’s Masters Tournament promises to be a fascinating battle of the best. It would be wonderful if Rory McIlroy could win and complete his much deserved Grand Slam but he’s up against one of the strongest fields ever assembled at Augusta National. A Green Jacket has eluded the talented Irishman so far but it would be good for the game if he could master Augusta and join the most exclusive group in golf.

Jason Day must start favourite with his exciting victory at the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill last month and he has proved conclusively that he’s got what it takes to win The Masters. His fellow Australian Adam Scott has surprised a lot of people in adapting so well to the conventional short putter, following the ban earlier this year on long-handled anchored putters.

Adam seems to be putting better than ever and he showed everyone that he could cope with the change in only his third start of the season using the short stick in winning his 12th victory on the US PGA Tour, at the Honda Classic and then making it back-to-back victories by taking the World Golf ChampionshipsCadillac Championship at Doral.

Two-times Masters Champion Bubba Watson is also a man to watch around Augusta. He won the Northern Trust Open at Riviera Country Club in February in California and Augusta certainly seems to suit his style of play.

It was good to see my fellow South African Charl Schwartzel win the Valspar Championship at Innisbrook in Florida last month. Charl won The Masters in 2011 with two Aussies, Jason Day and Adam Scott, just two shots behind him, and Charl is perfectly capable of earning

another Green Jacket. Brandt Snedeker, who won the Farmers Insurance Open at the end of January, Jason Dufner, a two time winner on the US PGA Tour since last December, Henrik Stenson, Justin Rose, Rickie Fowler, Dustin Johnson and Patrick Reed all have a chance to win but my pick of the most dangerous challenger to Rory and Jason Day is Jordan Spieth. His deadly putting and his unerring consistency has meant that the defending Masters Champion has been World No.1 for a total of 26 weeks now and he’s going to take some catching. He won the Hyundai Tournament of Champions at Kapalua, Hawaii, back in January and he’s another young gun at the top of his game. We’re fortunate to have so many young men from all around the world competing at the highest level.

I wonder whether we will ever see Tiger Woods again at Augusta. When he won the first of his four Masters titles in 1997 it was by the remarkable margin of 12 shots over Tom Kite. I’m proud of my three Masters wins but it would a huge boost to the game if Tiger were to make his way back to Augusta. We’ve got some great youngsters in the game right now but imagine what it would be like if you added the Tiger factor.

Jack Nicklaus and I will miss not having the third member of The Big Three performing the ceremonial tee-off to get The Masters underway but Arnold (Palmer) will still be on the first tee with us and I’ve no doubt that Arnie’s Army will be just as vociferous as ever. n

The Master Gary Player has certainly made his mark at The Masters Tournament, with three Green Jackets – 1961; 1974; 1978.

1961

Gary Player became the first non- American to win the Masters Tournament and was handed the Green Jacket by Arnold Palmer.

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1998

Was the year he became the oldest player to make the cut – aged 62!

April 2016

CONTENTS Features

28 34 40 62 65 81

Worldwide GOLF 6

91

COMPETITION

WIN 1 x VIP Hospitality pass and a place in the Pro-Am at the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth with Emirates Airline

Greg Norman’s Ayla

The Great White Shark gives un an exclusive update on the stunning developments at Ayla Aqaba, Jordan.

Ernie Els

The four-time Major champion talks about the return to the UAE of the Autism Golf Challenge – of which his Els for Autism Foundation is a beneficiary – and looks ahead to a successful season on Tour after a few recent tweaks to his putting technique.

European Tour Destinations

Each month WWG will give you the inside information on all the courses and properties that are in the European Tour Destinations and Properties portfolio, starting this month with Jumeirah Golf Estates.

Sixteen10 – inspired fundraising

How the premature death of a much loved local UAE golfer inspired a fantastic fundraising business.

Talking Shop with Scott Sullivan

Pro Golf International’s Scott Sullivan gives us an ‘inside the ropes’ lowdown on the latest happenings in the golfing retail world.

Kevin Pietersen

The legendary batsman looks back on his decade-long career as one of the leading lights of English cricket and also discusses his love for the ancient game.

April 2016

CONTENTS Tour News

Regulars

12 61

The Starter – Masters Special

This month we turn our attention to Augusta and the first Major of the season. Will McIlroy complete the Grand Slam? Can Bubba win a third Green Jacket in five years? Will Jason Day win back-to-back Majors? Will Jordan Spieth successfully defend? PLUS: How Seve opened the door for European dominance throughout the 1980s and a look back to when Phil Mickelson clinched his third Masters title in 2010.

Arabian Golf

All the latest news from the leading golf clubs in the region as the UAE National Team clinch bronze at the GCC Championship at Doha GC, Qatar.

24

Sharjah Senior Invitational Pro-Am a huge success

WWG looks back at last month’s Sharjah Senior Invitational Pro-Am presented by Shurooq as a new European Senior Tour event is announced for 2017-2019. PLUS: All the latest news from the European Challenge Tour and the Road to Oman.

Instruction

55

Pure Strike Putting

Michael Jamieson, Director of Instruction at The Address Montgomerie Dubai, talks us through a simple drill to help you hit the sweet spot every time.

56

Contsants!

58

Carry bag drill

Stephen Deane, Head Professional at Emirtates Golf Club, showcases some ideas which will help you develop some constants in your game which will then lead to greater consistency.

Regulate and check the path of your club on impact with this simple drill from Danny Jakubowski, Director of Instruction at Abu Dhabi Golf Club, which uses nothing more complicated than a carry bag.

Gear

50 53 Worldwide GOLF 8

Titleist’s Performance balls

An in depth look at the range of Titleist’s Performance golf balls – the NXT Tour, NXT Tour S, Velocity and DT TruSoft

Ping G Fairway woods

Sam Taylor, ProSports International, gives us the lowdown on the new Ping G Fairway Woods.

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Editor’s Letter

By Alex Gallemore

ISSUE No.180 APRIL, 2016.

Published by: Worldwide Sporting Publications Ltd.

Augusta lights up the runways for the bombers to land

T

he Masters Tournament is without doubt the Major which undergoes the most stringent of preparations. Augusta National is always picture perfect, immaculate in every way, and the event is run with military precision.

Next to The Open Championship it’s the one the players want to win but I believe it’s becoming too much of a showcase for the big names.

Players get into The Masters by invitation only so it’s unlike the US Open or The Open where almost anyone can qualify and win.

Compared to the 150+ field of The Open, the number of competitors at The Masters makes it seem more like an exclusive club. I would argue that 10 of the past winners who make up the field have little to no chance of winning.

The likes of Tom Watson, Sandy Lyle and Ian Woosnam are there as a form of nostalgia, harking back to their glory days when they were top dogs. Then there are the handful of amateurs who get invited each year. Occasions when amateurs compete at the highest level are few and far between, so with this in mind the field of potential winners come Masters Sunday is smaller than 75.

Then there are the course alterations. Extra yardage was added to Tiger-proof the course after his record-breaking breakthrough in 1997 and if you look at the tee on the 18th these days it looks more like a runway! Earlier this year there were reports that the par-5 13th is going to be Bubba-proofed so he won’t be able to cut the corner again with a 360-yard fade and leave a wedge into the green. Having said that,

it’s hardly surprising that two-time winner Bubba will start the week as one of the favourites alongside Jason Day, Rory McIlroy and Justin Rose – all of whom drive it 310+ yards.

When Bubba takes on the par-5s with his pink driver and leaves himself a shorter second shot while others are going in with long irons, it’s fair to say the average hitter isn’t playing the same course as these modern-day bombers.

Ok, you could argue the case of Spieth and Zach Johnson having won in recent years but anyone who can get the short stick to average 27 putts a round will always stand a chance of winning any tournament.

Unlike the other Majors, especially The Open, the weather doesn’t come into play, so the long high hitters like Bubba and Rory can play all four days without altering their game. They can sleep soundly at night during the tournament week, safe in the knowledge that driving rain and high winds are highly unlikely to be a factor. All they have to focus on is hitting to those numbers and negotiating the pin positions.

It was interesting talking to Pete Cowen this month, and you can read what he has to say about Henrik Stenson’s chance at Augusta this year on Page 20, as he believes playing the bomber’s game like Bubba is the key to winning The Masters.

We also caught up with Greg Norman this month to talk about his project at Ayla Aqaba in Jordan, which is nearing completion, and another Major Champion with connections in the Middle East, Ernie Els talks to us on page 34 about his enduring love for the game and the return of the Autism Golf Challenge (an event his Els for Autism foundation benefits from) to the UAE this month.

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Published in Dubai by: Prografix, PO Box 24677, Dubai, UAE. (Tel) +9714 340 3785.

Editor-in-Chief: Mike Gallemore.

Executive Editor: Gary Player.

Editor: Alex Gallemore. alex@wspglobal.com.

Publisher: Mike Gallemore. mike@wspglobal.com General Manager Dubai: Richard Bevan: rick@wspglobal.com Editors: Todd Staszko, Scott Grayston.

Production/Design Editor: Thameem Rayyan.

Editorial Panel: Gary Player, Mike Gallemore, Alex Gallemore, Richard Bevan, Todd Staszko Photography: Getty Images, Joanna Eardley.

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THE MASTERS 2016

DID YOU KNOW:

The Course

Augusta National Home of The Masters since 1934

T

HE height of springtime drama is always found on this expansive and exclusive property on the industrial outskirts of the town of Augusta, Georgia. With the azaleas and dogwood in full bloom, framed by the striking white sand bunkers and famous water features, this is Augusta National.

While a lot has changed at the golf course over the years one thing remains the same – it’s still one of the most attractive and alluring layouts in the world.

Built over two years under the guidance of renowned architect Alastair MacKenzie, The Masters was first held in 1934, two years after the course was formally opened, with Horton Smith prevailing.

The next year a win (and a rare albatross) from Gene Sarazen helped elevate the new tournament’s standing. Two years later Byron Nelson triumphed and in the 1950s Ben Hogan and Sam Snead traded wins before the television age and the Big Three of Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player began to make their mark.

The total yardage in 1934 was 6,680.

Today the players play it at 7,435. In 1981 Bermuda grass, which grows to a quarter of an inch, was replaced by the faster and more consistent Bentgrass which is only an eighth-of-an-inch long.

Prior to this change the greens were never considered slow, but in 1981 they got an extreme boost and those undulating surfaces got that little bit trickier to decipher. n

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Competitors at the first Masters played the nines in opposite order.

The nines were flipped in 1935 and have been played that way ever since.

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THE MASTERS 2016

THE MASTERS 2016

DID YOU KNOW: There have been 24 holes-in-one at The Masters.

HOW SEVE STEERED EUROPEANS TO GLORY AT AUGUSTA NATIONAL The Spaniard’s Masters Moment in 1980 was the catalyst of things to come.

W

HEN it comes to The Masters and Europeans, the 1980s was a decade that will live long in the memory. The coveted Green Jacket would be draped on the shoulders of five European winners from Spain, Germany, England and Scotland, and it was due in no small part to Spanish legend Seve Ballesteros who won Europe’s first Masters in 1980.

The Masters Tournament, for its first few decades, provided a happy hunting ground for Americans to win in front of an American audience. Between the year of its inception in 1934 and 1980 there were only three wins by a non-American – all the same player, Gary Player (1961, 1974, 1978), and to add further perspective, only four Europeans were in the field in that fateful year that Seve Ballesteros made the European breakthrough.

The Spaniard was making his fourth consecutive trip down Magnolia Lane having finished T33, T18 and T12 from 77-79, Mark James was playing in his first and only Masters, Sandy Lyle was making his debut and amateur Peter McEvoy completed the quartet.

Seve later admitted to never feeling settled playing in America. He wasn’t keen on the long

haul flights, the food wasn’t to his taste and he was often homesick, especially as a young man in his early 20s. However, that didn’t deter the reigning Open Champion as he opened with a 6-under 66. He then added a second round 69 and by the time he signed for a Saturday 68 he was seven strokes clear.

Seve started like a train on the final day but, Seve being Seve, he made it interesting on the

OLAZÁBAL’S SECOND TITLE IN 1999 REMAINS THE LAST TIME A EUROPEAN LEFT AUGUSTA WITH A SPECIAL NEW ADDITION TO THEIR WARDROBE. back nine with a double bogey on the 12th after finding Rae’s Creek and then a bogey on the par-5 13th. However, a birdie on the 15th eased the pressure and he closed out a four-stroke win with a 72.

The 23-year-old, the youngest winner of the Masters at the time – until Tiger Woods in 1997 – paved the way for the glory years to follow. He won again in 1983 with another four stroke margin and two years later Bernhard

Langer was the victor, with Seve in a share of second place, two strokes back. Seve was again runner-up in 1987 as part of the play-off defeat to Larry Mize alongside Greg Norman, before Britain then delivered four wins in a row with Lyle winning with a birdie at the last in 1988, Sir Nick Faldo winning back-to-back in 1989-90 and Wales's Ian Woosnam clinching a gutsy one-stroke win in 1991. Langer would win again in 1993 before Seve’s great Ryder Cup partner, José Maria Olazábal won in 1994 and 1999. Olazábal’s second title remains the last time a European left Augusta with a special new addition to their wardrobe. n

What chance a European winner this year?

Rory McIlroy

n Fourth last year represents his best finish at Augusta. Led in 2011 but collapsed down the stretch.

Steady year so far but failed to close leads in LA and Miami, which is most unlike him.

Henrik Stenson

n Surprisingly the Swede has never had a top ten at Augusta but has posted three top 20s in succession.

He didn’t break 70 until 2013 – his eighth start.

Justin Rose

n Runner-up last year and four top-15s at Augusta, the 2013 US Open winner is more than capable.

Finished T9 at Bay Hill and T6 at Pebble Beach this year.

Sergio Garcia

n Garcia has long stated that Augusta doesn’t suit him but he has only missed 5 cuts out of 16. That being said, he rarely contends with just three top tens.

Solid form but still searching for a first win since 2014.

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Paul Casey

n Casey has posted three Augusta top tens, including sixth last year. His full time move to the USA has improved his results on the US PGA Tour.

Danny Willett

n Finished 38th in his Masters debut last year. Won in Dubai in January and was T3 at WGC at Doral. Hot form and fearless.

THE MASTERS 2016

Spin Back

April 2010

DID YOU KNOW:

The Green Jacket has been formally awarded to the winner since 1949.

Phil thrills for third Green Jacket

C

AN it really be six years ago that Phil Mickelson hit 'that' shot from the pine needles on the par-5 13th which helped propel him to a third Masters victory? Indeed it is. It seems so much has passed since 'Lefty' overhauled Lee Westwood’s 54-hole lead to clinch his fourth Major title.

After an up-and-down front nine Westwood relinquished the lead on the ninth with a bogey to fall one behind. The pair exchanged pars on holes 10 and 11 before Mickelson went two clear after draining a 20-footer from the back of the short 12th. Then we witnessed a piece of magic. Seemingly blocked from a route down the fairway by the pine trunks, Mickelson saw something we all couldn’t.

With a free swing he took dead aim at the flag from 200+ yards with his six iron and knocked it pin-high. That he missed the eagle putt didn’t matter. He matched Westwood’s birdie to remain two clear and after the Englishman failed to birdie the par-5 15th Mickelson went three clear. 'Westy' pulled a shot back with birdie at 17 but it was too little too late and Mickelson sealed the win with a birdie at the last.

Worldwide GOLF 16

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THE MASTERS 2016

DID YOU KNOW: Every year the previous winner dreams up a Champions Dinner. Tiger Woods served cheeseburgers in 1998.

THE MASTERS PREVIEW Augusta National. The Masters. After an eightmonth wait it’s finally Major season again as the 2016 schedule hits full steam with the familiar trip down Magnolia Lane in Augusta, Georgia. There are few more exciting weeks of the year. The players feel the buzz, the patrons feel the buzz and so do the millions watching on television around the world. This year Rory McIlroy could complete the Grand Slam.

Jordan Spieth could join Faldo, Nicklaus and Woods as back-to-back winners.

Jason Day could win back-to-back Majors. We could get a first European Masters champion of the new Century. The small, invitation-only field is jam packed with the finest players from around the world. What will unfold is sure to be another exciting chapter in this historic event.

LEADING THE HOME CHARGE

TEN OF THE LAST 15 EDITIONS OF THE MASTERS HAVE BEEN WON BY AMERICANS. HERE'S A BREAKDOWN OF THE LEADING CONTENDERS HEADING INTO THE FIRST MAJOR OF THE YEAR

▶ JORDAN SPIETH

▶ PHIL MICKELSON

The defending champion got off to a flyer this year with victory at the Tournament of Champions but a missed cut at Riviera and a T17 at Doral pegged him back. With his numbing accuracy and cool head expect him to contend.

Three top-fives so far this year but still to win since The Open in 2013, ‘Lefty’ is in fine touch and with three wins at Augusta already under his belt you’d be hard-pressed to find a more popular winner.

▶ RICKIE FOWLER Barely out of contention so far this year. An early win in Abu Dhabi set the ball rolling and he should arrive at Augusta full of confidence.

▶ BRANDT SNEDEKER Another player who got off to a fast start with two top threes and then a win at Torrey Pines, Snedeker has been beset by a recurring rib injury but should be fit for Augusta.

▶ MATT KUCHAR With three top-eight finishes in a row from 2012-14, The Masters represents Kuchar’s best chance of a maiden Major. Hasn’t missed the cut there in the last six outings. Just one top ten so far this campaign.

▶ DUSTIN JOHNSON

▶ PATRICK REED The fiesty Texan alreaady has four US PGA Tour wins to his name – including a WGC – but is yet to post a Major top ten.

Finished 22nd last year at Augusta after missing the cut on his debut in 2014.

▶ BUBBA WATSON History is on his side with wins in 2012 and 2014 and his form is red hot with a win at Riveria and runner-up at Doral. There has been talk of lengthening the par-5 13th after his 360-yard drive over the trees set up a wedge approach in 2014. One of the favourites.

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Plagued by numerous failings to close out Majors, there is a case for calling D.J. the best current player not to have won one of the four big ones. Posted top tens in three out of four Majors last year, including a first top ten at Augusta.

He should have won the US Open, three putting from 12-feet on the 72nd hole to hand Jordan Spieth the title.

DID YOU KNOW:

THE MASTERS 2016

The Masters was the first golf tournament to host a 72-hole event spread over four days.

Drop Anchor! Why Adam Scott is back in focus FORMER World No.1 Adam Scott has confounded those who thought he’d struggle with life after anchoring with back-to-back wins in Florida at The Honda Classic and the WGC-Cadillac Championship. The 2013 Masters champion looks to be in the form of his life and is in a good place outside the ropes with a settled family after the birth of his first child in February last year. Has the game and mental strength to win any Major and, crucially, he has momentum. However, after his WGC win he moved quickly to deflect any notion of him being the outright favourite heading into the year's first Major. “Even if I won every tournament I play before The Masters, if Bubba keeps finishing second, I’d still think he’s favoured," said Scott. "It just sets up so good for him and his record there is amazing over the last few years. He’s got to be feeling great about his game, but I’m happy if my name is in the mix. I wouldn’t shy away from it but I can’t just keep pushing.

I have to pace myself kind of so I don’t over-work it and try and get too prepared and do all that.

It’s finding that balance when the time comes for me that’s going to be really important, but obviously the confidence is going to be high right now. So I just want to do everything to keep the momentum there.”

DEBUTANTS: A DEBUTANT hasn't won at Augusta since Fuzzy Zoeller in 1979. Jordan Spieth came close in 2014 with a runner-up finish and then went one better last year. There are plenty of candidates for a potential debutant winner this year.

▶ ANDY SULLIVAN The chirpy Englishman underlined his potential with three wins last year including a 9-stroke win at the Portugal Masters.

Runner-up at the Dubai Desert Classic earlier this year and a top 20 finish on his Doral debut point to big things ahead.

▶ DAVID LINGMERTH Broke through on the US Tour last year with a play-off win over Justin Rose at the Memorial and was runner-up to Jason Dufner earlier this year in California.

THE INTERNATIONALS:

HISTORY IS AGAINST A EUROPEAN WINNER AT AUGUSTA SO WHO FROM THE REST OF THE WORLD CAN STEP IN AND GET THEIR HANDS ON THE MOST DESIRABLE PIECE OF ATTIRE IN THE GAME?

▶ JASON DAY

▶ BRANDEN GRACE

Finally broke his Major duck at the US PGA last year.

Has a runner-up and third place finish at Augusta on his resumé. His win at Bay Hill last month gets him heading in the right direction.

After contending in Majors for the first time at the US Open and US PGA last year, Grace has upped his game with another win at the Commecial Bank Qatar Masters in January.

Deceptively long and a strong putter, Grace is getting more and more comfortable on the big stage.

▶ KIRADECH APHIBARNRAT With two wins on The European Tour last year Kiradech Aphibarnrat has emerged as a promising young talent. Finished T6 at Bay Hill and looks to be in good form.

▶ RUSSELL KNOX The Scot earned his first professional title at the WGC-HSBC Champions in November and is embarking on his first year as a top-50 player.

Knows how to win with the world watching.

▶ ANIRBAN LAHIRI Shot to notoriety with a fifth place finish at last year’s US PGA. The Indian is playing a full schedule on the US circuit this year and has the length to overpower the par-5s.

▶ JUSTIN THOMAS Friend and college rival of Spieth, Justin Thomas won his first US Tour title in November and is making big strides in the game with a recent third place finish at the Honda Classic.

▶ LOUIS OOSTHUIZEN Runner-up at The Open and US Open last year and previously a runner-up at Augusta (2012), Oosthuizen has been in impressive touch this year with an eighth European Tour win in Perth in February.

▶ HIDEKI MATSUYAMA Collected his second US PGA Tour title in Phoenix in February and was fifth at Augusta last year. A cool head on young shoulders.

Facts and Stats Wire-to-Wire winners: Craig Wood (1941) Arnold Palmer (1960) Jack Nicklaus (1972) Raymond Floyd (1976) Jordan Spieth (2015) Oldest Winner: Jack Nicklaus (aged 46 in 1986)

There have been 16 play-offs in Masters history with Adam Scott winning the most recent in 2013 with a birdie on the second extra hole to defeat Angel Cabrera.

That came one year after Bubba Watson's miraculous shot from the trees which helped set-up a play-off win over Louis Oosthuizen.

IN NUMBERS

12

Phil Mickelson (2004), Adam Scott (2013) and Raymond Floyd all won their first Masters title in their 12th start.

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The biggest final round comeback is 7 strokes (Tiger Woods, 2005 and Sir Nick Faldo, 1990)

7

41 The oldest firsttime winner is Mark O’Meara, who was 41 when he won in 1998.

Worldwide Golf Columist

STENSON NEEDS TO UNLEASH THE DRIVER

By Pete Cowen, PGA Master Professional

T

HINGS COME around quickly in this game and for many players getting set for the Majors is all about timing.

Tiger and Faldo knew how to find a way to peak for the big events and with The Masters just around the corner the usual suspects are starting to find their game. I do feel that Augusta these days is made for Bubba Watson.

He just feels at home there and with his length, high ball flight and shot shaping he’s got the game and visualisation to take it on, whereas other players might have to play more conservatively. I’ve always said that you need to get to know Augusta to stand a chance of winning but in recent years it has become a power-hitter’s course.

Unlike the other Majors you aren’t affected by the weather, so the luck of the draw isn’t an issue. You aren’t going to get calm conditions in the morning and high winds in the afternoon, so players will hardly need to alter their style of play from one round to the next.

The longer players with a high ball flight will always have the edge over the rest of the field, not only off the tee but with their ability to hold greens and take on pins with a more lofted club from the fairway – or even the rough. This is why I believe that Bubba, Jason Day, Adam Scott, Justin Rose and Rory will be the hot favourites. Jordan Spieth has been in mixed form so far this season but all it takes is for him to get that putter working and he will be right up there.

I’ve been working with Henrik Stenson for many years now and he’s certainly got the power to knock it past the best of them. I just need to get him to pull the driver out of the bag a little more. If you look at his stats many might think that

he’s an average hitter but that’s down to the fact that he hits three-wood off most tee boxes, even on the longest holes. At the Arnold Palmer Invitational the other week, an event he should have won, he was paired with McIlroy and Day and still managed to keep up with them off the tee – even with his three wood.

He’s in total control with that club and can shape the ball with ease, so it’s hardly surprising he’s 7th in Driving Accuracy on the US PGA Tour this year.

But to win The Masters he needs to go all out and take it on by following Watson and co. with the driver. Take the par-5 13th for example. If Henrik hits threewood off the tee he’s left with a fouriron as opposed to an 8-iron if he took driver. He’d also be left with only a 7-iron into the 15th, a huge advantage over most of the field.

Henrik’s main aim this year is to win a Major and the Olympics and I believe if he goes all out with the driver at Augusta he could be wearing the Green Jacket come Masters Sunday.

Danny Willett is another one of my lads who could place well at The Masters. His game is in great shape and his confidence is growing with each event.

It was a shock to see Padraig Harrington miss the cut at the Hero Indian Open. He’s hitting it great from tee to green, but I need to find out what’s happening on the greens. Once that piece of the jigsaw is sorted out I’d expect Padraig to win again this year. n

FIRE POWER Stenson has the power to take on McIlroy and Watson round Augusta. The majority of Henrik’s 2016 PGA TOUR averages have been calculated from his three wood and not a driver!

Stenson

McIlroy

Watson

Longest Drive

Longest Drive

Longest Drive

356 359 411 292 309 311 119.3 119.6 121.3 Yards

Driving average

Yards

Clubhead speed

mph

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Yards

Driving average

Yards

Clubhead speed

mph

Yards

Driving average Yards

Clubhead speed mph

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Ian Sumpter, TORO (seen right), took the technicians through industry best practises during the two days training.

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Worldwide Golf Columist

RORY CAN THINK HIS WAY TO GLORY

By David Howell,

T

European

HE LONG WAIT is over and once again the world’s best players are heading to Augusta for the first Major of the year. How I wish I was one of them but sadly, once again, I won’t be making the trip to play in the most special of all tournaments.

Each of the Majors has its own flavour and are special in their own way but The Masters stands alone in the minds of the players for so many reasons. Coming back to the same course year after year could seem boring for players and fans alike but, as we know, it seems to have the opposite effect on all concerned.

Turning into Magnolia Lane is something special and it’s every golfer’s favourite drive. Once you have turned in through the gates your juices start to flow unlike any other week of the year. Only The Ryder Cup can trump it for anticipation amongst the players. We all know the course like the back of our hand now, so comprehensive has the coverage become. That familiarity of the surroundings just adds to the enjoyment when sitting back in the armchair to see the azaleas in full bloom. One thing you can’t argue with, is that Augusta National is a pretty place.

But who stands the best chance of slipping on the Green Jacket this year? Well, we could be in for a fantastic Masters. All the world’s top players are in form. Rory McIlroy has played nicely without winning in his last few events. He will certainly fancy his chances because of his winless streak. When you are as good as Rory and you’re playing nicely, you know the next win is just around the corner. This was said so many times about Greg Norman, surely he can’t go through his career without winning The Masters?

Amazingly, it didn’t happen for Greg but I do believe it will happen for Rory and I really do think he will come as close as he ever has this week.

Course management plays such a huge role around Augusta and if Rory can have his best thinking-week I believe he will be hard to beat.

Having said that, Adam Scott is right back in form, having had back-to-back wins last month. The experience of coming out on top is always an advantage and I would be surprised if he isn’t up there around the top of the leaderboard come Masters Sunday.

Jason Day plays well at every Major it seems. He always brings his A- game to the big events, and fresh off his win at Bay Hill he might well be the most confident of all the star performers. The star names just keep on coming: Rickie Fowler has been in

Tour Professional

tremendous form this year, although his only weakness might be the way he failed to win in Scottsdale a few weeks back when in control of the tournament. It was an unusual blip, mind you. Rickie is as good as any guy at closing out a tournament. Failing to do so might have come as a bit of a shock to his system, as will his tracksuit trousers to the members of Augusta. I do hope they let him in through the gates.

The biggest question mark in the top four probably has to go to the defending champion Jordan Spieth. No doubt he has had a poor month of golf. However, running around the world can do that to a man. Even the best players can struggle with being over-golfed. Fair play to Jordan for jet-setting around the globe to show off his game to please the world’s golf fans. No doubt he earned a few bob for doing so, too, but he deserves those incentives.

Having the best players happy to travel outside of the States is hugely important for golf worldwide. It would be a big ask for him to successfully defend his title, something so few people have done. Although you can never count him out I wouldn’t be backing him this time around.

Augusta suits the lefties. There’s no doubt about that, so you always have to give Phil Mickelson a shout but time stands still for no man, not even one of the world’s most talented players, so I would be looking towards Augusta specialist Bubba Watson, particularly if you’re a believer in horses for courses.

Mighty length and happiest hitting a fade is perfect around the rolling fairways of Augusta, and the most outrageous player in golf will give anyone a run for their money.

If you’re looking for outsiders and a bit more value for you money why not have a look at Danny Willett for an each-way chance. Britain’s most in-form player, certain to make this year’s Ryder Cup Team and someone who really challenged at last year’s Open, Danny is on top of the world at present. He will relish going to the year’s first Major in the form of his life, although keeping his expectations at bay could be his biggest challenge.

So there you have it. I reckon the winner will come from the top ten players in the world.

Augusta is a hell of a challenge nowadays so you could say my choices are somewhat obvious.

But one thing is for sure, this year’s Masters is guaranteed to bring a sparkle to the world of golf once again. n

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"Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club is truly delighted to be hosting such a high profile and truly international sporting event. This initiative has been in the pipeline for three or four years now and it is thrilling to finally announce the event and for us to play such a big part in putting the Emirate of Sharjah well and truly on the global map.� – H.E. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdulla Al Thani, Deputy Chairman, Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club (left) pictured with H.E. Marwan Jassim Al Al Sarkal, Chief Executive, Officer, Shurooq, at the announcement.

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TOUR NEWS

SHARJAH SENIOR GOLF MASTERS PRESENTED BY SHUROOQ HERALDS EUROPEAN SENIOR TOUR’S UAE RETURN

S

HUROOQ, the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority, has partnered with the European Senior Tour to host the Sharjah Senior Golf Masters presented by Shurooq at the Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club from 2017 to 2019, becoming the fifth current European Tour initiative in the United Arab Emirates.

The inaugural 54-hole event, sanctioned by the Emirates Golf Federation and supported by Sharjah Sports Council and the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, will take place at the Peter Harradine-designed course from March 16 to 18, 2017, forming part of the European Senior Tour Order of Merit, with a sizeable prize fund of US$450,000 on offer.

Global Map H.E. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdulla Al Thani, Deputy Chairman, Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club, said: “Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club is delighted to be hosting such a high profile and truly international sporting event. This initiative has been in the pipeline for three or four years now and it is thrilling to finally announce the event and for us to play such a big part in putting the Emirate of Sharjah well and truly on the global map.

“Our club itself also justifies its place on such a stage as we get an opportunity to showcase our unique range of facilities which, beyond a world class fully floodlit golf course and state of the art academy, include the indoor shooting ranges, a paintball park, four gymnasiums, archery, tennis, basketball courts, swimming pools and spas. We are all truly excited and confident that the event will be thoroughly enjoyed by the thousands of people who visit us over the course of the week as well

as the millions watchiing it on television worldwide.”

The three-year agreement, which promises to see some of golf’s most enduring talents grace the United Arab Emirates will mark the fourth time the European Senior Tour has visited the Middle East with tournaments in Abu Dhabi and Bahrain.

H.E. Marwan Jassim Al Sarkal, Chief Executive Officer, Shurooq, believes that the Sharjah Senior Golf Masters will provide the perfect platform to showcase the Emirate’s merits as an investment, tourism, sport and business destination.

He said: “Shurooq’s partnership with the European Senior Tour to present the Sharjah Senior Golf Masters is in line with our strategy and vision to promote Sharjah as one of the most diverse investment cities in the world.

"Our objective through this grand event is to continue in promoting Sharjah’s facilities, services and tourism as a key destination for hosting some of the world’s most luxurious and bespoke sporting events of their kind. The Sharjah Senior Golf Masters serves as a key opportunity for international players, sponsors and international companies involved in the tournament to visit and explore Sharjah’s magnificent tourism destinations, culture, heritage and unique architecture.”

Luxurious Al Sarkal added: “Golf is one of the most popular and luxurious sports in the UAE. Many international companies are investing in the golf industry and choosing the UAE as their top choice to host worldrenowned golf tournaments.

"The UAE leads the Middle East in high-end investments in the sports industry and it shows no signs of slowing down. We are confident that the Sharjah Senior Golf Masters will open doors for

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world-renowned sporting associations and tournament organisers to invest in Sharjah as a key destination to host their respective events.”

The announcement was marked with a curtain-raising Pro-Am event, the Sharjah Senior Invitational Pro-Am presented by Shurooqand supported by Emirates, BMW and the Sheraton Sharjah, which featured three former Ryder Cup stars in the form of Des Smyth, Ronan Rafferty and Paul Broadhurst.

Competitors The former Ryder Cup stars are regular competitors on the European Senior Tour and each has witnessed the phenomenal boom in golf in the region over the past three decades having competed in the inaugural Dubai Desert Classic in 1989.

Also in the field was Malcolm Mackenzie, who claimed the Open de France in 2002 at the venue where the 2018 Ryder Cup will take place, Le Golf National.

Irishman Smyth, an eight-time European Tour winner who represented Europe in both the 1979 and 1981 Ryder Cup, said: “It’s wonderful to see how much the UAE, and the game of golf has developed since I first started coming here. The whole region is thriving and it’s become a real hub for international golf. It is fantastic news that Sharjah is going to join the stable of world-class golf events hosted in the UAE and all the players on the European Senior Tour will really enjoy coming to this wonderful destination.”

Andy Stubbs, Managing Director, European Senior Tour, said: “We’re delighted to announce the Sharjah Senior Golf Masters presented by Shurooq. It is a tri-party agreement between Shurooq, Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club and The European Senior Tour and we thank all parties for their hard work and passion in making this project possible.” n

The Mark of a Player

速

PER FO R MAN CE G O LF APPAR EL

EXPLORE FOOTJOY.CO.UK | GREGORY BOURDY | EVOKE COLLECTION

Soderberg takes first Road to Oman of 2016 SEBASTIEN Soderberg won the curtain-raising event on this year’s European Challenge Tour with a three-shot win at The Barclays Kenya Open in Nairobi to open up an early lead on the Road to Oman.

Soderberg earned 35,200 points thanks to his win to lead by 11,000 points from Frenchman Romain Langasque on the Road to Oman, and the 25-year-old is looking to kick on with 27 events still to play on this year’s schedule.

“It feels pretty unreal right now,” said the Swede after accepting the trophy. “I was just trying to keep it together all day – one of my goals for the season was to win an event on the Challenge Tour, so I’ve crossed that off the list already.

“It’s my first Challenge Tour win and I’m not sure how it’s going to affect me, but I’m definitely more excited for the rest of the season.

“I had a slow front nine but I managed to make a few birdies around the turn and after that I just tried to keep calm and carry on – it was tough, but it feels really good now.

“The crowds and support were incredible. I missed the cut here last year so I didn’t get to experience the weekend atmosphere but I’ve never known a Challenge Tour event like it, it was amazing.”

Soderberg finished 31st on last year’s Road to Oman in what was his debut campaign on the European Challenge Tour.

Amateurs included for the 2016 Road to Oman In a new initiative for 2016, Amateurs who play in four Challenge Tour events and pay the membership fee to the Tour will be given a ranking on the Road to Oman, from which they are entitled to earn a full category for the following season – providing they turn professional before taking up membership thereafter.

As a result of this development, the Road to Oman has changed from a money list to a points list, with one point for each equivalent Euro earned, but amateurs will continue in not being able to win prize money.

Alain de Soultrait, European Challenge Tour Director (left), said: “This is a move that makes a lot of

sense as one of the Challenge Tour’s main purposes is to help develop young golf stars. This will help to encourage ambitious amateur golfers by offering a clear route into the

“The main message is that if a player is good enough to compete with the professionals on the Challenge Tour, that player deserves an opportunity to progress” - Alain de Soultrait professional game. The main message is that if a player is good enough to compete with the professionals

THE 2016 ROAD TO OMAN BONUS POOL

THE 2016 Road to Oman Bonus Pool will be divided amongst the leading three players in The Road to Oman as calculated at the conclusion of (and taking into account the Road to Oman Rankings money won by players participating in) the 2016 NBO Golf Classic Grand Final. *The Bonus Pool Official Money (€EURO) will be included within the final Road to Oman Rankings for the 2016 Official Season.

The Road to Oman – THE LOWDOWN

on the Challenge Tour, that player deserves an opportunity to progress through the ranks at a rate befitting his achievements.”

Keith Waters, European Tour Director of International Policy, said: “We are proud of the excellent role the Challenge Tour plays in developing top class professional golfers, and the move to encourage amateurs, and to reward them for their efforts, is an enormously positive step.

“Already this season we have seen Brandon Stone and Haydn Porteous, Challenge Tour players last season, take maiden victories in their rookie campaigns on The European Tour and they are merely the latest in a long line of successes."

Road to Oman Bonus Pool: EURO € 1.

30,000 2.

20,000 3.

10,000

Upcoming Events

THE Road to Oman is a season-long competition spanning 28 tournaments in 22 countries and three continents on The 2016 European Challenge Tour Schedule.

This year’s Road to Oman winner will receive a European Challenge Tour Rankings Silver Salver (first awarded in 2009), and Category 13 Membership of The European Tour for 2017. The inaugural Road to Oman Bonus Pool will count as Official Money on the final Road to Oman Rankings.

Last year’s NBO Golf Classic Grand Final saw the 45 highest-ranked players battle it out for the top 15 spots in the final Road to Oman Rankings, earning graduation to The European Tour. Ricardo Gouveia (right) topped the Rankings and finished off his incredible season with a stunning victory, giving him the highest total earnings for a season in European Challenge Tour history.

Red Sea Egyptian Challenge Presented

by Hassan Allam Properties Date: April 20 - 23 Venue: Sokhna Golf Club, Suez, Egypt Purse: €180,000

Challenge Trophy Date: April 28 - May 01 Venue: Real Club de Golf, Madrid, Spain Purse: €170,000

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GREG NORMAN GOLF COURSE DESIGN

JORDAN COMES ALIVE JORDAN’S First 18-hole Grass Golf Course is transforming the Aqaba Seaport into a World-Class Business Hub and Travel Destination. As the designer of the first championship golf course in Jordan, I am thrilled that the entire course has been grassed and that the Signature golf course will be ready for invitational play towards the end of the year. This is a crucial step in bringing Jordan and Aqaba to the forefront of the region’s tourism industry.

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5.86

MW

5.86 mega watts are generated by Ayla’s current solar panels. Enough power to run the entire Red Sea to lagoon pumping operation which totals 1 million cubic metres of water a day.

W

ITH the combination of our strong Greg Norman brand and the superior facilities and amenities offered at Ayla, we believe the level of quality at this project is truly unmatched.

Overlooking the scenic views of the Red Sea, the Ayla Golf Course has been artfully master-planned from the impressive Marina Village, to the five-star hotel offerings, to the real estate, to the golf course and beyond. The stunning water features and eco-friendly landscaping throughout the property makes Ayla a true oasis and is a perfect reflection of the region’s finest attributes.

I am particularly captivated by the surrounding architecture that mirrors the rolling mountains and dune formations of the vast desert landscape.

In addition to our 18-hole Championship golf course, Ayla GC will offer a teaching academy, a 9-hole par-3 course and a state-of-the-art driving range for locals and visitors, providing them with the opportunity to learn and develop their game on the best facilities in the region.

Upon the completion and the build-out, this project will create hundreds of permanent jobs and will be strategically important for Jordan’s sustainable economic development. The longterm vision for Ayla will most certainly play a key role in transforming the Aqaba seaport into a world-class business hub and travel destination. I

150units

The residue of additional power is used to power the cooling in 150 Marina village apartments.

19

wells

In addition, the solar panels provide enough energy to run the entire golf course including: well pumps, irrigation network and floodlighting. am personally committed to the Middle East and have been for more than a decade. I was fortunate enough to be a part of the initial growth of the game in Dubai many years ago and feel that bringing a similar level of golf to Jordan has the potential to have the same impact.

Last November’s DP World Tour Championship, won by Rory McIlroy, was the seventh running of The European Tour’s end of season climax played on the Earth course we created at Jumeirah Golf Estates. The Fire course at JGE, which we also designed, is expected to host the Grand Final in the near future.

Another of the courses we designed in the Middle East, Almouj Golf, The Wave, at Muscat in Oman, last year hosted the NBO Golf Classic Grand Final of the European Challenge Tour, having hosted the penultimate event on the Challenge Tour in 2013 and 2014. The Grand Final takes place again in November at Almouj, which, set along the spectacular shoreline of the Gulf of Oman, has received worldwide acclaim.

I fully expect golf to continue to develop in the Middle East and I look forward to assisting in this endeavour and serving as an ambassador to this great game in a region I feel so passionate about.

With golf becoming an Olympic sport this summer, the international growth of the game will increase exponentially. There are 118 member countries in the International Golf Federation, many of which will now receive government funding to support grass roots development.

A huge expansion is imminent in many parts of the world and the Middle East is no exception.

My hope is that the return of golf to the Olympics will be a success in the eyes of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and that they vote it back in again for 2020. But my fear is that they have chosen the wrong place to re-introduce golf, as Brazil is a country where golf is not exactly mainstream.

Had our sport returned to the Olympics to Australia, England or the United States, where golf courses are of a higher quality, then the

“I was fortunate enough to be a part of the initial growth of the game in Dubai many years ago and feel that bringing a similar level of golf to Jordan has the potential to have the same impact.” –Greg Norman

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FEATURE

AYLA GOLF COURSE

235

metres of the Aqaba coastline have been adapted to create a marina access channel and two beach-fronted lagoons.

delivery would be a lot easier. There is just so much underlying uncertainty about the course in Brazil and the structure on the periphery, with ownership and environmental concerns. That worries me a lot.

It’s a really important moment because if we fail, then golf may not get back into the Olympics for another 100 years.

Golf benefits society, and accelerating the growth of the game and expanding its accessibility will improve the quality of life for those who are introduced to its positive values.

It is crucial to effectively and consistently communicate golf’s economic, human and environmental contributions to society. My congratulations go out to Dubai and the UAE, Oman, Jordan, Qatar and the Middle East in general for doing such an incredible job of this.

Greg Norman Golf Course Design Promise is integrated into each project we handle and of Sustainability results in courses that blend seamlessly with WITH rapid development often times their surroundings and appear as if they comes legitimate environmental have been part of the landscape for concerns. As a golf course designer, generations. For all of us at Greg my challenge is to create Norman Design, sustainability aesthetically pleasing yet is integral to how we do playable courses, each with a business. With 7 billion people distinct look and feel. on our planet, the earth’s I like to “begin with the 17.1 km of additional coastline has resources can be strained. end in mind” on each and Consequently, We believe that created17 individual beaches every project I embark upon we have a responsibility to our with 1 million cubic and I pride myself on finding customers, to the communities metres of sea water pumped the most desirable natural and to the environment in and circulated per day. features and incorporating which we have a presence. This them into the routing. Our means sustainability is the only “least-disturbance” design approach acceptable model for our business.

17.1

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FEATURE

AYLA GOLF COURSE

56

BUNKERS ON THE CHAMPIONSHIP COURSE 14 ON THE PAR-3 COURSE

“As we now begin to release to the marketplace our Golf Residence community, the actual sales apartment enables potential home owners to fully appreciate the spectacular view of Greg Norman’s course and the Red Sea beyond. It really is breathtaking.” –Sahl Dudin, Managing Director, Ayla CHRIS WHITE, Director of Operations, Ayla Aqaba, comments: IT’S an exciting time at the Ayla Golf Club right now. All that largely remains is for Mother Nature to lend a supporting hand. As in many parts of the world, Aqaba Jordan is coming out of its slightly cooler winter months with temperatures now rising to 21-24 degrees.

The newly planted grass is starting to show signs of life. The cooler winter months saw the purposefully selected Paspallum Platinum grass drift into dormancy with little or no growth. This period allowed the Ayla Golf Club construction team to finish off pending tasks.

The native rough areas were hydro-seeded (quite literally spraying areas of the golf course with a blend of water and organic mulch), with four varieties of seeds in the mix. Final bunker shaping and construction was completed with the edges turfed for protection and kilometres of interlocking cart paths were hand laid, while local new recruits continue to be trained in the art and skill of green keeping – Ayla Golf Club is certainly coming alive.

The next five to six months have been programmed for the maintenance team to take advantage of the warmer weather and complete the final grow-in of this world-class Championship golf course ready for invitational play towards the end of the year.

In parallel with this, the luxurious state-of-the-art Golf Academy, which will initially be home to all golf operations, is well underway. The spectacular iconic architecture adds yet further quality and style to this already amazing project. Its swing studios, putting lab, all-day dining restaurant and terrace, club repair workshop and boutique pro-shop will soon be open to all. ■

Ayla’s Chairman Khalid Masri and Managing Director Sahl Dudin are finally seeing the vision of the masterplan vision coming to life. As non-golfers their introduction to the game has begun in playing four holes of the front nine. The entire Ayla team, the Aqaba community and Jordan as a whole are eagerly awaiting the opening of the country’s first championship golf venue and with a fully floodlit Par-3 course it is only a matter of time before Jordan produces some new golfing talent.

Ayla Managing Director Sahl Dudin commented:

“Ayla Golf Course is one of a number of leisure and entertainment elements at Ayla that includes beaches, play areas, interactive zones and a worldclass marina. The routing and design of the golf course was made to ensure maximum gain from the residential plots that border the course.” As we now begin to release to the marketplace our Golf Residence community, the actual sales apartment enables potential home owners to fully appreciate the spectacular view of Greg Norman’s course and the Red Sea beyond. It really is breathtaking.” ■

ABOVE: The world-class marina Golf Residence community villas overlook the clear blue waters of the lagoons, the golf course and the Red Sea beyond.

BELOW: An artist’s impression of the spectacular iconic state-of-the-art Golf Academy and Clubhouse.

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ERNIE’S STILL HEAD OVER HEELS

H

E’s one of the most enduring talents the game has seen and while the likes of Jordan Spieth, Jason Day, Rickie Fowler and Rory McIlroy are stealing the limelight these days, the four-time Major champion is still just as hungry for success as ever.

Results haven’t come quite as easy for The Big Easy over the last couple of seasons and for a man with 70 worldwide victories to his name, including two US Opens and two Open Championships, you might think, why bother anymore? But Els is true lover of the game – it’s in his blood

and sweats from his every pore. He’s showed glimpses of the old brilliance this season, including at the Dubai Desert Classic – an event he’s won a record three times – when he was within a shot of the lead at the halfway point and was only undone by a third round 74.

As the Autism Golf Challenge – an event Ernie’s 'Els for Autism Foundation' is a beneficiary from – returns to the UAE this month, Richard Bevan catches up with the 46 year old South African to talk about the charitable work of the Foundation and his long lasting love affair with the game.

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CITY LIGHTS ERNIE AND WIFE LIEZL ENJOY THE VIEWS OF 'THE STRIP' DURING LAST YEAR'S ELS FOR AUTISM GRAND FINALE IN LAS VEGAS

FEATURE ERNIE ELS

of our family of golfers, donors and partners, that dream is becoming a reality. We’ve a long way to go still, but welcoming the first students at the Lower School last year was a proud moment for us. We’ve recently opened a short game practice area at the Center, which the kids love, and that will be the hub of our #GameOn Autism Golf Programming. Also we can now get started on the Upper School.

All along we knew that we wanted the Center of Excellence to be much more than a school; we wanted it to be a game-changing facility that would positively impact the autism community locally, nationally and internationally through our various global programmes. That’s happening now. And this is just the beginning. It’s incredibly exciting to think what could be achieved for the autism community in the next 10 years and beyond.

NOW THAT IS ACE! ERNIE AND WIFE LIEZL CELEBRATE WITH RICKIE FOWLER AFTER HIS US$1 MILLION HOLE IN ONE.

WORLDWIDE GOLF: You must have been overwhelmed by Rickie’s hole-in-one at the The 8th Annual Wine Spectator and Cigar Aficionado Els for Autism Pro Am in Florida last month with $1m donated to the Charity?

ERNIE ELS: Yes thanks - it was an incredible moment, something none of us will ever forget. I woke up the next day and almost couldn’t believe it had actually happened.

Rickie’s our hero now!

WWG: I guess you’ve been texting ‘thanks’ to Rickie every day since?

EE: We did, although only for the first few days.

By that stage it had gone viral on the Internet and been picked up by a lot of the major TV networks. The million bucks was obviously huge for our foundation, it means we can get started on building the upper school at The Els Center of Excellence, but so too was the extra awareness that this event created for autism. It’s enabled us to get our message out there to a whole new audience.

WWG: The Els for Autism movement has developed and grown immeasurably since you started it with the Lower School and Auditorium opening at the Els Center of Excellence in Florida last year – are you proud of how much has been achieved so far and do you have high hopes for the future?

EE: Absolutely. It’s a dream that has been in the pipeline since 2009 when we set up the foundation and now, thanks to the support

WWG: The UAE Autism Challenge run by Lifestyle Events kicks off in April with two events across Abu Dhabi and Dubai – have you been impressed with the support the series has received from this region?

EE: As many people know April is Autism Awareness Month and we are proud that Duayne Baron de Waal and his team at Lifestyle Events have selected us along with the Al Jalila Foundation in Dubai as the beneficiaries of the proceeds from the two events as well as a third one taking place in September. I’ve heard the response for sign up has already been big and the winners will join us in Las Vegas at our own event later in the year. Autism is a global issue and the more we can spread awareness and knowledge, the better it is for everyone. And I have to give a special mention to the guys at The Els Club Dubai who have been very pro-active in terms of initiating events and promoting the cause.

Also the team and members at the Abu Dhabi Golf Club. The players will get to play two of the very best courses in the region at the events this month.

OPEN GLORY

Ernie kisses the Claret Jug after winning The Open at Royal Lytham & St Annes in 2012. His fourth Major championship victory and his second Open Championship to match his two U.S. Opens.

MILLION DOLLAR MAN

RICKIE FOWLER IS HOISTED ALOFT AFTER MAKING A HOLE IN ONE AT THE ELS FOR AUTISM PRO-AM IN FLORIDA LAST MONTH TO EARN A US$1 MILLION DONATION FOR THE CHARITY.

BUILDING SUCCESS

I WOKE UP THE NEXT DAY AND ALMOST COULDN’T BELIEVE IT HAD ACTUALLY HAPPENED. RICKIE’S OUR HERO NOW! Worldwide GOLF 35

ERNIE'S WIFE LIEZL CHECKS ON THE PROGRESS OF THE BUILDING WORK FOR THE ELS CENTER OF EXCELLENCE IN FLORIDA WHICH WILL PROVIDE ON-SITE EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN AFFECTED BY AUTISM.

Summer Privilege Card Experience Luxury at The Els Club!

Play Unlimited Golf At The Els Club from 1st June to 30th September 2016

Individual: AED 4,950 Family: AED 7,450 Package includes:

Early Bird Promotion:

-

- Sign up before 1st May 2016 and enjoy 4 x complimentary rounds of golf during the month of May & a Pro Shop gift

The Els Club Summer Series Driving range access 10% discount on F&B 10% discount at the Pro Shop (5% on hardware) Preferential guest rate

Applicable to both packages. Terms and conditions apply.

For further details, please call 04 425 1000 or email membership@elsclubdubai.com The Els Club Dubai

@TheELSCLUBDUBAI

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The_Els_Club_Dubai

FEATURE ERNIE ELS

FAMILY FUN! ERNIE PLAYS WITH SON BEN, WHO SUFFERS FROM AUTISM, DURING THE ELS #GAMEON AUTISM CLINIC AT THE HONDA CLASSIC LAST YEAR. WWG: Last year you were the recipient of the Payne Stewart Award thanks largely to your work for Els for Autism and the Els & Fancourt Foundation. Is being recognized in this way as gratifying as winning tournaments?

EE: It’s very different. But yes it’s gratifying and also very humbling. I have fond memories of Payne and always had the greatest respect for him as a golfer and as a person. I think this award is a wonderful way to honor his memory and the values that he stood for. I was very proud to be nominated.”

WWG: Have you done anything different with your game in 2016?

EE: Actually, the Desert Swing was a bit of a breakthrough for me on the greens. I’d switched to the cross-handed putting grip earlier in the year and the first really positive signs were in Qatar when I was 100 per cent for putts inside five feet. But it was in Dubai that it first started to show-up properly in my scoring. We’re a few months along now and I’m feeling comfortable with the set-up and my stroke; it’s such a big step forward and that makes me excited about the rest of the season ahead.

WWG: How much does it spur you on to see youngsters coming through and making a charge at the big titles like Speith, McIlroy and Fowler?

EE: I’m extremely self-motivated, so I have that competitive fire inside me anyway, but yeah it’s fun mixing it with the young kids. The names you mention, and guys like Adam Scott and Jason Day, are performing at a very high level but I feel like I still have the game to compete and win. We also have to talk about all that great talent coming out of South Africa and other regions. The quality of play on all tours is incredibly high.

WWG: Life on Tour must get fairly repetitive – are there any stops on the PGA or European Tour that still feel fresh and exciting each time you visit?

EE: I really don’t find it repetitive. I love what I do and obviously we would probably like more time to explore every destination that we go to but we make amazing friends along the way and to see them each year is always fun. I still have my favourites and the Desert Swing would definitely be right up there.

Everything about the tournaments we play in that region is absolutely world-class and I always look forward to going back there.

ON THE UP ERNIE WAS IN THE HUNT FOR A RECORD FOURTH DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC TITLE IN FEBRUARY HAVING SWITCHED TO A 'LEFT HAND LOW' PUTTING GRIP.

WWG: With four Majors on your CV and countless worldwide victories – do you still make goals and ambitions at the start of each year?

EE: I do. Tournament wins and Majors are what it’s all about for me. That’s what motivates me still and, as I said, I feel like on my day I have the game to win.

WWG: The Presidents Cup has grown in stature since its inception and you have played a huge part in its history. Is becoming a Captain in the near future something that appeals to you?

EE: Definitely. The Presidents Cup is a wonderful event and it has given me some incredible moments in my career. That team atmosphere is very special and it’s something pretty unique for us as players.

It would really mean a lot to me to be able to captain the International side one day.

WWG: What’s the first piece of advice you’d give to an Amateur playing partner during a Pro-Am? EE: Let’s enjoy it. We’re out here to have some fun today!”

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ERNIE QUICKFIRE:

BEST FRIEND ON TOUR? All of us South African guys are pretty close friends.

LAST MOVIE YOU SAW? The Big Short.

FAVOURITE WAY TO RELAX? Being home and spending time with the family.

BEST TIPS FOR GETTING OVER JET-LAG? Hydrate by drinking lots of water and a quick workout in the gym.

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FEATURE ERNIE ELS

COMPETITORS ENJOY THE FUN AT LAST YEAR'S AUTISM GOLF CHALLENGE AT THE ELS CLUB IN DUBAI.

THE AUTISM GOLF CHALLENGE RETURNS TO THE UAE

N

ow in its second year, the Autism Golf Challenge is a series of amateur golf events in the Middle East that raise awareness and funds for Autism.

In 2015 Duayne Baron de Waal, CEO Lifestyle Events, created this event at The Els Club Dubai with proceeds being shared between the Dubai Autism Center and the Els for Autism Foundation.

The success of the 2015 tournament has led to the addition of two more events in 2016 - one at Abu Dhabi Golf Club on April 7 and another at Arabian Ranches Golf Club on September 22. These two events will make up the 2016 Autism Golf Challenge in the Middle East along with the existing original event on the April 28 at The Els Club.

The series will bring together a large number of regional and international corporates to play and network at these one day golf tournaments which also include a dinner and charity auction.

The team at Lifestyle Events have a strong history in the region for event management and creation that benefit many local and international charities.

Event Beneficiaries: The Els for Autism Foundation and the Al Jalila Foundation Dates April 7 – 2016 at the Abu Dhabi National Golf Club April 28 – 2016 at The Els Club in Dubai September 22 – 2016 at the Arabian Ranches Golf Club Format of Play: Pairs Betterball Stableford with ¾ Handicap Allowance * The Event is open to all Amateurs with a official handicap With various on course competitions and fantastic Hole in One prizes sponsored full fields followed by a beautiful evening of networking, dinner, music, and a Charity Live Auction.

The winning pairs will earn an exclusive ticket into the Grand Finale hosted by the Els for Autism Foundation in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA! 2016 Event Website and Registration Page: www.elsforautism.golfgenius.com

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www.europeantourproperties.com

European Tour Properties

E

uropean Tour Properties is a network of world class golf venues, all of which have a close relationship with The European Tour, spanning Europe, the Middle East and South-East Asia.

Since 2009, when London Golf Club in England became the first European Tour Destination, the network has expanded into an influential and internationally-recognised collection of high quality venues in diverse locations. All venues in the network boast the hallmark of tournament-quality golf courses while also offering extensive off-course facilities guaranteed to provide a memorable experience for golfers and visitors alike.

Six European Tour Destinations will host European Tour tournaments this year, including the Earth course at Jumeirah Golf Estates hosting the season-ending DP World Tour Championship, and with PGA Catalunya Resort also playing host to the European Tour Qualifying School Final Stage.

European Tour Properties provides its network venues with access to the global assets of The European Tour and to a network of world class courses in key markets.

The venues also benefit from year-long support in improving courses and facilities, assistance with brand, sales and marketing and operational support, all targeted at enabling these courses to sell more green fees, memberships, real estate and hotel rooms.

The network continues to expand, with four courses – Black Mountain Golf Club & Resort, Saujana Golf and Country Club, Mount Juliet Estate and Maxx Royal Belek Golf Resort – added last year, and already Lighthouse Golf & Spa Resort and Albatross Golf Resort becoming Destinations in 2016.

The network also boasts the only two European Tour Performance Institutes in the world, at Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort***** and Jumeirah Golf Estates. The ETPIs at both venues use the world class knowledge of The European Tour’s medical and performance services team and the latest in swing technology to improve the game of golfers of all abilities.

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Destinations

Courses

LE GOLF NATIONAL FRANCE

LONDON GOLF CLUB UNITED KINGDOM

LINNA GOLF FINLAND

MAXX ROYAL BELEK GOLF RESORT TURKEY

TERRE BLANCHE HOTEL SPA GOLF RESORT ***** FRANCE

QUINTA DO LAGO PORTUGAL

DIAMOND COUNTRY CLUB AUSTRIA

GOLF CLUB ST. LEON-ROT GERMANY

ESTONIAN GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB ESTONIA

PGA CATALUNYA RESORT SPAIN

THE DUTCH THE NETHERLANDS

KUNGSÄNGEN GOLF CLUB SWEDEN

JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

BLACK MOUNTAIN GOLF CLUB & RESORT THAILAND

LIGHTHOUSE GOLF & SPA RESORT BULGARIA SAUJANA GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB MALAYSIA

MOUNT JULIET ESTATE IRELAND ALBATROSS GOLF RESORT CZECH REPUBLIC

Destination Under Development ROSSINGTON HALL UNITED KINGDOM

19

European Tour Destinations

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www.europeantourproperties.com

JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES, DUBAI, UAE

ONE of the Middle East's most exciting all-round golf complexes, Jumeirah Golf Estates boasts two outstanding Greg Norman-designed Championship layouts, the Earth course and the Fire course; a luxury residential golf community; a magnificent state-of-the-art Tuscan-style clubhouse and the first European Tour Performance Institute in the region, with world class training facilities for the elite professional and amateur golfer alike.

David MacLaren, Director of Property and Venue Development, European Tour How did European Tour Properties become such a world class success?

DM: Simply by combining the best of everything. European Tour Courses, created in the 1980s to provide better quality golf courses for The Tour’s players to compete, was partnered at various times by IMG, the Co-Op and Clubcorp. The business was sold to Irish entrepreneur Denis O’Brien, who was seeking playing opportunities at Quinta do Lago, to support real-estate sales at the venue. Tour Courses was reacquired by The Tour in 2008 and relaunched as European Tour Properties.

Our relationship with our world class venues enables us to deliver brand, sales, marketing and operational support. The portfolio is split between Destinations and Courses, comprising the finest courses inherited from the previous business and the incoming world class Destinations: What is the criteria for choosing a European Tour Property?

DM: It’s based on the selection of high quality venues in a particular country that can benefit from the above strategy and which have a connection to The Tour through hosting or aspiring to host tournaments. We have multi-year contracts with our venues and each one is audited annually to ensure that operational and service standards remain at a world class level, with the finest facilities, including in many cases an academy, hotel and

outstanding real-estate. The main criteria is the potential to host a European Tour event – whether main Tour, Senior Tour, Challenge Tour or Qualifying School – plus the ability to benefit from the wide range of support offered by European Tour Properties and the much sought-after status as a world class destination.

How do you measure the success of The Tour’s growing portfolio?

DM: The success is self-evident from the worldwide acclaim received by European Tour Destinations. The business is growing extremely strongly and we have added eight new Destinations over the last 12 months. We will continue to expand the network, carefully choosing new Destinations across all territories where The European Tour is active. We are particularly proud of the two European Tour Performance Institutes (ETPIs) – at Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai, UAE and at Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort ***** in stunning Provence in the south of France. Our strategy is to add ETPIs at European Tour Destinations, although our role is to support and promote the venue, not to directly manage it. The players use the facilities regularly throughout the year and the ETPIs are popular among The Tour players to practice before competing in prestigious tournaments. www.europeantourproperties.com.

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World Class Experiences

European Tour Properties comprsies a collection of Member Venues that all boast the hallmark of tournament quality courses and offer extensive off-course facilities guaranteed to provide a memorable golfing experience for members and visitors alike. Many of them are close to famous cities and all offer a wealth of golf, leisure and accommodation choices.

For those seeking the ultimate golfing lifestyle, a number of our Member Venues offer elegant and secluded real-estate opportunities, and our reciprocal membership scheme offers a “home from home” experience for all club members.

European Tour Destinations hosting 2016 European Tour events Black Mountain GC – True Thailand Classic Presented by Chang Diamond CC – Lyoness Open Le Golf National – 100th Open de France Albatross Golf Resort – D+D REAL Czech Masters The Dutch – KLM Open Jumeirah Golf Estates – DP World Tour Championship PGA Catalunya Resort – European Tour Qualifying School Final

NEXT MONTH: Mount Juliet Estate We will showcase one of the premier parkland courses in Ireland and a former host venue of the WGC-Championships – Mount Juliet Estate in Kilkenny.

Designed by Jack Nicklaus, the lush 7,300 yard, par-72 Championship Course has also hosted the Irish Open and its rolling, tree-lined fairways and undulating greens make for an unforgettable golfing experience.

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www.europeantourproperties.com

Jumeirah Golf Estates Since 2009 the Earth course at Jumeirah Golf Estates has hosted each of The European Tour's season-ending DP World Tour Championships.

Perfect Pairing The first back-to-back winner of the DP World Tour Championship, Henrik Stenson, has become a global Brand Ambassador for Jumeirah Golf Estates.

Real Estate

Developments overlooking both courses at Jumeirah Golf Estates are rated as one of the most sought-after addresses in Dubai.

LOCATED in the vibrant city of Dubai and now indisputably one of the region’s most exciting all-round golf complexes, Jumeirah Golf Estates comprises two Greg Norman-designed Championship layouts in the Earth and Fire courses, a luxury residential golf community, a magnificent state of-the-art clubhouse and the first European Tour Performance Institute in the Middle East, which boasts world class training facilities for the elite professional and amateur golfer alike.

Inspired by the great parkland courses of Europe and North America, the Earth course sets the scene for a memorable golfing experience with rolling fairways, spectacular white bunkering and deep red ochre landscape framed by trees and indigenous shrubs.

The abundance of nature is reflected in the many lakes throughout the course with the final four holes – the “Norman Mile” - playing alongside or over water, culminating in a meandering creek running the full length of the final hole.

The Fire course provides a contrasting golfing experience with an almost Australian outback feel and is framed by trees and wispy fire grass which penalises wayward tee shots.

The Tuscan-inspired and superbly designed homes within this welcoming and secure community – including scenic villas, townhouses and luxury apartments – offer an ideal lifestyle and unique living experience overlooking the spectacular golf courses.

ETPI

In 2013 Jumeirah Golf Estates became the second European Tour Destination to open a European Tour Performance Institute.

Rory McIlroy

receives The Race to Dubai trophy from Keith Pelley, CEO of The European Tour, after winning the 2015 Race to Dubai at the DP World Tour Championship at Jumeirah Golf Estates.

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GEAR GOLF HOUSE THE CUSTOM FITTING SPECIALISTS Y

OU can purchase the most expensive, top of the range clubs on the market but if you don’t get them custom-fitted for your unique swing characteristics and physical make up you won’t be getting the best out of them.

Golf House is the largest retailer of golf brands in the Middle East and they also have three Custom-Fit centres in Dubai where they offer golfers a comprehensive service to enhance their golfing experience. ➤

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GEAR

THE ADDRESS ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB MONTGOMERIE DUBAI Inside the Academy at Arabian Ranches they have the latest golf equipment from top brands for demonstration and a custom fitting session can be arranged for you to enhance your performance with the latest in equipment technology. With the help of V1 Digital video coaching software, KVest 3D analysis measuring and the Mizuno Swing DNA club fitting software, the indoor studio is equipped to offer a complete programme of development for all levels.

Mizuno Swing DNA Club Fitting Software

Mizuno has long been a leader in custom fitting for a good reason. Not only is the Mizuno Performance Fitting System the quickest and most accurate system in the game of golf, but it also offers something that no other fitting system can offer, the revolutionary Shaft Optimiser. In just a few swings, the Shaft Optimiser records five critical data points that make up your unique “Swing DNA” to quickly and easily identify the perfect shaft, shaft flex, iron model, and set make-up that can immediately help you play better.

AL BADIA GOLF CLUB BY INTERCONTINENTAL TRACKMAN COACHING AND E6 SIMULATOR STUDIO TrackMan, the world’s leading ball flight and swing analysis technology is used to aid custom fitting at The Monty’s Academy. The world class facilities there include an indoor studio complete with the E6 TruGolf simulator featuring 86 world class golf courses and TrackMan teaching studio. The TrackMan technology linked with high-speed live feed cameras adds another dimension to the fitting experience.

High-tech training facilities include the region’s only TaylorMade Performance Lab, featuring the MATT (Motion Analysis Technology by TaylorMade) swing analysis and club fitting system.

In addition, there is a Callaway Performance Lab that has a GC2 launch monitor and simulator.

TAYLORMADE PERFORMANCE LAB The TMPL has been a part of the School of Golf since the golf club opened and can provide a variety of coaching options for students of all levels.

Club fitting assessments to Biomechanical analysis, the TaylorMade Performance Lab can improve your game on all levels.

CALLAWAY PERFORMANCE LAB

What is TrackMan? TrackMan measures the full trajectory of any shot, from six-foot pitches to 400-yard drives, pinpointing the landing position with an accuracy of one foot at 100 yards. Delivering state-of-the-art data without using any modeling, TrackMan Pro displays the shots actual 3D trajectory together with impact and ball flight data in real time.

The new fitting centre utilises a GC2 Launch monitor and simulator that can be used for correctly fitting clubs across all major brands including: Callaway, TaylorMade, Srixon, Cleveland and Mizuno. The Performance centre is also used for indoor coaching where students can fine tune their techniques, conduct a club gapping session to ensure all the desired yardages are correct or play around on over 30 courses worldwide to help practice their course management.

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JAW-DROPPING SHAFT RANGE

Having the correct shafts on your clubs is essential. If you have the correct weight and torque of shaft in your hands, it has an impact on how you swing your club and the impact you make on the ball.

Golf House stock all the major brands of shafts to fit professionals, avid golfers and beginners alike.

Brands stocked: Aldila, Mitsubishi, Fujikura, True Temper, KBS, Rifle, UST, Oban and Matrix.

WATCH THIS VIDEO TO FIND OUT WHY SHAFTS ARE IMPORTANT WorldwideGolf

GET A GRIP!

A grip is the only area of a golf club that you touch when playing a shot so it is essential that you find a grip that you like and find comfortable.

Golf House supplies a variety of grips from all the major brands including: Golf Pride, Lamkin, Superstroke and Odyssey.

WATCH THIS VIDEO TO LEARN THE IMPORTANCE OF HAVING THE CORRECT GRIP WorldwideGolf

GET FITTED FOR A BETTER GAME

You can get custom-fitted for any brand on the market at Golf House.

Each and every person has a varied approach and technique to the game so their clubs need to match this.

Getting custom-fitted can make a huge difference to your ball striking. People often don’t realise the importance until they actually get fitted and get the right equipment in their hands.

WATCH THIS VIDEO TO FIND OUT HOW A CUSTOM-FITTING SESSION CAN AFFECT YOUR GAME WorldwideGolf

BIGGEST CHOICE OF BRANDS TO FIT

At Golf House, you are spoilt for choice with the brands they provide such as: Callaway, TaylorMade, Nike, Titleist, Ping, Mizuno, Cobra, Srixon, XXIO and US Kids.

Golf House provides a one-stop shopping experience for all golfing needs, with an exciting merchandise mix of the top brands in golf including golf clubs, golf sets, golf balls, apparel, accessories and much more.

Golf House is proud to have won the best retail experience of the year in the 2015 Middle East Golf Awards.

Visit www.golfhouse.ae for more information on the location of Golf House shops and the products they stock.

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GEAR

THE NEW PERFORMANCE GOLF BALL LINE BY TITLEIST

T

itleist are renowned for producing the No.1 ball in the sport.

Everyone knows all about the Pro V1 and Pro V1 X –they’re the premium ‘go to’ ball for golfers the world over. However, the new Performance line provides some great alternatives for golfers with specific preferences.

The Titleist NXT Tour and NXT Tour S are high performance balls delivering low driver and long iron spin for outstanding distance along with excellent shot stopping control. They feature a large dual core with a soft centre, soft Fusablend cover and spherically tiled 302 octahedral dimple design.

The NXT Tour and NXT Tour S, its softerfeeling companion model, are designed with advanced distance and short-game technologies to help golfers shoot lower scores:

•

•

•

NXT Tour has a larger centre dual core that produces low spin and fast ball speed for even longer driver and iron distance. The new core technology combines with Titleist’s soft, proprietary Fusablend cover for excellent shot stopping control and soft feel.

NXT Tour S provides similar high performance benefits as NXT Tour with a remarkably softer feel. A reformulated softer compression core combines with a softer Fusablend cover to produce the softest-feeling NXT Tour S yet, while maintaining outstanding distance in the long game and commanding scoring performance for precision in the short game.

Comparatively, NXT Tour delivers longer distance with a higher flight, while NXT Tour S provides significantly softer feel.

NXT TOUR

NXT TOUR S

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The new Velocity ball provides even more powerful distance with a more playable feel. It delivers fast initial ball speed on all full swing shots for explosive distance while providing playable feel in the short game. The exclusive LSX core produces high initial ball speed for more power off the tee and shorter approach shots into the green.

The advanced spherically tiled 328 tetrahedral dimple design delivers a more penetrating trajectory with a shallower angle of descent for even more roll. Titleist Velocity golf balls provide power, precision and playable feel.

VELOCITY

The brand new DT TruSoft golf ball is precisely designed and manufactured to provide supremely soft feel on every shot with the exceptionally consistent performance and quality of Titleist. This ball provides the softest compression feel while delivering impressive distance and good short game playability. The Titleist R&D team engineered a new core and cover formulation that delivers very low spin in the long game for impressive distance along with short game playability.

The technology in the DT TruSoft produces a great combination of really soft compression feel and the consistent performance you would expect from Titleist.

DT TrueSoft

RAYHAN THOMAS 016 QATAR OPEN WINNER

STUART TAYLOR

PROSPORTS INTERNATIONAL “With Titleist having the Pro V1 and Pro V1 X, beating their performance characteristics is tough to do. However, the new performance range captures great performance as a alternative to the No.1 ball in golf. There’s been a demand for “soft” feel in the market which has come from research ‘Team Titleist’ has carried out among golfers passionate about the product. Improvements have been made to the features of the current performance balls.

NXT Tour and Tour S help long game distance and improve short game feel. With the Velocity ball we have seen an improvement in feel while keeping its extreme distance. With the new ball DT Trusoft we have a really great soft feel whilst still keeping your distance off the tee.”

“The DT TruSoft is by far the best performance ball that I’ve used. It performs great and really surprised me. I really enjoyed testing all the performance range. Compared to the Pro V1 X which will always be my ball it is a true testament to the quality of the range and I really enjoyed trying and experiencing the other balls.”

PAUL BYRNE

MEMBER AT EMIRATES GOLF CLUB “I normally play with a Pro V1 X so it was slightly unusual getting the chance to try the new performance balls NXT Tour, NXT Tour S, Velocity and DT TruSoft. My Favourite of the balls tried apart from Pro v1 x was the DT Trusoft. It had a quicker flight but still maintained the stopping capabilities with the spin that we require as amateurs.

When you see the price of balls, you think the cheaper price point you lose performance characteristics. However I have been really impressed with the spin aspect of the TruSoft.”

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Night Golf at Emirates Golf Club.

Don’t let your work commitments get in the way of enjoying a round of golf. On the Faldo course at Emirates Golf Club you can enjoy the atmospheric experience of playing golf any night of the week. Tee times on Dubai’s only fully floodlit 18 hole course are available until 9.55pm on weekdays and 7.55pm at weekends.

Play 9 holes for AED 280 per player, AED 230 per EGF member or 18 holes for AED 450 per player, AED 365 per EGF member.

To book your round, call +971 4 417 9800, email ereservations@dubaigolf.com or visit dubaigolf.com

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GEAR

G FAIRWAY WOODS

By SAM TAYLOR, ProSports International

T

o compliment the rest of the G series product PING has introduced a full range of fairway woods to suit players of all abilities. The PING Research & Development team have worked tirelessly to improve many aspects from the No.1 selling G30, and in doing so have come up with a more forgiving and consistent fairway wood. As with the new G series driver this product has already been a hit with many tour players, and was in Louis Oosthuizen’s bag when he won the ISPS Handa Perth International.

A lower leading edge sits closer to the ground which raises the impact position on the face to make getting the ball airborne easier. The properties of the Carpenter 455 steel face allow for a thinner, variable-thickness face, which increases flexing at impact to deliver increased ball speeds and higher launch through improved roll-radius consistency. A new cascading sole design

engages more of the structure at impact, resulting in a large springing effect for faster ball speeds. Like with the driver, a thinner crown means discretionary weight has been used to move the CG lower and further back, making it easier to get the ball airborne and launch it higher.

Also new to the G series is the Stretch 3; a larger headed driving 3-wood with a deeper, less-lofted face for golfers seeking a versatile driver alternative or hotter-faced fairway wood. Featuring all the same technological advancements that can be found in the regular G fairway woods (Carpenter 455 steel face, cascading sole design and a uniquely thin crown), the Stretch 3 provides increased ball speeds and less spin, leading to more distance and accuracy.

The new G range of fairway woods also includes an SF Tec version which utilises a more heel-side centre of gravity in order to provide shot bend correction.

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• •

LOFTS 3W (14.5°), 5W (17.5°) & 7W (20.5°) IN STANDARD HEAD, 3W (16°) & 5W (19°) IN SF TEC HEAD AND 3W (13°) IN STRETCH STOCK GRAPHITE SHAFT: PING ALTA 65 (SR, R, S, X); OPTIONAL SHAFTS: TOUR 65 & TOUR 80 (R, S, X)

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INSTRUCTION

‘PURE STRIKE

MICHAEL JAMIESON Director of Instruction

PUTTING’

O

ne of the most important factors to being a good a putter is to ensure you strike your putts from the centre of the putter face.

Being able to strike your putts from the ‘sweet spot’ will ensure a much better roll allowing for consistent distance control. As for direction, off centred strikes, either from the toe or the heel of the putter will have effect on the direction your putts.

The Address Montgomerie Dubai

Try this simple putting drill to ensure those putts leave the centre of the putter face every time.

Position two tees just wider than the width of your putter head and practice your stroke.

The path through impact will improve allowing for those pure strike putts.

WATCH THE VIDEO AT WorldwideGolf WorldwideGolf

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INSTRUCTION

STEPHEN DEANE Head Professional, Emirates Golf Club

CONSTANTS!

E

VERY GOLFER IS AFTER CONSISTENCY AND THEY ALL TOO OFTEN FALL INTO THE FIND IT, LOSE IT MENTALITY WHEN PLAYING AND PRACTICING. IN THE BELOW ARTICLE I’VE MENTIONED SOME SIMPLE PRINCIPLES THAT WILL HELP YOU DEVELOP CONSTANTS IN YOUR GAME AND PROMOTE THE CONSISTENCY YOU DESERVE.

WATCH THE VIDEO AT WorldwideGolf WorldwideGolf

Register now for the Dubai Golf Junior Programme with The Academy at Emirates Golf Club Worldwide GOLF 56

2. TAKEAWAY:

During the takeaway, you will notice the right wrist hinges further and cocks as the club works up. You will sense the right hand stays on top off the club and visually recognise the butt end of the handle looks past the left pocket at approximately a 45 degree angle relative to the sternum.

1. SETUP:

During the initial setup position I like to the right hand in line with the sternum. This creates a visual constant and gets the sternum, right hand and ball in line during the setup phase (mid irons to wedges). It also creates a slight hinge in the back of the right wrist which will help promote the correct takeaway.

4. DELIVERY:

3. LOADING:

In delivery the hips have naturally opened to approximately 45 degrees and are matching the shaft angle. From here you will notice the club has returned to its initial takeaway position and again the butt end of the club is pointing left. The unloading of the shoulders down and maintenance of the right hand position on top of the handle has allowed us to achieve this successfully.

From the takeaway position it is now important we throw the club up and have the feeling of loading the shoulders. From here, it’s easy to get the shoulders working down before impact, creating a constant delivery position prior to striking the ball.

Work on these simple positions at home without hitting balls and you will certainly start to develop more constants in your game and overall consistency. Enjoy the improvement.

For more information on how to develop your game further please visit Head Professional Stephen Deane at The Dubai Golf Academy in association with Peter Cowen at Emirates Golf Club.

• The perfect way to start your child’s golfing career • Suitable for children from four to 17 years old • Our dedicated Golf Professionals provide a fun environment to learn the game of golf For bookings, please call +971 4 417 9845 or email emiratesacademy@dubaigolf.com www.dubaigolf.com

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INSTRUCTION

‘CARRY BAG DRILL’ REGULATE AND CHECK THE PATH OF YOUR CLUB ON IMPACT I

f you put an alignment stick or a rod down behind your club, it will help you indicate the alignment of your shaft at address.

Most golfers have a tendency to swing too much underneath and then around that shaft line that produces inconsistencies based of how much “loop” you need to return the club head back to the ball.

DANNY JAKUBOWSKI Director of instruction at Abu Dhabi Golf Club

LET ME IN A SIMPLE WAY SHOW YOU: a. What your swing should look like b. A simple drill that you can do on the driving range to help the path of your club

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1

2

3

PERFECT PATH (A) WHAT YOUR SWING SHOULD LOOK LIKE 1. First thing you should notice is as I take the club away, I’m taking it away the same angle as the rod I have put in the ground. Therefore the club is following the path I have started with.

2. When I have hinged my wrists and continued the swing, a good checkpoint is to notice the hands resting on shoulder height and the angle of my club representing the same angle as I started with. If the angle of the club points more towards the ball line that is also fine.

3. As I swing and hit the ball, the angle of my club should follow through to the same angle as the rod again.

WATCH THE VIDEO AT WorldwideGolf WorldwideGolf

A SIMPLE DRILL THAT YOU CAN DO ON THE DRIVING RANGE ✪

✪

✪

Set the angle of your carry bag to the same angle as the shaft at address.

If you rehearse the takeaway, the hinge and then the swish through, you’ll be able to follow that angle with more consistency and ease.

The bag will be a good indicator of whether you’re making the correct angles in your swing or not.

YOU MAY NOT BE ABLE TO MOVE YOUR BODY IN THE SAME WAY AS THE LIKES OF RORY MCILROY AND JORDAN SPIETH CAN, BUT BY USING THIS SIMPLE DRILL YOU’LL BE ABLE TO EFFECTIVELY CONTROL THE PATH OF YOUR GOLF CLUB AND HOPEFULLY REDUCE YOUR SCORES IN THE PROCESS.

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Sponsored by : FAZAL KAZI & HISHAM AL RASHID

ARABIAN GOLF News from the leading clubs in the region

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REZA SAZEGAR HAS SET UP A BUSINESS THAT NOT ONLY PROVIDES A VALUABLE SERVICE TO THE GOLF AND EVENTS INDUSTRY IT ALSO RAISES SIGNIFICANT FUNDS FOR CHARITY.

SIXTEEN10 INSPIRED FUNDRAISING BUSINESS “We are delighted to be partnering with Sixteen10 who have a proven track record of facilitating fundraising auctions at premium gala dinners and corporate events.”

DR. SAWSAN AL MADHI, DIRECTOR GENERAL, FRIENDS OF CANCER PATIENTS.

S

OMETIMES in life triumph is borne out of great tragedy and so it was for Reza Sazegar. The 34 year old Englishman is Managing Director of Sixteen10, a company that was inspired by the sad death of his good friend, Mike Clark, a well-known and popular figure on the local golf scene who worked at Jumeirah Golf Estates before passing away from bowel cancer at just 30 years of age in 2012.

The loss hit Sazegar –and everyone who knew Mike – hard, but it was to serve as the driving force for him in setting up Sixteen10 last October. The company runs auctions at gala dinners, selling ‘money can’t buy’ experiences and unique sporting memorabilia sourced from all over the world. In addition, they offer corporate hospitality packages and items

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for direct sale to individuals, businesses and retail outlets. At the heart of the business is a commitment to give a percentage of every dirham earned to their official charity partner, Friends of Cancer Patients (FoCP), who provide emotional and financial support to people affected by cancer in the UAE. “Every single item that we sell raises money for FoCP,” says Sazegar. “Whether we are selling items at auctions or directly to individuals or businesses, we ensure that a fixed percentage of our margin goes to them.

“In addition to this, any money raised at auctions goes to the charity partner of the event host, and we can help companies obtain the necessary fundraising licenses from the Department of Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities.

ARABIAN GOLF SIXTEEN10

Get involved!

DR. SAWSAN AL MADHI, DIRECTOR GENERAL, FRIENDS OF CANCER PATIENTS, SIGNS AN MOU WITH SIXTEEN10 FOUNDER REZA SAZEGAR TO BECOME THE COMPANY’S OFFICIAL CHARITY PARTNER.

“The great thing about Sixteen10 is that the harder we work and the more success we have, the more money we will raise for charities and foundations. It doesn’t rely on us only making a donation at the end of the year but, the amount raised for charity is directly linked to how hard we work and how much we achieve with Sixteen10.”

As well as running charity auctions at events across the region, Sixteen10’s signed sporting and golf memorabilia can be found in the proshops at Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Yas Links, Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, Al Zorah and Al Hamra Golf Club as well as their own website www.sixteen-10.com.

“The support we’ve received has been phenomenal from individuals as well as businesses in the UAE. This is a testament to the number of people who knew and loved Mike as well as those who believe in Sixteen10 and simply want to help make a difference,” says Sazegar who is holding MIKE CLARK a Sixteen10 Golf Day at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club on November 10 in memory of Mike and to raise money for FoCP. “A few of the companies who we have recently begun working with include; The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, The St. Regis Mauritius and Santiburi Beach, Spa & Golf Resort in Koh Samui, Thailand.

“None of this would be possible without the support of Dr. Sawsan Al Madhi; the Director General of FoCP and Head of Pink Caravan’s Medical and Awareness Committee. She sees and believes in our vision has very kindly accepted me and Sixteen10 as a fundraising partner.”

Dr. Sawsan Al Madhi added: “We are delighted to be partnering with Sixteen10 who have a proven track record of facilitating fundraising auctions at premium gala dinners and corporate events. With the company having such high standards, business ethics and commitment to raising vital funds for charities, we expect that our new relationship with Sixteen10 will bring considerable benefits to Friends of Cancer Patients.”

Mike’s influence is present so strongly at Sixteen10 that even the company name is a memorial to him – October 16th being the date that he sadly passed away.

“I named the company Sixteen10 for two reasons,” says Sazegar. “Firstly, to celebrate the life of a true friend and ensure his memory remains with us and secondly, because the name gives us a constant reminder why we are doing this –the extra drive needed to succeed and remember that failure is not an option.

“Our strapline ‘Rewarding Experiences’ has three meanings.

Firstly, we want to give our customers or winning bidders an unforgettable rewarding experience.

Secondly, by bidding on an item, they are raising vital funds which will be rewarding for the charity and their patients. Finally, helping make a difference to the life of another person is an extremely rewarding experience in itself.

“Mike inspired me to do something to help make a difference for other people and hopefully, I can inspire others to do the same.”

For more information about Sixteen10 please visit: www.sixteen-10.com or email: info@ sixteen-10.com. You can also find them on Twitter and Instagram: sixteen10_me.

“I NAMED THE COMPANY SIXTEEN10 FOR TWO REASONS FIRSTLY, TO CELEBRATE THE LIFE OF A TRUE FRIEND AND ENSURE HIS MEMORY REMAINS WITH US AND SECONDLY, BECAUSE THE NAME GIVES US A CONSTANT REMINDER WHY WE ARE DOING THIS.”

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Sixteen10 is looking to partner with hotels, resorts, airlines, five star restaurants, sport clubs and any other companies or individuals who can sell them amazing auction items.

“The general misconception is that we are asking resorts or other providers to donate items for free,” says Sazegar.

“We do often receive generous donations but we usually pay for our longer term experiences. However, in order to maximise the money we raise for charity we need either heavily discounted items with added extras or unique ‘money can’t buy’ items.

“We are also looking take on new events in the Middle East, Europe and Asia markets and would ask corporates, charities or event organisers to contact us to discuss our auction services in more detail.”

SIXTEEN10 GOLF DAY DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB, NOV 10th “We’re organising the Sixteen10 Golf Day in memory of Mike Clark to raise money for FOCP at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club with an evening Gala Dinner and auction,” says Sazegar. “We’re hoping to make this an annual event to continue the good work of the Mike Clark Golf Day which has been running for the past three years.

“We’re working to secure a few sporting legends to participate in the event, are looking for businesses to enter teams and also sponsor the event and resorts or experience providers to offer exclusive items for our evening auction.”

WIN:

THE HOLIDAY OF A LIFETIME COURTESY OF SIXTEEN10

SIXTEEN10 is giving Worldwide Golf readers the chance to win one of its amazing golf holiday experiences by answering the following question: Where will the 2016 Open Championship be held?

To enter visit: www.worldwide.golf/competitions SIX DAYS / FIVE NIGHTS FOR 2 PEOPLE AT THE 5* SANTIBURI BEACH, SPA & GOLF RESORT, KOH SAMUI, THAILAND Stretched out along the golden sands of Samui’s Mae Nam beach, Santiburi inhabits one of the most breathtaking places on Earth. Where idyllic Thai coastline meets 23 acres of tropical gardens, this 5* resort enjoys absolute privacy and tranquility. A member of Leading Hotels of the World, Santiburi offers an authentic blend of contemporary Thai design and warm local hospitality. Their luxurious suites and villas are all freshly renovated, offering superlative comfort and modernity with an unmistakably Thai touch.

Santiburi Samui Country Club’s 18-hole championship golf course has been an essential stop on the PGA Asian Tour for many years. These undulating fairways offer mountain breezes and spectacular ocean views. www.santiburisamui.com Terms and conditions: Valid from 1st April 2016 for 12 months. Internet rate will be applied for extension nights. Rooms are subject to advance reservations and space availability upon booking. Golf Rounds do not include golf club hire.

THE PRIZE INCLUDES: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

6 days / 5 nights stay for 2 people at the Santiburi Beach Resort & Spa, Koh Samui, Thailand Accommodation in a Deluxe Beachfront Villa including all taxes Half-board basis; delicious daily breakfast and dinner 1 round of golf per person at the Santiburi Country Club (a Top Ten Asian Golf Course including golf cart hire) Free use of non-motorised watersports facilities VIP Transfers to and from the airport Free Kid’s Club

THE VILLA CAN ACCOMMODATE 2 ADULTS AND A MAXIMUM OF 2 CHILDREN WITH A SURCHARGE AS BELOW:

• • • •

Children Policy; (age at time of travel) Age 0-2.99 years are complimentary included bedding & breakfast and dinner Age 3-5.99 year are chargeable at THB 600.- net per child per night included bedding & breakfast or THB 1,600 for half-board Age 6-14.99 year are chargeable at THB 1,250 - net per child per night included bedding and breakfast or THB 2,900 for half-board

Worldwide GOLF 64

talking shop Worldwide Golf catches up with Golf House’s General Manager, Scott Sullivan, to discuss the challenges of golf retail in the UAE. How is Golf House working with local clubs to provide a more enhanced service for their members and visiting golfers?

Scott Sullivan: Golf House is the largest retailer of golf brands in the Middle East. So when we look at operating a Pro-shop on behalf of a Golf Club our main focus is to provide a service and experience that the golf club can be proud of. Golf retail is tough, which is why we take the retail operation out of the club managements’ hands to enable them to focus on their customer service in other areas.

With our three Custom Fit centres, and being able to fit customers into eight brands, we offer golfers a comprehensive opportunity to enhance their golfing experience.

We offer a TRADE-in-TRADE-up service where golfers can trade in their old clubs for a discount through our Golf House stores. We are also offering discounts to Emirates Airline Skywards and HSBC card holders which further enhances our interaction with the golfing community.

The big brands are releasing new models more than ever before, but what does this mean to the customer?

Scott Sullivan: There are areas where it’s good to launch product frequently but others where it’s unnecessary. Golfers may change drivers regularly but not their irons. From a retail perspective, launching new product definitely helps. The problem comes when brands don’t help retailers with their launches. When retailers have to take large amounts of stock, with, say a three-month window to sell fully priced product, it’s detrimental to the retail industry because product has to be sold at ridiculously low prices. It may be good for the golfer but if retailers can’t sustain their business golfers will no longer have a proper retail experience. We all like new toys – iPhones, cars, laptops – and there is always plenty of new product.

The golf industry is no different but there needs to be a happy medium regarding the amount of product launched. Most golfers love new product, which should be good for everyone!

Do the top players influence sales? Rory winning with the latest Vapor or Mickelson’s wedges?

Scott Sullivan: Most certainly yes! Tiger Woods, for example, moves the needle across the whole golfing industry from TV viewer ratings all the way to retail. He got people excited about the sport.

Tiger being off the scene has been bad for business, but there is a new dawn of exciting new players who may be able to influence golfers like Tiger did.

Golfers love to see what the Pros play on Tour or like to wear the Ricky or Rory outfits. It’s a fact that brands that don’t have a Tour presence struggle to sell.

Are there are too many brands to chose from in the UAE? Scott Sullivan: Nope. Golfers love choice and love to tinker. Not all the major brands are represented in the UAE so with a market this small it will take some time to have all the brands here. As a retailer we try to decide which brands to stock at different locations, according to price, product or brand.

Understanding consumers’ buying habits is not easy.

How is Golf House’s new website looking to engage with the local golfing community?

Scott Sullivan: Our website has been operational for six months. We are still in the early days, trying to understand what we need to do for the consumer.

We have started by offering consumers certain deals of the week or month, our location details, video content through Worldwide Golf and we have live social media feeds from our Instagram and Facebook accounts. I’m still striving to understand how it all works but have had a good response so far. We are working more closely with the brands on how we can interact with our customers and offer them the best for their golfing needs.

Do you have a loyalty card service in place?

Scott Sullivan: We don’t have a loyalty card but we have started an initiative with Emirates Airline Skywards and HSBC card holders where they will be able to receive a discount through our Golf House stores. This is a great opportunity for us to be able

Up to

15%

For Emirates Airline Skywards card holders at Golf House Go to www.golfhouse.ae for more details

ARABIAN GOLF 65

to work with key brands and offer their members something in return. This may be our first step towards a loyalty card programme – so watch this space!

Which have been the best sellers for the early part of the year and what’s new?

Scott Sullivan: Callaway is doing great business! It’s now the largest hardware brand in the world again and the brand has done an exceptional job under their CEO, Chip Brewer. It’s all about the product.

It has to be better than the last model and must perform. Consumers very quickly realise when they buy a new product if it doesn’t match the hype! The XR 16 has been a big seller for us. Cutter & Buck is still our biggest apparel brand with Callaway and Puma hot on its heels.

Imported clubs direct from the USA often work out cheaper, but can this be a false economy?

Scott Sullivan: Sometimes it’s cheaper, sometimes it’s not. Shipping costs are not that low. The UAE is predominantly an expat golfing community and golfers have friends and relatives flying in and out or they themselves might travel a lot and pick up clubs from overseas. The falling currencies globally hasn’t helped us with the high operational costs. There are brands we stock that are cheaper than in the USA – so some you win, some you lose. What we can focus on is our custom-fitting service, the customer being able to buy straight away and put in play – and also being able to offer warranties if required when the product is bought locally.

ARABIAN GOLF LOCAL NEWS

UAE THE PERFECT SHOWCASE FOR TROON’S PORTFOLIO Ian Bulleid, Director International Sales & Marketing Troon Golf Europe, Middle East & Africa Al Zorah Golf Club, Ajman, is the first Championship golf course to open in the UAE in six years. There are others nearing completion.

How important was it to get AZ open first?

Ian Bulleid: Al Zorah is part of a rich offering of golf in the UAE and its arrival only serves to strengthen this. It complements the other courses in the region, providing something different and adding to the attractiveness in the broader tourism landscape.

How confident are you that Al Zorah can compete for a strong market share?

Ian Bulleid: I believe Al Zorah Golf Club will have a strong share of the market. Its proximity to Dubai International Airport and easy location, along with pristine conditioning that matches the standards seen at all Troon facilities in the region, will ensure a constant flow of clients. The course itself has received critical acclaim already, including a nomination as Development of the Year by Golf Inc. and a high rating within Nicklaus Design’s own ranks. The natural setting, the wildlife and the one million square metres of mangroves make it unique in the Emirates. The tidal system amongst the mangroves is undoubtedly a huge pull, with the look and play of the course changing as the water ebbs and flows. We’re delighted with the response we’ve had so far, and all credit has to go to the commitment of the Al Zorah team and every stakeholder. The support shown by the Ajman Tourism Development Department and the foresight of the developers, Solidere International, has helped make it a huge success. The headlines Al Zorah has made are just rewards for the efforts of all concerned, not just Troon, but all the team at Nicklaus design. And this teamwork doesn’t just mean good news for Al Zorah Golf Club, but for the profile of golf in Ajman and all of the UAE. Al Zorah Golf Club is at the heart of

the Al Zorah project, but what else can we expect from the overall development and how do you see the split in golf members and visitors?

Ian Bulleid: Currently under construction are four state-ofthe-art marinas, two further world class 5-star hotel resorts to join the already partnered hotels and several golf living areas, which will include stunning villas and town houses. The real estate is very important to Al Zorah but it’s an holistic product in which the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Property will be a key link in the chain but it won’t dominate the experience. Solidere International are committed to retaining the views and natural elements that make it so unique.

We expect the mix of clients and their usage patterns to change as Al Zorah evolves and matures.

In the short term local pay and play and international visitors will play the biggest role, but this will change as the real estate development brings more residents who will form the backbone of the membership. In addition, marketing programmes such as Troon Rewards and the Troon Executive Card will ensure that Al Zorah maintains its appeal throughout the region. Floodlighting one of the nines for Night Golf is one of the enhancements we are reviewing.

Al Zorah is scheduled to host a MENA Tour event this month. Are there plans to bring a European Tour event to AZ in the future?

Ian Bulleid: It’s always a good thing to see a course tested by professionals, who provide the ultimate measure of its challenge and its quality. It was certainly pleasing to hear that Darren Clarke was impressed when he played the course. Al Zorah Golf Club is perfectly capable of hosting events from all the professional golf tours, and as part of our on-going strategy we would look at any hosting opportunities on a case-bycase basis.

Troon Golf manage seven golf clubs in the UAE. How important is it to have such a diverse range of course designers and why is the Middle East so interesting to Troon?

Ian Bulleid: The UAE portfolio is an ideal opportunity to showcase our ability to manage different styles of courses. We’re fortunate to work with many of the finest golf course architects around the world, and seeing designs from established names such as Nicklaus and Player alongside modern legends like Els and Montgomerie is very gratifying. Our job is to ensure that the condition of the golf course and the service that all golfers receive does justice to the quality of the design. We first became involved in the Middle East via The Address Montgomerie Dubai in

2001, and we’ve seen the portfolio in the region go from strength to strength. The continued support of developers and owners has been crucial to our success. Having started out in the Arizona desert in Scottsdale, Troon has a special relationship with desert golf and that’s been shown repeatedly in our work in the Middle East.

Do you think that The European Tour’s presence in Dubai and the Middle East highlights the region as an attractive golf tourism destination?

Ian Bulleid: Absolutely. The tournaments enhance the profile of the region as a golf destination as well as individual host facilities such as Abu Dhabi Golf Club. Troon is delighted with that endorsement and the benefits it brings.

TROON’S FIRST FORAY INTO THE UAE CAME WITH THE SPECTACULAR MONTGOMERIE, DUBAI IN 2001.

THE STUNNING AL ZORAH GOLF CLUB IN AJMAN, OPENED IN DECEMBER 2015, TAKES TROON’S UAE PORTFOLIO UP TO SEVEN COURSES.

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2016 Xerox Corporate Golf Challenge gets underway at Al Zorah

T

he first qualifying round of the 18th Xerox Corporate Golf Challenge, held at the Al Zorah Golf Club in Ajman, produced the first teams to qualify for the Grand Finals which will be contested later this year.

Baba Subramanium and Paul Joseph scored an impressive 40 Stableford points to be declared the winners, followed by Chris Elms and Brett Beech in second place with 37 points.

Three teams scored 36 points each, and after a countback third place went to Neil Hamp-Adams and Julek Szczawinski; fourth place to Shabir Yakoub and John Spicer; and in fifth came David Minchin and Simon Earl. deVere Acuma’s Nearest the Pin on hole 6 was won by Hisham Shammas, and Chrysler’s hole 15 Nearest the Pin by Ron Murphy.

A new on-course competition - ‘King of Pars’ sponsored by deVere Acuma has been introduced for the 2016 Challenge. The competition recognises and rewards teams that perform best on Par 3s, Par 4s and Par 5s. The teams that score the best on the various hole types win a prize as well as entry to the ‘Golden Ticket’ draw, which will see the lucky entrant win a place in the 2016 Grand Final.

Winners of the first qualifier’s King of Pars were: King of the Par 3s: Paul Abouchacra and Hisham Shammas; King of the Par 4s: Sunny Ramdas and Roy Holmes; King of the Par 5s: Thomas Wiberg and Rune Rasmussen Partners of the tournament this year include Ajman Tourism (Host City – Grand Final), deVereAcuma, Chrysler, and Callaway Golf Visit www.xeroxcgc.comfor more information.

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ARABIAN GOLF LOCAL NEWS E M IRATES GOLF FED ERATION

S H A R JA H G O LF & S H O O T I N G C L U B ANDERSEN AND SARKAR LAND BMW GLOR THE new partnership of Frederick Andersen and Jaydeep Sarkar claimed glory in the March edition of the BMW Members and Guest Social with an excellent score of 62.8 net.

The duo made a slow start on the front nine texas scramble format with a 33.8 net but the back nine Betterball saw the pair shoot 7-under net 29. Their total was enough to take the overall title ahead of

the afternoon’s winners Purna Sharma and Namir Al Naimi, who carded a net 66.9.

RORY THOMSON ROARS HOME IN UNITECHNIK KHALID YOUSUF LEADS THE WAY AS UAE NATIONAL SENIOR TEAM TAKE BRONZE AT THE GCC GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP MEMBERS of the UAE National Teams left the recent GCC Championship at Doha Golf Club in Qatar clutching a string of bronze medals, well deserved reward for their excellent displays.

The Senior Team finished third in the overall competition while team member Khalid Yousuf finished third in the individual category, earning him two bronze medals for his outstanding efforts.

After a first round score of 78, Yousuf started to find his form. His next two rounds of 75-76 put him back on track and his final round of 72, put him in the mix with the leaders.

With a championship total of 301, Yousuf was awarded third place outright on a countback .

Yousuf spearheaded the team’s effort for the week and was ably supported by Ahmed Skaik and Rashid Hamood. Skaik posted an excellent total of 304 – only three shots more than Yousuf – to finish seventh in the individual category while

Hamood shot a four round tally of 336. The UAE team’s total of 917 was good enough for third place behind Bahrain on 910 and the winners Qatar on 889.

“I am proud of myself but most importantly of my team,” said Yousuf.

“We were able to focus under pressure in order to hold our rounds together and finish with good scores. Now I’m looking forward as we need to start preparing for the Eisenhower Trophy in Mexico in September. It would be a great accomplishment for the UAE and the EGF to have a strong showing at that event.”

The UAE Youth Team finished fifth in the U-18 category in Qatar with a score of 517.

The home nation took the top spot on 484 with Kuwait in second place and Bahrain third.

Leading the way for the UAE Youth Team was Mahmood Skaik with rounds of 82-9086 for a 258 tally with Mohamed Al Hajeri one stroke more and Rashid Al Emadi compiling a tally of 300.

FAISAL SAYEGH TAKES NATIONAL MEDAL AT JEBEL ALI FAISAL Al Sayegh clinched last month’s National Medal at Jebel Ali with a final Stableford haul of 44 points for a one-point win over Jamal Bin Marghoub with Rashid Al Suwaidi third on 38 points. The gross prize on the day went to National Team member Khalid Yousuf after he fired a 6-over 78.Coming out on

top in Division ‘A’ (hcp 0 – 14) was Mohammed Darwish with 32 Stableford points while a haul of 36 points helped Bader Abdulnoor Ahli to the top spot in Division ‘B’ (14-24 hcp).

Khalid Al Mutawa won the Junior Division on 43 points, one clear of Saeed Al Balooshi with Obaid Al Heloo third on 32 points.

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RORY Thomson claimed last month’s Unitechnik Stableford with a superb haul of 43 points for a narrow victory while J.S. Park clinched the top spot in Division ‘A’ with 37 points. The honours in Division ‘B’ went to Prodipto Ghosh with a one stroke win after accumulating 42 points while the best gross on the day came from Adam Smith as he carded 34 points with birdies on both par-5s to hold off Barry Cotter on a countback.

JU M E I R A H G O LF E S TAT E S GAVIN SUTHERLAND JOINS ETPI DUBAI IN THE ROLL OF SENIOR GOLF INSTRUCTOR WITH more than ten years experience in coaching, Gavin Sutherland brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the team at the European Tour Performance Institute at Jumeirah Golf Estates as Senior Golf Instructor.

A qualified Golf BioDynamics specialist after working with Dr. Robert Neal at the prestigious Jim Mclean Golf School at Doral Golf Resort and Spa in Miami, Florida, Sutherland has learned from America’s leading coaches and has taught many top players and teams including Jim Mclean, Martin Hall, Brian Manzella, Keegan Bradley, Alexis Thompson and Greg Norman.

He has most recently been the Senior Golf Professional at Al Badia Golf Club. His coaching experiences also include working in Singapore and Australia.

“I’m excited to be joining the ETPI team here at Jumeirah Golf Estates,” said Sutherland. “The quality

of the facility is unrivalled anywhere in the world. I’m looking forward to being able to contribute my expertise to golfers of all abilities in order for them to achieve their goals as well as assist ETPI in becoming one of the world’s leading coaching venues.”

Mark Gregson-Walters, Director of Instruction, ETPI, said: “I’m delighted to have Gavin at ETPI as part of our team. His experience, not just as a coach but with Bio Mechanics at Jim McLean’s Golf School, compliments what we already offer at ETPI in furthering the dimensions of coaching we can provide to all levels of golfers.”

SUMMER MEMBERSHIP AT ARABIAN RANCHES GOLF CLUB Summer membership at the Arabian Ranches Golf Club is more than just golf!

It is designed to encourage lifelong memories and experiences for avid golfers who are after a real social golf club atmosphere.

Make the most of our summer membership and receive unlimited rounds of golf, a complimentary shared cart, free driving range access, special dining discounts, discounted golf lesson packages, a unique welcome gift and lots more.

Subscription Fees: Single: AED 4,995 | Family (Couple): AED 7,495 | Junior: AED 1,745 Sign up before 10th May 2016 and receive two additional weeks to your membership term.

Membership is valid from 1st June until 30th September 2016.

For more information, please call +971 4 366 4700 or email membership@arabianranchesgolf.ae For the best green fee rates book online on www.arabianranches.ezlinks.com

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ARABIAN GOLF LOCAL NEWS

CONARES GOLF SOCIETY LEAGUE TENSE PLAY-OFFS SEPARATE THE BEST FROM THE REST THE first Play-offs to decide who goes forward to the knockout stages were a tense affair but the cream rose to the top under the added pressure to ensure some exciting fixtures in the quarter-finals.

The first two groups through to the quarter-finals were the South African G.S (SAGS) on 32 points and Dubai Exputts 1 on 30 points in the Conares League.

SAGS took 14 points out of their possible 16 points while Dubai Exputts 1 took 12 points. This meant it was the end of the road for the Happy

Hookers and G.O.D.S who both made valiant efforts to progress in what was their first year in the league.

The BMW League saw Vikings and Lamprell progress to the finals with outstanding play-off results.

Vikings began the process with a seven-point lead over the other groups and they enhanced their position by adding a further 12 points, while Lamprell stormed past GTI with 11 points to take the other available quarter-finals spot. Asean and

vs

vs Lamprell

South African Golf Society

Gulf Rock claimed their place in the next round from the SNTTA League with nine points each in the play-offs to force Kingspan and Dubai Exputts 2 to miss out by one point.

The final duo to take their places in the quarterfinals were Sports2Business and Indian Expats, both of whom were in superb form over the playoff’s claiming 11 points each out of a possible 16.

Naboodah and Woestyn Boere Hackers will have to wait for next year as they fell just short on the day.

Indian Expats

Asean

QUARTER-FINALS DRAW

vs Dubai Exputts 1

vs Vikings

Gulf Rock

Sports2Business

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S H ARJ AH GOLF & SHO O TING C LUB

ALHEMOUD WINS THE LADIES OPEN

YAZDI ENDS HIS DROUGHT

JULIA Alhemoud clinched this year’s Dufry Ladies Open after shooting a course-record-equalling 3-under gross 69 to win by two strokes from defending champion Anastasia Bakal.

Alhemoud was the hot favourite heading into the event and she didn’t disappoint. Three birdies in succession on holes 3, 4 and 5 set the tone for the day and she remained at the top of the leaderboard to be the last lady standing.

Finishing in third place was Alison Muirhead with a 5-over 77 with Aashka Desai in fourth, one shot further back.

A 3-under net 69 saw Amalia Arredondo clinch the top spot in Division ‘A’ by one stroke from Sakura Kawakami while in Division ‘B’ Melanie Thomas topped the pile with a 67, ahead of Jully Kang, on a countback.

LONG-serving member Hazzin Yazdi ended a 12-month wait for a win with victory in the sixth Orient Travel – Malaysia Truly Asia Medal with a net 75.

The win moves him up to 10th in the net Order of Merit and 11th in the gross rankings.

Yazdi won the morning heat ahead of Vinod Arya while the victor in the afternoon was Praveen Sharma, who battled the windy conditions to card an 81 and win by one shot from Roy Holmes.

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SAADIYAT BEACH GOLF CLUB

MAN GOLF Group coaching with a difference at Saadiyat Beach Golf Academy

T

he evolution of the golfing man has been rapid and Saadiyat Beach Golf Club has the perfect fixture to entice the modern man out of his cave at night. Man Golf offers groups a combination of tuition, practice and socialising. The series comprises eight weekly lessons, unlimited practice throughout the eight weeks, and a well earned beverage to finish off an insightful evening at The Golf Academy.

Teaching Professional, Paul Hubner, expects the programme to grow in the forthcoming term, saying: “It really has caught the attention of guys out there who want a bit of enjoyment after a hard day in the office. We offer world class practice facilities and expert tuition, and when you throw in a lemonade or something a little stronger on us, it’s a great way to break up the week.”

Paul’s tip:

Keeping in mind the caveman theme, a common problem I see all the time is,“man need to hit far!” When using the driver it is easy for smooth rhythm and technique to go out the window in the quest for more distance. By PAUL HUBNER focusing on good angles and a square clubface, the distance we all crave can come more easily. Try dropping the right shoulder lower than the left at address, and create a good sequence during the downswing by starting with the lower body first, this will encourage a more shallow or even an upward blow to the ball, maximising distance with less effort.

MARK YOUR DIARY

APR 1

Infiniti Members Monthly Medal

15th Century

1744

The origin of the modern game is usually traced to Scotland in the 15th century.

The first Rules of Golf are set out by the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers.

1860 1901 The first Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) is formed in the UK.

1921 The Ryder Cup is played for the first time between the men’s professionals of Great Britain and the USA at Gleneagles. It is won by Great Britain.

1934

1977

The inaugural Masters is staged at Augusta National. It is won

by Horton Smith of the USA.

The first Open Championship is played at Prestwick and is won by Willie Park Senior of Scotland.

1997

Metal woods made of stainless steel are introduced.

Tiger wins the Masters.

1975 Tiger woods is born.

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Ladies

APR 11

Programme GOLF 72 ARABIAN

Future Falcons Abu Dhabi

APR 12

Man Golf Programme

SaadiyatBeachGolfClub

SaadiyatBeachGolfClub

SaadiyatBeach

www.sbgolfclub.ae

: +971 (0) 2 557 8000

info@sbgolfclub.ae

Ladies Programme is thriving T here is a thriving programme for female golfers of all levels at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, from Starter to Improver and the Club Team Training Sessions. One of the most important benefits of learning in a group is the experience they share with each other.

Not only is it reassuring to see that everyone finds the game just as tough as you, it is also useful to learn from others and share ideas.

As well as the usual instruction which is normally conducted by two instructors per class, students spend as much time out on course as possible.

Jaco Stander says: “We work hard to ensure that our groups are out on the course practicing and learning as much as possible so that there isn’t as much fear factor playing on the course in a normal game.”

Jaco’s Tip:

A lot of ladies comment that they just want to be consistent. Here is a great tip to achieve better ball striking. Try to work mostly on achieving a great impact position by focusing on a full transfer of body weight on to the leading leg with the maximum rotation of the lower body, while at the same time keeping the left arm fully extended through impact.

Throughout this movement it is very important to ensure that posture is being maintained, keeping their head and chest looking at the ball. Do all of this to achieve the repetition you are after.

JACO STANDER

Future Falcons Flying High J

unior golf is growing rapidly at Saadiyat Beach Golf Academy with participants exceeding 130 via The Future Falcons Programme and an increasingly strong relationship with Cranleigh School for extracurricular activity.

Juniors aged between 4-16 are coached by Saadiyat Beach Golf Club’s four teaching professionals across a variety of aspects including physical conditioning, swing building, short game skills, and, most importantly, they are exposed to friendly competitions at all levels.

Teaching Professional P.J. Van Merch runs a fantastic initiative which gives progressing juniors just such a chance to compete for real.

The Abu Dhabi Schools and Club League comprises six events around courses in Abu Dhabi.

Forty children get to tee it up for nine holes of golf followed by a buffet and prize presentation.

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Midweek 18 holes, Open Stableford & Medal format

NEW PRO LADIES EVENT PJ’s Tip:

Jack Nicklaus once said: “teach kids to hit it far first and straighten them out later”. We agree that by building power early on you are creating a great platform for the future in the modern game. We use the following three drills to increase distance: 1. Use a small medicine ball or a sandbag to throw far in the style of a golf swing, the weight will help juniors to figure out which muscles to use!

2. Using a baseball bat to hit a tennis ball works well to get the body moving quickly.

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PJ VAN MERCH

3. Stand back from the ball and take a couple of steps into it before impact, it trains hand-eye coordination as well as more awareness of how the feet use the ground to generate force.

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Midweek 9 holes, open Stableford Competition ARABIAN GOLF 73

Members Stableford Competition

Some of the world’s best women professional golfers will be welcomed to Saadiyat Beach Golf Club in November to compete in the newly announced Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Open (FBMLO).

The event will take place from Wednesday 2 to Saturday 5 November and is the first time the Ladies European Tour (LET) has visited Abu Dhabi. The tournament, with a prize fund of AED 2,021,250 (US$550,000), will be organised by the FBMA and supported by ADSC. It will take up a key position in the LET schedule as one of its seasonending events.

APR 29

Cinco de Mayo comes early Mexican Scramble Golf Tournament

ARABIAN GOLF LOCAL NEWS ▶

E MIRATES GOLF CL UB BAXTER AND MURIHEAD CROWNED JUNIOR CHAMPIONS MATTHEW Baxter shot an impressive gross 73 over the Majlis to win the boys’ Junior Club Championship with Alison Muirhead winning the girls’’ title with a gross 74.

Mark Baxter won the net boys title with a 74 while a fabulous net 69 saw Tatyana Mogire seal the girls’ net prize. As a result, both Mark and Tatyanna received an Elite Junior lesson package with head professional Stephen Deane.

CALEY CROWNED 2016 LADIES CHAMPION

CLERC WINS THE CAMEL TROPHY MEG Clerc won on a three-way countback to emerge victorious at this year’s Camel Trophy with a haul of 40 Stableford points. The Silver Division (hcp 0-18) was won by Veronica Elias on 38 points, two clear of Fiona Berry while the Bronze Division (hcp 19-36) saw Caroline Granger win on a countback from Christiane Sprunck after both players tied on 40 points each.

VIV Caley followed an opening 86 over the Faldo with an 82 on the Majlis to become the 2016 Ladies Club Champion with a one-stroke win over Carolyn Thompson.

Caley trailed by two after the opening round but by playing her own game and focusing only on her ball she overcame the deficit to clinch the title. Defending champion Jayshree Gupta finished in third place after losing out on a countback to Thompson.

In the Silver Division Christiane Sprunck took the spoils with rounds of 74 and 66 while in the Bronze Division Meg Clerc was at her consistent best with rounds of 73 and 70.

AMARNANI TAKES THE CUP NELLY Amarnani won this year’s Chairman’s Cup with a card countback win over Anil Shivana. Both players finished with the same tally of 40 points but it was Amarnani’s better back nine haul of 20 points which saw him win the title.

Taking third place was Bhupesh Sharma while in Division ‘A’ (hcp 0-12) Marcus Wallman scored 39 points to win by one from Tony Azoulay. The winner in Division ‘B’ (hcp 1324) was Anand Lakhiani, who successfully defended his title with a 38, two points clear of David Moody.

INDIAN TEAMS DOMINATE KOHLMAN NATIONS CUP THE sizzling quartet of Kush Sama, Jugwinder Brar, Naresh Handa and Vikram Arora, representing ‘India-14’, clicked into gear to win the annual Kohlman Nations Cup in late February. The team carded an impressive 92 points to edge their closest rivals, ‘India-9’, by one point with the USA team settling for third, a further point adrift in overcast conditions.

Gaurav Verma, Surjit Namli, Anil Shivanna and Nitin Kripalani comprised the ‘India-9’ team

ELISE HANSON IN COMMAND ELISE Hanson scored an excellent net 64 to win last month’s Medal, which was sponsored by Sofitel, Dubai Jumeirah Beach. Ten gross pars propelled her to victory and even a triple bogey on the 5th couldn’t derail her as she won the Silver Division ‘B’ (hcp 15-23), in addition to the main title.

In the Silver Division ‘A’ (hcp 0-14) the winner was former captain Mitsuko Emmerson with a net score of 2-under 70, two clear of Jayshree Gupta. The best gross score of the day came from Veronique Rosset with an 80.

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A LM OUJ GOLF

DAUD CLINCHES THE MUSCAT LADIES OPEN JAMEELA Daud won the first ever two-round Muscat Ladies Open with a 36-hole Stableford score of 76 and a threepoint win over Yvonne Welling. The Muscat Ladies Open had previously been held at Ghala Golf Club, but this year’s edition was extended to two days of play to include a round at Almouj Golf, offering female golfers more challenges at two of Oman’s biggest clubs.

The tournament’s gross winner was Lynn Casey as she returned a 148 total to finish well clear of Sanjoli Singh, while in the 9-hole competition over the Academy course the team of Delaney Leigh, Fiona Burke and Jumana Ibrahim prevailed with Leigh taking the individual spoils with a haul of 28 points.

ARABIAN GOLF 74

while David Formas, Charlie Stricklin, Kenny Babcock and Richard Pompa featured in the USA team.

One of the most popular events on the domestic circuit, the Kohlman Nations Cup once again attracted a huge turnout which saw 132 players, representing numerous different countries, take to the Majlis course in teams of four with the two best scores counting towards the team total on each hole.

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D U BAI CREEK G O LF CL UB

BAKAL CLINCHES HER THIRD LADIES AMATEUR OPEN

SAHANA DEFENDS HER CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP CROWN SAHANA Paravantavida confidently wrapped up the successful defence of the Club Championship last month with a seven-stroke victory over Kristi Sealey.

Paravantavida opened up with a 77 to move nine clear of the chasing pack and, although Sealey applied some pressure during the final day, a few late pars on holes 15, 16 and 17 steadied the nerves and a bogey on the last sealed the win for Paravantavida.

Harini White was awarded the Net prize after an excellent two-day total of 142, four clear of Vijaya Brahmachary.

McGINLEY CROWNED CLUB CHAMPION MICHAEL McGinley fired a second-round 72 to come from behind and win the J.Lindeberg Men’s Club Championship for 2016 by one stroke from four-time champion Miki Mirza with defending champion Rayhan Thomas in third, a further stroke adrift.

Shezad Lakdawala opened up with a superb round of 1-under 70 to hold a three stroke lead over McGinley heading into the second and final round but stuttered and fell out of contention. In the Net prizes Ishwah Jodha took the spoils with a 137 total, four clear of Lakdawala.

ANASTACIA Bakal came from behind to win the Ping Ladies Amateur Open for the third time with a four-stroke win over Alison Muirhead. Bakal posted a stunning back nine of 1-under 35, which included an ace on the 14th and a birdie on the 15th, to overtake Muirhead and take the title with a 72.

Kayleigh Korneski topped the pile in the Silver Division with a superb net 65, six shots clear of Sakura Kawakami while Beatrice Galeppini clinched a four-stroke win over Teresa Gow in the Bronze Division.

MARK BISHOP IN COMMAND

GADSBY AND MAYCOCK TAKE THE DULSCO SPOILS Roy Gadsby (above left) recorded the best score of the day in the individual (Division ‘A’) Stableford format to clinch the 13th edition of Dulsco Classic, one of the oldest corporate Golf tournaments in the UAE. Paul Maycock took home the honours in the Division ‘B’ category while in the team category, Howard Hurrion, Roy Gadsby and Patrick McCarthy were crowned as champions after reaching a total of 92 points.

MIRZA CLINCHES BACK TO BLACK MEN’S OPEN FOUR-time Club Champion Miki Mirza added another title to his growing collection with victory in this year’s Back to Black Men’s Open. Mirza signed for 4-over 75 to win by one from Aryan Chordia and Max Burrow with Chordia claiming second place outright on a countback thanks to a stronger finish.

Matthias Trinler clinched the net prize with a superb 3-under 68 to win by three from Abdul Aziz Al Hakim with Mark McCarthy third after losing out to Al Hakim on a countback.

MARK Bishop romped to a three-stroke win with an excellent score of 6-under 65 in last month’s OMA Emirates Medal.

John Fellingham was the victor in Division ‘A’ with a 69, two clear of Ishwar Jodha, while in Division ‘B’ a score of 69 was also good enough for a twostroke win for Praveen Kalia over Joseph Ghossoub.

Max Burrow sealed the day’s gross prize with an excellent 4-under 67 while in the Seniors Division Barry Henderson came out on top with a 74 and Beatrice Galeppini won the Ladies Division.

Meanwhile, Club Captain Patrick Morrow has introduced a new prize for the last placed player in the monthly medals. This month’s winner was Navneet Chopra, who has kindly been given a complimentary lesson from one of the club’s PGA Professionals, Luke Tidmarsh.

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T H E ADDRESS MONTGOMERIE D UBAI

CHARLIE SIMPSON GOES LOW TO CLINCH THE MEDAL CHARLIE Simpson shot a gross 76 to seal last month’s Ecco Medal by one shot from Malcolm Gray with OK Young Cho clinching the Ladies title with an 80, eight clear of Vera Bondareko.

In Division ‘A’ Alan Robertson eased to a five-shot win over Salil Dungarwal with a 65 while in Division ‘B’ Gary Hull shot a 66 for a one-stroke win over Rail Shavaleev.

The Ladies net winner was Alfira Shavaleev with a 67, three clear of Adina Cameron.

GRAY DRIVES OFF WITH AUDI STABLEFORD MALCOLM Gray compiled 41 points to clinch the top spot in Division ‘A’ of last month’s Audi Individual Stableford by four points from Jamie Scott with Farhan Yacub in third place, one point further back.

Rail Shavaleev topped the pile in Division ‘B’ also with 41 points, six clear of John Norton while the Ladies prize went to Alfira Shavaleev with 40 points, three ahead of Vera Bondarenko.

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ARABIAN GOLF LOCAL NEWS ▶

AL AIN EQUESTRIAN SHOOTING & GOLF CLUB

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A B U DHABI CIT Y GOL F C LUB

ANWER SHAIKH LAYS SOLID FOUNDATIONS

CHAUDHRY AND KAWAKAMI CROWNED CLUB CHAMPIONS

ANWER Shaikh top scored in the first round of the Grand Millennium Monday event of March with a score of 21 Stableford points.

George Tait finished second on a countback with Jenaro Conzalez and Graham Miller both scoring 20 points.

The format of the tournament will see players take to the course every Monday throughout the coming months in a 9-hole Stableford format. The best two from three scores will make a player’s total and the highest score at the end of each month will be victorious.

WAJAHAT Chaudhry won a threeman play-off against Stuart Kent and Eric Smith to win this year’s Club Championship sponsored by Etihad Airways. Chaudhry won on the first extra hole with a steady par after his opponents found trouble off the tee.

The Ladies Club Championship went to 12-year-old Sakura Kawakami after she scored rounds of 73 and 79 to finish top of the pile.

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A L BADIA GOLF CL UB

PAUL BYRNE WINS THE DIGS MARK FAHY MEMORIAL AL Badia Golf Club once again hosted the annual Mark Fahy Memorial Golf Day, sponsored by Dubai Duty Free, and coming out on top was Paul Byrne with a Stableford haul of 42 points.

Nicola Milton dominated the Ladies Division with 37 points, two clear

of Maura Duggan while the Men’s Division was won by Westley Burke with 37 points, three clear of Bryan Flanagan with Anthony Stroud third.

Ross Hepworth shot the lowest gross score of the day while the Nearest the Pin prize went to John Spicer.

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A L GHAZAL GO L F C LUB

SMITH CLINCHES THE MEDAL Club Captain Eric Smith shot a gross 71 to win the recent Etihad Airways Medal, while Phil Miller emerged victorious in Division ‘A’ with a score of 67, two clear of Stuart Kent. There were some grear scores in Division ‘B’ as Jeff Kidd won on a countback over Anton Van Schalkwyk after both returned a net 68 with Barrie Van Zyl in third place on 69.

Division ‘B’ once again saw some great scores, with Jeff Kidd winn on countbackt to Anton Van Schalkwyk in second place with 68 net followed in third place by Barrie Van Zyl with 69 net.

A superb score of 64 was more than enough to win Division ‘C’ for Duncan Murphy with Sally Turner second on 66 ahead of David Mitchell on a countback.

SMITHS DRIVE OFF WITH THE HERTZ PAIRS OPEN A SUPERB score of net 59 saw Melissa and Eric Smith clinch the 2016 Hertz Pairs Open Championship by four strokes from Dan Whittaker and Sakura Kawakami.

The best gross prize went to Stuart Kent and Robert Horridge with a 69 while the best mixed pair were Lady Vice Captain Hye Sook Jee and Edward Chaffin, also with a 69.

JOY FOR LUKE IN MEN’S OPEN MENA Tour pro and Asian Tour player Luke Joy clinched this year’s Al Ghazal Men’s Open, sponsored by SSP UAE, thanks to an impressive two-day display. Joy fired rounds of 72 and 76 to clinch a one-stroke win over Steve Kelbrick, who had matched Joy’s opening 72 and pushed him all the way to the line during day two.

LOW SCORES IN NIGHT GOLF EVENT THE team of of Lorna Hockings, Daniel Hockings, Jim Dingwall and David Miles eased to victory in the four-player texas scramble night golf tournament recently with a net score

ARABIAN GOLF 77

of 21.6 over nine holes. Finishing second with a net 24.8 was the team of Leon Herselman, Charmaine Herselman, Harry Van Wyk and Amir Al Barki.

ARABIAN GOLF LOCAL NEWS

BROWNS BATTLE BACK FOR EXTREME GLORY JAMES and Diana Brown produced a magnificent second round bounce back to turn over a seven shot deficit and win the Al Hamra Members Extreme Pairs recently.

Leading the way after day one was the duo of John Kiddie and Mike Dunn but they had a poor second day and dropped back to finish third outright. The Browns compiled a two-day score of 77 to win by one from Paula Svensson and Andy Spavin. Dunn and Kiddie also finished on 78 but had to settle for third place after a countback.

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T H E E LS C L U B

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A L HAM RA GOLF CL UB HOGGINS SHOWS HIS EXPERIENCE

McINTOSH ENJOYS THE SOUTHERN SUN

DAVE Hoggins won the battle of young and old in the recent Monthly Medal with an 86, defeating the youngest player in the field – Niilo Maki-Petaja – on a countback to take the spoils.

Both players fired a gross 86 but it was Hoggins’ stronger back nine of 41 that saw him finish top of the pile. John Kiddle shot an 87 to take third place outright.

Mags Feenie topped the Net Division with a level par 72 to finish three clear of Eric Engelbrect with Rita, his wife, third on 77.

EUAN McIntosh shot an excellent 67 to win the gross prize in the recent Members Medal sponsored

by Southern Sun Abu Dhabi. The net prize went to Kaoru Wakita with a 65, a clear five strokes ahead of Craig Gittus with Chris Abreu third on 72.

BAKAL CLINCHES THE LADIES OPEN ANASTASIA Bakal eased to a fivestroke win in the tenth staging of the RAK Ladies Open recently. Bakal fired a net 1-under 71 to win, ahead of Alison Muirhead, while in the Net Division Jamie Roslyn Camero from Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club fired a 70 to emerge victorious ahead of Sakura Kawakami by two shots.

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A RABIAN RANCHES GOL F C LUB HARTZUIKER TOO GOOD IN THE MEDAL

Above: Club Champions Matthieu Charnelet (left) and Kim Chiang (right) accept their prizes from the Club Captains.

CLOSE CALLS IN CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS BOTH the Men’s and Ladies battle for Club Championship honours came down to the final hole, with Matthieu Charnelet clinching the Men’s title and Kim Chiang taking the Ladies.

Charnelet defeated Scott Sullivan on the final green after a tense battle. Both players are past champions of the event and eventually it was Charnelet who prevailed with an excellent lag putt and tap-in to sign for a second successive round of 71 and a onestroke win.

Chiang and Adele McKelvey battled all day long and with a one-

shot lead heading down the last Chiang made par to clinch the title.

Robert Garner fired a final round 72 to propel himself to victory in the Senior category with a 151 total and a one-stroke win over Eddie Ramage with Iain Lachlan third, three strokes further back.

In the Junior competition Erik Hartzuiker came out on top with a superb round of 73, five stroke clear of Ladies winner Chiang and Marcello Pereira.

It was a record-breaking event as the three records for lowest scores in the Men’s, Ladies and Junior competitions were all broken.

ERIK Hartzuiker clinched last month’s Rivoli Monthly Medal with a gross 74 and a one-stroke win.

Viv Albertyn took second place on a countback over Gary Swan with Sean McLaughlin taking fourth place with a 76.

In Division ‘A’ Carl Knight took the top spot with a 70, two clear of Marcello Pereria while in Division ‘B’ Martin Atack won on a countback with Mario Gutierrez after both players signed for a 71.

The Ladies Gross winner was Adele McKelvey with an 80 while the Ladies net winner was Pauline Wallace with a 72, one stroke clear of Ailsa Campbell.

GANTTS WIN THE INVESTMENT PAIRS QUALIFIER JAMES and Dory Gantt will represent the Els Club in the UAE Daman Investments Pairs Final at Al Hamra Golf Club after coming out on top in the recent qualifying round.

STEVE THOMPSON AND GREG WARD WIN THE POOLS

TOP PROS DROP IN FOR PRACTICE

FORMER England Rugby Union star Steve Thompson and Greg Ward clinched the Men’s Division in the recent Grosvenor Pools Day with a tally of 48 points, two clear of Andrew Burrow and Jett Smith.

The Mixed/Ladies Division was won by Anne Hainey and Elli Oschmann as they scored an impressive 47 points to win by four from Pauline Wallace and Martin Verity.

SWEDEN’S Joel Sjoholm and Scotland’s Scott Henry dropped in for some practice last month and surprised members by teeing it up alongside them. Stein Arnesen, Jeff Ogden and Philip Wirz played 18 holes with Sjoholm, while the Els Angels received a personalised golf clinic on the short game directly from Scott Henry.

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T H E ROYAL GO L F C LUB STACEY THOMAS LEADS THE WAY

STEVEN HILL MAKES HIS MOVE

LADY Vice Captain Stacey Thomas led her team to victory in last month’s Ladies Charity Scramble.

Thomas and her team of Sara Thomson and Stella Bullock achieved a net score of 68.5 to take the spoils. The monthly texas scramble competitions are proving popular with Bahrain’s female golfers and feature great prizes sponsored by the Sheraton Bahrain Hotel. Money raised at the events is being donated to Ladies Captain Karin Lutz’s chosen charity, The Palm Association.

STEVEN Hill won the seventh round of the Audi Quattro Cup qualifying series to move into pole position on the Order of Merit. Hill compiled 37 Stableford points on the day to win by two from John Fitzmaurice with Rick Hillson third one stroke further back.

Hill moved ahead of Arnaud Robert on the overall points list with Rob Lane in third place with just one round left to play before the finals. The top two on the Order of Merit will go on to represent Bahrain as one of the 60 teams competing in the prestigious World Finals.

T O WE R LI N K S G O LF C LU B

KELLY AND BUXMANN STEAL THE SHOW

WHATLING SEALS THE SENIOR OPEN FORMER member Alan Whatling returned to Yas Links to win this year’s Senior Open with a superb gross 75, six strokes clear of Mike Bulliman.

Taking the ladies title was Lora Al Marzooqi with a countback win over Susab Brodie after both players signed for a gross 99. The ladies net

DEBBIE Lane was the stand-out performer in the second round of the 2016 Dadabhai Travel Order of Merit Series with victories in the ladies gross and net Divisions. Lane signed for a 91 to top the gross pile and her net 71 gave her an eight-stroke win over Lady Captain Karin Lutz.

Ahmed Mohamed Ahmed won the men’s gross with a 76 ahead of junior Khalifa Daij by three strokes.

Ahmed also clinched the net prize as his 67 gave him a two-shot win over Jamie Bowen.

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YAS LINKS ABU DHABI

DEBBIE LANE FASTEST TO THE POST

STEVE Kelly and Manilyn Buxmann were crowned the Men’s and Ladies Club Champions after two impressive displays. Kelly had only recently joined the club and he won a play-off against Johan Buxmann to take the title.

Manilyn Buxmann sealed an easy nine-stroke win over former champion Yuki Pellerine.

AZZAM SEALS A COUNTBACK WIN

title went to Leslie Lloyd with a 77 while a net 72 was enough for Michael Bartholsden to clinch a one-stroke win over Gordon Griffiths.

JIHAD Azzam defeated Miller Green in a countback to win the recent weekly social after both players compiled 18 Stableford points. Mike Sherman finished in third place, one point further back, while the wooden spoon went to Keiji Tanaka with just seven points to his name.

STEVE BURNELL BURNS IT UP STEVE Burnell eased to a two-point victory in the recent Ecco Challenge after amassing a solid score of 38 Stableford points. Finishing two back in second place was Jon Broadheath with third place going to Michael Bartholdson after a countback.

DAN KIRKWOOD TOPS THE LOT DAN Kirkwood clinched the top spot in the recent Audi Medal thanks to a superb gross 68. First place in Division ‘A’ (hcp 0-12) went to William Royce with a countback win over the previous month’s winner David Barwell, while Mark Critchley topped the pile in Division B (hcp 13-28) with a 70, one clear of Abdulla Al Marzooqi.

AMAZING ALISON CROWNED LADIES CHAMPION ALISON Muirhead clinched the Tower Links Ladies Open title with an impressive 76, five strokes clear of Anastasia Bakal. An opening nine of 39 was followed by a 1-over 37 as Muirhead cruised to victory while Amalia Arredondo won the net prize with a countback win over Yuki Pellerine after both players returned a 73.

REST-OF-THE-WORLD TRIUMPHANT IN SPYDER CUP IN A tightly fought contest the Rest of the World (ROW) team fought off a determined effort by Team Europe to win this year’s Spyder Cup. After an absence of a few years, the Cup returned bigger and better than ever with 44 competitors slugging it out in the betterball matchplay format.

The opening match went the way of ROW, with the trend continuing for the first three matches until Europe found their feet.

At the half way mark the ROW held a six point lead but Europe dug deep and fought back to within one. However, it was too little too late as ROW hung on to win.

ARABIAN GOLF 79

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STYLE&TRAVEL

AWAY FROM THE CREASE WITH

KEVIN PIETERSEN former ENGLAND captain SAYS DUBAI is SPOILT FOR CHOICE WITH GOLF COURSES Richard Bevan CAUGHT UP WITH kp at emirates golf club to discuss his love affair with golf Worldwide GOLF 81

STAR SPOTTING – KEVIN PIETERSEN EMIRATES AIRLINE – TRAVEL LONDON EMIRATES SKYWARDS – COMPETITION DRIVING RANGE – BUGATTI CHIRON TEE TIMES – DANNY WILLETT ‘FAVOURITE FIVE’: ANDY SULLIVAN

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S TA R S POT T I N G

A CRICKETER'S TOUCH AROUND

THE GREENS KEVIN PIETERSEN

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ONTROVERSIAl cricketer Kevin Pietersen has got “the bug” for a sport that features holes instead of wickets. The former England one-day and Test match captain adores playing golf at every spare moment now that he solely focuses on Twenty20 cricket around the world. KP recently starred in the Pakistan Super League for losing-finalists Quetta Gladiators, which was based in the UAE, and while he was here we caught up with the 35 year old to find out all about his passion for golf.

Worldwide Golf: What do you think about Dubai as a golf destination?

Kevin Pietersen: It’s incredible. It’s so good that it makes it difficult to decide which courses to play on when you want a round. Golfers are completely spoilt for choice. The weather is incredible at the moment before it gets too hot in the summer, so all-round, it’s an ideal place to come and play.

WWG: They’re all great courses – but if you had to pick a favourite which one would it be ?

KP: Emirates Golf Club is up there with the best but my favourite has to be The Els Club.

It’s an absolutely beautiful course and it’s where I’ve played my best round!

WWG: Have you always been interested in golf?

KP: Yes, but I actually only started playing a couple of years ago. I never played whilst I was a full-time cricketer but now I have the bug in a big way so I play whenever I can, wherever I am and as much as possible.

WWG: What’s your handicap?

KP: 11.4 registered. I’m competitive off that!

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WWG: That’s a fantastic effort for somebody who has only been playing for two years.

KP: Thanks. I went around in 80 off the back tees on a very hard private course in Melbourne recently.

WWG: What’s the strongest part of your game?

KP: I don’t think I’ve got a strongest part. My touch around the greens isn’t bad because I’m a field player in cricket so my touch is decent.

I usually leave myself in putting range when I’m pitching, which helps.

WWG: Which players do you most admire from The European Tour?

KP: I respect anybody who plays golf on The Tour because I know how hard the sport is. I’m mates with some of the players so I don’t want to throw out any names, but I admire each and every single one of them.

FANTASY FOURBALL:

THAT ONE’S EASY. MY WIFE AND TWO KIDS WHEN THEY GROW UP.

MY TOUCH AROUND THE GREENS ISN’T BAD BECAUSE I’M A FIELD PLAYER IN CRICKET SO MY TOUCH IS DECENT. I USUALLY LEAVE MYSELF WITHIN PUTTING RANGE WHEN I’M PITCHING, WHICH HELPS.

Golf in

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ne of Europe’s great cities, London can boast some of the finest golfing facilities in the world and in Heathrow it has a global hub that connects with just about anywhere you can think of. There’s a long list of golf clubs in the Greater London area and within a 30 mile radius of Heathrow there are a handful of truly world-class courses to play the ancient game. You’d be amazed to think such tranquil and lush golf clubs exist so close to the hustle and bustle of such a vast metropolis, but they complement the landscape and are among the best in the world with a rich heritage – playable all year round.

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The Grove

One of England’s finest golf courses, The Grove has previously held a World Golf Championships event in 2006 when Tiger Woods romped to a wire-to-wire 8-shot win and this year will welcome The European Tour again when Luke Donald plays tournament host to The British Masters supported by SKY Sports. The 7,152 yard championship golf course was designed by internationally-renowned course designer Kyle Phillips and the 18 holes are wonderfully offset by a series of worldclass facilities including a 5* hotel, spa and outstanding restaurants. One unique and refreshing aspect of The Grove is that the stunning course is open to golfers of all abilities with a pre-booked tee time. Whilst many golf clubs in and around London have waiting lists, this firm-but-fair test of golf can be played at any time.

Distance from Heathrow: 21 miles

Rates: From £159 (May – October)

thegrove.co.uk

Foxhills Golf Club OPENED in 1975, Foxhills Golf Club has three courses, two of which are Championship 18 hole layouts: The Bernard Hunt course – named after The European Tour player who was head professional at Foxhills for 25 years – and the Longcross course. Both courses combine parkland and heathland elements, while the nine hole Manor course is perfect for honing your short-game skills. Despite its

Distance from Heathrow: 15 miles

relative young age compared to some of the other classic courses in the vicinity, Foxhills has had the honour of hosting the Players’ Championship of Europe on two occasions, as well as three editions of The European Tour Qualifying School, notably in 1977 when future double Major Champion Sandy Lyle was the winner. The club is also home to the Senior PGA Professional Championship until 2020.

Rates: From £55

St George’s Hill GC WITH three loops of 9 holes you can play any two to make up 18 or play all three and spend the entire day out on the course. Designed by Harry Colt, the notion remains to this day that St George’s Hill is Colt’s masterpiece with holes that follow natural contours and all beautifully framed by silver birch, heather and tall Scots pine. A golfing oasis within the M25.

Distance from Heathrow: 17 miles Rates: (May – October) £145 for 18 holes

foxhills.co.uk

stgeorgeshillgolfclub.co.uk

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Sunningdale MEMBERS at Sunningdale like to boast that their property is the closest thing to Augusta National that any course in the UK can offer, and with two courses that meander through pine trees, framed by lush, purple heather their claim isn’t far from the truth. The changes in elevation aren’t as dramatic as those found at Augusta but they sure are breathtaking.

Sunningdale’s Old Course is laid out over a mixture of hills, heathland and woodland and was designed by Willie Park Junior and opened in 1900.

The New Course opened 1923 on heathland and subsequent tweaks to the original layout were made in 1934 and 1939 when more land became available. It has twice hosted the Senior Open Championship in recent years and has also played host to the British Masters, the European Open and the Women’s British Open.

Distance from Heathrow: 14 miles Sunningdale-golfclub.co.uk New & Old course: £215 (or play both in one day for £315)

The Berkshire THE BERKSHIRE was founded in 1928 and is host to The Berkshire Trophy, one of the UK’s major amateur competitions, whose past winners include Sir Nick Faldo, Sandy Lyle and Ross Fisher. The Berkshire has also hosted the English Amateur Championship and the British Senior Amateur Championship and with two superb Championship courses it’s easy to see why.

Both Blue and Red courses are highly regarded but it is the Red which takes most of the plaudits, thanks to its dramatic changes in elevation, more undulating terrain. It has equal numbers of par 3s, par 4s and par 5s – six of each – which is most unusual! theberkshire.co.uk

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Distance from Heathrow: 20 miles

The Arch London is a luxurious Georgian townhouse hideaway in the heart of Central London. A regular resident amongst the top ten hotels in the capital on TripAdvisor, the officially rated five star property is renowned as one of London’s best kept secrets for those in the know. The hotel is tucked away on a calm residential street a stone’s throw from the city bustle of Bond Street, Hyde Park and the West End and spans seven Grade II listed former Georgian townhouses and two mews homes.

English heritage is fused with contemporary boutique design in the decor, which features walls covered in eye-catching hand-made wallpaper and artwork by rising British talents. The interior of the foyer is quietly glamorous, boasting studded leather, statement artwork, marble and glass, and a specially commissioned video painting of iconic London scenes is digitally projected. A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World™ and Pride of Britain, the hotel boasts 82 bedrooms, including four sumptuous suites spread over six floors. Spacious interconnecting rooms are on offer for families or larger groups.

Guestrooms are all light, airy and spacious with high Georgian ceilings. The hotel also boasts a warm, opulent Martini Library lounge area for guests to enjoy fine cocktails or Afternoon Tea. Plus, Hunter 486 restaurant, which is named after the 1950s dialing code for Marylebone and offers a ‘Best of British’ inspired menu. Designed with an air of nostalgic London glamour, the restaurant features gleaming leather booths, blown glass chandeliers and statement artwork.

www.thearchlondon.com

Distance from Heathrow: 11 miles

The Buckinghamshire Golf Club DESIGNED by the legendary John Jacobs, The Buckinghamshire Golf Club has hosted many professional tournaments including the Senior Tournament of Champions from 1996-2000 and the Ladies European Masters. With USGA standard greens it’s open all year round and with devoted greenkeeping staff the facility has quickly become recognised as one of the finest parkland courses in the South of England.

Both Rivers Misbourne and Colne come into play on seven of the first 12 holes which makes it a tough test and the large greens – some of which are up to 45 yards long – can alter a hole’s characteristics dramatically.

.buckinghamshiregc.com

Moor Park Golf Club Wentworth Club WENTWORTH CLUB is the headquarters for The European Tour and is one of the most exclusive properties in the United Kingdom.

Wentworth is a Members’ Only club, so getting a tee-time is a tough task. The three courses (West, East and Edinburgh) are all supreme examples of Championship courses but it is the West which is the most renowned of the trio, having hosted the World Match Play Championship from 1964-2007, the BMW PGA Championship since 1984 and The Ryder Cup in 1926 and 1953. The past winners over the West course reads like a Who’s Who of golf, with Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Arnold Palmer, Seve Ballesteros and Sir Nick Faldo just five famous names picked from the Roll of Honour.

WIN the chance to follow in the footsteps of these golfing giants around this famed layout by entering our competition to win a place in this year’s BMW PGA Championship Pro-Am – turn to Page 91.

Distance from Heathrow: 12 miles

.wentworthclub.com

WITH two courses and a well-tiered rates system, Moor Park offers first class golf in luxurious surroundings. Set among 300 acres of mature woodland the two Championship courses blend into the grounds of the estate, at the heart of which is the stunning 17th century Mansion House – a clubhouse fit for any golf course.

Long rough is absent throughout the two courses to aid speed of play and help all levels of golfers enjoy their round, and even-paced greens are in play all year round. Designed by Harry Colt in 1923 with a brief to make the golf holes seem like they were carved naturally into the terrain, Colt succeeded in creating two stunning courses in idyllic surroundings.

Distance from Heathrow: 17 miles

Rates: From £40

moorparkgc.co.uk

Win

CO M P E T I T I O N

A place in the 2016 BMW PGA Championship Pro-Am with Emirates Airline The winner will also receive flights*, 1 x tournament season ticket and 1 day’s hospitality To enter go to www.worldwide.golf and answer this question: Which famous South African redesigned the West Course at Wentworth?

Pro-Am date: 25 May Tournament date: 26-29 May

* Flights are based on an economy ticket from Dubai. All other travel and accommodation expenses are the responsibility of the winner. For full terms and conditions email compinfo@worldwide.golf

CHIRON

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N 2005 Bugatti launched the $1million Veyron, the technological masterpiece that quickly made headlines and broke records all over the motoring world. From it’s mind blowing 1,000bhp and 16 radiators to it’s jaw- dropping top speed of 256mph the Veyron was a huge publicity project by owners Audi who used it to outshine the likes if Ferrari and Lamborghini. It’s claimed Audi lost money on every Veyron that left the production line and in the eco-friendly world of the hybrid it would also become the ‘Concord’ of its era.

Now a new era of supercars has come of age known as ‘the hypercar’ such as Ferrari’s LaFerrari, Porsche’s 918 Spyder and McLaren P1, which all boast impressive performance figures but fall short of the Veyron in comfort and top speed but win hands down when it comes to saving the planet on emissions.

The motoring world has been speculating for a number of years that Bugatti will go the hybrid route or opt for a more compact lightweight turbo-charged engine like AMG Performance have done with Mercedes. So when they unveiled the Chiron to replace the Veyron, Bugatti decided to bring the magic back by sticking to their existing formula of furious pace and lavish luxury. The 1,500bhp Chiron carries a $2.6million price tag and only 500 will be made available – you can’t really have too many lining up next to each other in Dubai and Monaco.

Stopping Power THE Chiron uses carbon-ceramic brake rotors that are all 0.8-inch larger in diameter and 0.1-inch thicker; the front rotors are 16.5 inches across and the rears are 15.7.

The front brake calipers employ eight pis.tons, while the rears have six

8 LITRE QUAD TURBO W-16 ENGINE When chasing top-speed honours, horsepower matters.

Even so, there are diminishing returns in the fight against the atmosphere at higher speeds. The Chiron’s redesigned 8.0-litre quad-turbo-charged W-16 engine produces 1500 horsepower, 300 more than the outgoing Veyron Super Sport – and yet it tacks only another 3 mph onto that car’s top speed, and only eight more atop the 1001-hp Veyron 16.4’s 253-mph max.

Bugatti has tuned the Chiron’s four turbo-chargers to work sequentially, with two operating at low engine speeds for better response before the other two take over above roughly 3,800 rpm for maximum power. Down the line, there will no doubt be additional variations on the Chiron theme that add precious miles per hour to the top speed.

Bugatti claims the clutches are the “largest, highestperforming” components ever fitted to a car. They’d better be if they’re going to stand up to the 8.0-litre’s 1180 lb-ft of torque during sub-2.5-second rips to 62 mph. Like the Veyron, the Chiron is a rolling heat-exchanger farm, with more than 13 gallons of coolant circulating through two separate cooling loops. The first loop holds 3.2 gallons of liquid and cools the turbo-chargers’ intercoolers; the larger loop services the engine and pumps 9.8 gallons of coolant through its veins into three radiators. There also are heat exchangers for the engine, transmission, rear-differential, and hydraulic oils, as well as those needed for cabin heat and air conditioning.

PRICE

0-62 MPH

$ 2.6 million

2.5

approx

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POWER

approx. secs.

1,500 bhp

D R I V I N G RA N G E

Horse Power The Chiron’s redesigned 8.0-litre quad-turbo-charged W-16 engine produces 1500 horsepower, 300 more than the outgoing Veyron .Super Sport

!a set $42,000 Massive 20-inch 285/30 front and 21-inch 355/25 rear bespoke Michelin tyres boast a larger contact patch than the Veyron’s and will apparently be easier to install and allow lower operating expenses. Considering how the Veyron Super Sport’s tyres cost $42,000 per set and it’s believed that all four wheels after three tyre swaps need to be changed, costing a further .$70,000

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Sign Up Now & Become an EGF Member Today!

EMIRATES www.egfgolf.com

GOLF FEDERATION Membership Benefits & Partners

• EGF – Discounted green fees at all EGF Affiliated golf clubs in the UAE. Go to www.egfgolf.com to view current rates.

• WWG – Free annual subscription to Worldwide Golf Magazine • Tee & Putt Mini Golf – All EGF Members receive 15% off on admission, up to 4 pax.

Special birthday & party packages. Contact Tee & Putt Mini Golf at info@teeandputt.com • Park Rotana – All EGF Members receive: 15% off F&B at Coopers, Teatro, and Ginger & ParlKafe restaurants 10% off ALL massage treatments at Bodylines 20% off on annual membership at Bodylines 15% off on 6 months membership at Bodylines • GolfLan – EGF Membership is included within the GolfLan membership.

For more information contact GolfLan at info@golflan.com.

• Hiltonia Beach Club Fitness and Spa - Full Membership (Unlimited use of beach, pools, gym, steam, sauna, jacuzzi, tennis) 1 Year Membership (After 20% discount): Male - AED 9,400 (from AED 11,750); Female - AED 6,500 (from AED 8,200); Couple - AED 12,800 (from AED 16,000); Children 5-7 years - AED 1,500 (AED 1,875); Children 18-20 - AED 3,960 (from AED 4,950) • HSBC – Sponsor of The Presidents Cup. • Dubai Duty Free - Sponsor and host of Dubai Duty Free UAE Nationals Cup.

TEE TIMES

THE PARTNERSHIP CAME ABOUT THROUGH MY LOVE OF WATCHES. I’VE ALWAYS ENJOYED WEARING DIFFERENT WATCHES BUT TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH A BRAND AS COOL AND OUT THERE AS AP IS FANTASTIC.”

AP PROVING THE PERFECT FIT FOR WILLETT

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NE of the newer members of luxury watch brand Audemars Piguet’s ever-growing golfing family is 2016 Dubai Desert Classic winner Danny Willett.

The Englishman was signed up to AP during a high-flying 2015 season that saw him take second place behind Rory McIlroy in The Race to Dubai.

He joins the so-called ‘Dream Team’ which also includes the likes of Sir Nick Faldo, Henrik Stenson, Keegan Bradley, Darren Clarke, Byeong Hun An , Miguel Angel Jiménez, Ian Poulter and Lee Westwood.

“I’m enjoying being part of the AP family,” says Willett. “The partnership

came about through my love of watches.

I’ve always enjoyed wearing different watches but to be associated with a brand as cool and out there as AP is fantastic.

“It’s not just your typical stuff, their watches are that little bit different – a bit funky – and I think that sets them apart from the others.”

AP’s slogan is: “To break the rules, you must first master them” and Willett’s cool performance at Emirates Golf Club last in February, which saw him win the Desert Classic by a single stroke under extreme pressure, proved he’s certainly a worthy ambassador.

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ROYAL OAK PERPETUAL CALENDAR

TO P 5 CO U R S E S

‘FAVOURITE FIVE’ with Andy Sullivan

AGE: 29 FROM: NUNEATON, UK TURNED PROFESSIONAL: 2011 PROFESSIONAL TOUR WINS: 3

4 The Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Club (Canada)

The scenery around the golf course is absolutely spectacular.

If you have ever had the experience of playing there, you’d completely understand why it’s in my top five.

5 3

1

Emirates Golf Club (UAE)

I love it because it’s a course that suits great ballstrikers. You’ve got to be able to move the ball both ways, which is something that I really enjoy doing.

Nuneaton Golf Club (United Kingdom)

I can’t leave my home golf club out! It’s a lovely, little short course and it’s where I grew up playing on. I would definitely get some stick from the members if I didn’t include it in my ‘Favourite Five’.

2

Leopard Creek Country Club (South Africa)

It’s an unbelievable golf course with all the wildlife running around. You could be on the green and a cheetah will be running beside you. What a fantastic course.

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Royal Lytham & Saint Annes Golf Club (United Kingdom)

It’s an old-style Links course which I absolutely love. It’s a course that I’ve played well on in the past when I was an amateur. Another reason I adore it is that the greens are generally pure.

TO BREAK THE RULES, YOU MUST FIRST MASTER THEM.

THE VALLﾃ右 DE JOUX. FOR MILLENNIA A HARSH, UNYIELDING ENVIRONMENT; AND SINCE 1875 THE HOME OF AUDEMARS PIGUET, IN THE VILLAGE OF LE BRASSUS. THE EARLY WATCHMAKERS WERE SHAPED HERE, IN AWE OF THE FORCE OF NATURE YET DRIVEN TO MASTER ITS MYSTERIES THROUGH THE COMPLEX MECHANICS OF THEIR CRAFT. STILL TODAY THIS PIONEERING SPIRIT INSPIRES US TO CONSTANTLY CHALLENGE THE CONVENTIONS OF FINE WATCHMAKING.

ROYAL OAK CHRONOGRAPH IN YELLOW GOLD