Dubai Golf & Viya Golf Club Life | Nov - Dec 2023

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THURSDAY

Originally founded in 1988 as the member’s magazine for Emirates Golf Club, ‘CLUB LIFE’ is the quintessential guide to what’s new and what’s next in and around Dubai Golf and Viya Golf Clubs, tailored to our network of Club members and residents across the United Arab Emirates. Discover the flavours of the month across the Clubs’ dining scene, seek out the latest lifestyle trends with unique fitness supplements, and digest the latest golfing tips and updates from the group’s 11 premium golf courses. The magazine is produced bi-monthly across digital and print platforms and

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GOLF CLUB UPDATE

CHRISTOPHER MAY CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, DUBAI GOLF

Welcome back to most of you who have been enjoying cooler climes away from Dubai over the Summer, as we approach the start of the new golf season.

MEMBERS’ CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE

We are pleased to welcome our Members’ Consultative Committee for another exciting season at the Club. The Committee continues to be a valuable asset in enhancing communication between membership and management of Emirates Golf Club with focus to improve the experience and enjoyment of the Club for all Members.

Our Captains Frank Duggan and Fiona Berry will be joined by Vice-Captains Joseph Andrade and Josie Tracey along with Ashok Sindhu, Scott Campbell, Ian Gregory, Jasmin Fichte, Kunal Seth, Young Joon Ahn, Rohan Mehta and Marwan Hadi to form the 2023/2024 Committee. We look forward to a productive season ahead as we work to make your membership experience a memorable one.

GOLF COURSES CONDITION & ETIQUETTE

Our golf course maintenance teams have worked very hard to ensure the golf courses are in excellent condition as we start the season and this a key focus of the team throughout the year. Member feedback has been very positive on both courses. Over the past four months, the courses have been played almost exclusively by Members, yet golf course etiquette is poor.

Pitch marks are not always replaced, divots are not always refilled with sand and bunkers are not raked. It is your responsibility as a Member to ensure you show good golf etiquette and encourage your playing partners to do the same. Thank you for your co-operation on this important aspect of being a Member.

GOLF ACADEMY & CAR PARK SOLAR PANEL SHADE

Work has been slow on the new golf academy building resulting in a completion date of the end of the year due to delays in DM approvals. The facility will be worth the wait and will significantly improve the facilities to help Members improve all aspects of your game!

The Solar Panel Car Park shade structure is nearing completed, which will supply enough electricity to all the lighting at the Club including the power to lights on the Faldo Course. We are excited for the completion of this new addition and the improvement of our ongoing sustainability efforts at the Club.

HERO DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC

Thursday 18th – Sunday 21st January 2024

Preparations for the Hospitality set-up will start in the coming weeks, the Majlis Course will be over-seeded in early December with carts coming off the Majlis Course from 9th December 2023. In response to Member feedback, we will be maintaining walking on the golf course for an additional period through to 17th February 2024.

DUBAI GOLF DP WORLD TOUR TOURNAMENTS

We are delighted to be hosting the Dubai Invitational at Dubai Creek, the week prior to the Dubai Desert Classic, on January 11-14, 2024. In addition, this year’s DP World Tour Championship will be played on the Earth course at Jumeirah Golf Estates from November, 16-19, which will provide an exciting conclusion to the 2023 golf season. I must congratulate the amazing European performances at both the Solheim Cup and Ryder Cup over the recent weeks. The Ryder Cup host venue, Marco Simone Golf & Country Club, is one of our reciprocal club partners, meaning as a Member, you can avail of preferential rates. Please contact our Membership team for further information.

WELCOMING OUR NEW COLLEAGUES TO EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

I am sure most of you will have met Nico Visser who joined the team at the beginning of September as Director of Golf. Nico joined us from Education City Golf Club in Qatar having worked in Abu Dhabi and his native South Africa previously. Our golf operations team is further enhanced by Ian Brennan and Jonathan O’Brien, who returns to the team after a year at Yas Links.

I am delighted to announce that Dean Nelson has joined our team as Club Manager at Emirates Golf Club. Dean brings with him significant international experience from Hong Kong Golf Club, Fairmont St Andrew’s Scotland and Marriott Golf Resort in Portugal. Some of our Members may well remember Dean from his time with us as Director of Golf at Nad Al Sheba over 15 years ago. Dean is excited to join the Club and work alongside the excellent team we have in place. As we set to welcome him to the Club, please read his welcome message after this Emirates Golf Club update.

CLUB MANAGER A MESSAGE FROM OUR NEW

DEAN NELSON

CLUB MANAGER, EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

It gives me great pleasure to be writing in Club Life as the new Club Manager at Emirates Golf Club. Returning to Dubai Golf after almost eighteen years is really exciting, and I am very much looking forward to working with all my colleagues and Club Members to ensure Emirates remains as one of the finest Clubs in world golf.

Some of you may remember me from my previous role at Nad Al Sheba Club, where I spent six years when golf in Dubai was a very different scene. Since leaving in 2005, I have worked with Marriott Hotels, Fairmont Resorts, and for eleven years with one of our reciprocal clubs, the Hong Kong Golf Club.

I have always believed in continued education, and in 2016, I started on a path to becoming a Certified Club Manager, which coincidently was hosted at Dubai Creek. It was during that visit I hoped one day to return to Dubai Golf and I feel very privileged that this has now come to fruition.

My goals as your new Club Manager include ensuring that our members and guests enjoy not only the finest facilities but also an exceptional golf and dining experience. Working alongside my dedicated colleagues, we are fully committed to ensuring we meet and exceed these goals. I am truly humbled by the opportunity to serve as your Club Manager, and I am eager to meet each and every one of you in the coming weeks and months ahead. I look forward to seeing you around the club, sharing rounds of golf, forging friendships and creating memorable moments.

dubaigolf.com/spike/carvery

CLUB MANAGER’S MESSAGE

STEPHEN HUBNER CLUB MANAGER, JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES

DP WORLD TOUR CHAMPIONSHIP

We are excited to be hosting the 15th edition of the DP World Tour Championship from Thursday 16th – Sunday 19th November. The season finale of the DP World Tour’s Race to Dubai is always an extremely special week at the Club and I am sure that this year will be no different. We are delighted to be welcoming back many of the European Team heroes from the recent Ryder Cup in Rome, including Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, Viktor Hovland, Tyrell Hatton, and of course our own Jumeirah Golf Estates’ Member, Tommy Fleetwood!

CLUBHOUSE HOSPITALITY

This year, we are excited to be building a wonderful new Clubhouse Hospitality offering on the Earth terrace with stunning views of the 18th green going all the way back to the tee! The entire unit will be fully air-conditioned, and a premium food and beverage package will be served throughout the day. Live coverage will also be shown on various large screens, and guests will enjoy direct access to the Clubhouse terrace. Places are limited to just 150 per day and Members enjoy discounted rates. Please secure your tickets online at www.dpwtc.com.

With the hosting of such a major international golf event, there is of course a great deal of work going on around the Club to ensure that the event is successful, and our Members enjoy a memorable week. Thank you for your patience with this.

I hope you and your family are well, and that you are enjoying the time you share with us here at Jumeirah Golf Estates.

With the great weather now here, it has been lovely to see so many of our Members making the most of our fabulous outdoor activities and restaurant terraces. The busy season is now in full swing with a great deal happening around the club for you to enjoy!

FESTIVE CELEBRATIONS

It’s coming to that time of year again! I hope that you will join us on Sunday 10th December to kick-start the festivities with our Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration. We then have our fabulous festive themed Brunchissimo at Bussola on Sunday 24th December followed by our famous Christmas Day Brunch on the Monday 25th December, and then the Boxing Day Quiz on the Tuesday 26th December.

Our dedicated events team are on-hand to assist you with your festive bookings and enquiries. As always, the events will be in high demand and so we advise you to book early to avoid disappointment. Please visit the dedicated Events desk next to the Country Club reception, or you can call the team on 04 360 1817 or send an email enquiry to jevents@dubaigolf.com.

We look forward to sharing the festive season with you all here at Jumeirah Golf Estates!

UNDER AGE DRIVING OF RESIDENT CARTS

For safety reasons, the community and Club rules prohibit the use of personal golf carts by anyone under the age of 18 years. Unfortunately, there are still a high number of instances where this rule has been broken. It is our aim to ensure a safe environment for our Members and visitors to enjoy, and so we request that you take the necessary steps to prevent children from using your golf cart. As previously communicated, repeat offenders will have their membership privileges revoked.

CAPTAIN’S DAY

Saturday 9th December

Most of you will be aware that our second ever Jumeirah Golf Estates’ Captain’s Golf Day will take place on Saturday 9th December. Please support our amazing Club Captains, Evelyn Downham and Jonathan Hall, by taking part in what will be a very special event played over both courses with lots of fun on-course activations.

Evelyn and Jonathan are eager to use the event to support the Junior Colleague Fund which was created to provide a platform for Members looking to give back to our Junior Colleagues who provide them with great service at the Club.

If you would like to be more involved in the day, there are various sponsorship opportunities available for Members to contribute further to the event’s success. If you are interested in this, please reach out to our Director of Golf, Franco Botha at fbotha@dubaigolf.com.

CONGRATULATIONS, TOMMY!

I would like to congratulate our very own Jumeirah Golf Estates’ Member, Tommy Fleetwood, and all the European Team on their fantastic victory in the Ryder Cup in Rome recently.

The atmosphere around the Club during the event was incredible as our Members cheered on Tommy. I am sure you were all delighted when it was Tommy who secured the winning point after hitting that incredible drive over water onto the green at the par four, 16th hole. Well done Tommy and thank you for all you do here at the Club to grow the game and inspire us all!

THE WAIT LIST FOR GOLF MEMBERSHIP AT JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES CONTINUES TO GROW

We are delighted that the popularity of our golf memberships continues to rise, and we now have nearly 100 people on the wait list for the seven-day golf membership categories. It is important to keep a cap on the number of members to ensure you can book tee times during peak periods using your Member’s booking window. We do still have availability for weekday memberships at present, but we expect this category to also reach our capacity in the not-toodistant future.

Thank you once again for all your support of our wonderful Club and for taking the time to read this update. I look forward to seeing you soon.

CLUB MANAGER’S MESSAGE

DAVID TAGGART CLUB MANAGER, DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

It is so great to see the Club back in full swing with many familiar faces returning as well as some new ones to bolster our ranks. Invitations will be issued in December but please be advised that our annual Members Party will be held on Tuesday 20th February 2024, one surely not to be missed.

SCRATCH LEAGUE

Congratulations to Scratch team Captain, John Fellingham, and his team for what turned out to be a dominant five 1/2 to 2 ½ victory over Trump International Golf Club. John deployed great tactics to secure home advantage in the opening leg and his team delivered a commanding 3 ½ to 1 ½ lead which they defended admirably on the Sunday away leg at Trump.

That marks the team’s seventh win in the 10 years the League has been running. That pedigree shone through the entire weekend as they held their nerve better than their opponents under the pressure of a sizeable home following.

Players to compete for the 2022/2023 Scratch team were Mike McGinley, Miki Mirza, Max Burrow, Edoardo Galeppini, Emmanuele Galeppini, OB Ayton, Sami Nasr, Nathan Seldon, Bilel Belaid, Ashok Sindhu, Adonis Nasr, Tejan Fadlu Deen, Shezad Lakdawala, JP Fitzgerald, Bayhaan Lakdawala, John Fellingham and Ed Fearn.

DUBAI CREEK CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP

Congratulations again to Bayhaan Lakdawala who has been crowned Dubai Creek Men’s Club Champion for the sixth time and fourth in a row. With a score of (+2) over par, 144 total (73,71), Bayhaan fought off close challenges from Dino Varkey (+5) and OB Ayton (+6). Considering just how little golf Bayhaan has played this year, his recent form is especially impressive. Well done, Bayhaan, a gracious and popular Champion!

CAPTAIN’S TRIP

Our Club Captain, Gene Cha, was equally as dominant on his own trip to Bangkok! A 12-man contingent played four rounds of golf over five days, and all were left bemoaning the fact Gene took the spoils each day.

He more than made up for our on-course disappointment with his legendary hospitality off the course. With the help of Jehangir Makdhum, we were treated to a superb itinerary of amazing food and used their local knowledge to experience Bangkok in a way most tourists would never get to see.

We played four superb courses, the Thai Country Club, Alpine, Riverdale and Royal Gems, the last of which was comprised of nine iconic holes from around the world (17th at TPC Sawgrass and the road hole at St. Andrews), and the back-nine was a replica of the back-nine at Augusta. By then, there were several weary souls and amen corner got the best of just about all of us.

If you are planning a trip to Bangkok, I encourage you to corner both Gene and Jehangir for their recommendations.

Thank you, Gentleman!

MEMBERS’ PRACTICE AREA

This summer we have invested in an upgraded set-up at our Members Practice area. Those that have been working on their game have given great feedback and I encourage you all to make use of the facilities and take a look!

Whilst doing so, you might also bump into Matthew Hodgkiss, the latest addition to our Academy team. Matt joins us from The Track Meydan Golf Club and will be running introductory offers to meet as many of the Members as he can this winter.

DUBAI INVITATIONAL

As the tournament draws nearer, Harry Wells and his team are ramping up their preparations. We now know there will be the added excitement of seeing Rory McIlroy compete at Dubai Creek.

What a privilege it will be to see how he performs and how he might tackle the closing stretch of 16, 17 and 18. General Admission will be free for the event and there will be a separate lounge for Members in the Clubhouse. Those wishing to volunteer for the event should please reach out to the Golf Operations team. See you all there!

CLUB MANAGER’S MESSAGE

JULIAN DANBY CLUSTER CLUB MANAGER, VIYA GOLF

I can now safely say that although it’s still hot during the daytime, the summer heat is finally behind us, and our busier and much cooler winter season has arrived.

TOURISM IN ABU DHABI

It’s gearing up to be the busiest winter season ever in Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi’s key government stakeholders are leading the way in developing a host of exciting entertainment, sporting, cultural events and so much more, aimed at driving tourism and cementing the capital as the leading tourism and hospitality destination in the Middle East.

From a golf standpoint, we are already seeing a great impact of the work from our overseas sales team in promoting Abu Dhabi to leading tour operators and PGA organisations. Pansy Gonsalvez, a long-term colleague of mine who has been with the team for over 25 years, has been at the forefront of driving golf tourism across the UAE. From attending overseas trade shows to hosting trips and educating the many hotel concierge teams on the amazing golf products Abu Dhabi has to offer, we are most grateful for Pansy and her team as they drive golfers across the world to our courses.

WORLD GOLF AWARDS

I am extremely delighted to announce that each of our Viya Golf, golf courses have won an award at the recent World Golf Awards. This pays testament to not only the fabulous golf course conditions, but to the operations teams and every single Viya Golf colleague that ensures all Members and guests are welcomed warmly and enjoy a memorable experience at our Clubs. Well done to all Viya Golf Clubs on your wins.

Best Golf Course in Abu Dhabi Saadiyat Beach Golf Club

Best Golf Course in the UAE Yas Links Abu Dhabi

Best new Golf Couse in the UAE Yas Acres Golf & Country Club

ENHANCING CUSTOMER EXPERIENCES

As we move into our second year of operating these wonderful golf clubs, we continuously look at ways to improve every touch-point in our customers’ journey and to see how we can make a difference.

Our Golf Operations team, led by Martin Duff, has recently been promoted to Cluster Director of Golf across all Viya Golf facilities and has been working on numerous new golf tournament concepts for both Members and guests to enjoy.

The new ‘Vyder Cup’ is just one example of this, which will see Saadiyat Beach Golf Club Members take on Yas Links Abu Dhabi Members in an annual Ryder Cup-style, team Match Play format over two weekends.

Martin and the team have also dedicated many hours into personal development of colleagues this summer with a strong emphasis on improving guest experience across the board.

With emphasis on our commitment to producing excellent customer service, with immense support from our Human Resources and Learning & Development teams, we introduced our new ‘Service Excellence Culture’ programme which has seen over 350 Viya Golf colleagues attend an eight-hour workshop on what it means to deliver customer service excellence, focusing on ensuring that all Members and guests are provided a memorable experience at all our Clubs.

It's been fantastic to see our colleagues embrace the process and to come together as ‘one team’, to exude passion, integrity and have fun whilst they pursue the journey of excellence, all core values of Viya Golf.

I hope you enjoyed this update and, fundamentally, a brilliant golfing season ahead with Viya Golf. We look forward to seeing all Members and guests enjoying our fantastic facilities on offer and playing great golf, and as always feel free to reach out to myself if you have any feedback or suggestions.

GOLF COURSES

It would be remiss of me not to mention the outstanding efforts from our Agronomy teams, led by our Cluster Golf Course Superintendent, Corey Finn, who have undertaken multiple golf course renovation projects during an extreme summer.

I think it’s safe to say that Corey and his teams have achieve their goals this summer as they work to deliver not only exceptional playing surfaces for golfers from all over the world, but to ensure they take their memories back with them and share it with friends.

THE LATEST FROM TOPGOLF DUBAI

MIKE WALTON DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS, TOPGOLF DUBAI

TOAD IN THE HOLE

VIP’S IN VENUE

When we say Topgolf is the place to be, we mean it. We’ve had a pretty cool couple of opening weeks here to kick start the new season, with Callaway Group CEO Chip Brewer visiting, Topgolf Group CEO Artie Stars visiting and I’m sure you’ve seen it, but if you’ve been hiding under a rock and didn’t, multiple time NBA Champ and MVP, the one and only Steph Curry from the Golden State Warriors was with us absolutely smashing golf balls to the moon! It was so cool to have such superstars in the venue and just shows that Topgolf really is the place to be.

PLAN YOUR NEXT EVENT AT TOPGOLF DUBAI

Grab your clan, your work besties, your sports team, your gang over gamers or whatever group of misfits you can throw together and book an event at Topgolf Dubai. We cater for groups of all shapes and sizes for any sort of purpose. Enjoy a luxury experience in one of our VIP Suites, a bash in the bays for a bigger group, a work event in our conference rooms, buy out an entire floor if you want.

Or even better, do all of the above in the one go! The message is simple – we do events right at Topgolf. Take advantage of our brand-new host of events packages for any occasion. Our dedicated, in-house events team are on hand to make sure whatever celebration you have is your best one yet. Check out our website today and get in touch to get the planning underway!

It’s FINALLY time that I can really start talking about this news. We are so excited to announce the opening of a brand new and entirely unique restaurant and concept in our venue. Toad in the Hole will be located on Level 3 of the venue, offering up an entirely new experience for our guests.

Perfectly described by our Head Chef James Hitchens as a menu of “traditional British classics with a contemporary twist”. A brand new food menu will transport you to a classic British gastropub with all of the traditional trimmings, including what I regard as the best roast dinner in Dubai for that perfect Sunday. And our exciting and experimental drinks menu is full of surprises and flavours to die for.

WINTER IS COMING

The winter season is really coming into its own at Topgolf Dubai these past few weeks, with some fluffy clouds appearing more often across that iconic skyline. We have gotten more popular, more fun, with so much more to do in venue than any other season previous than ever before. Topgolf was always the best venue in town, but it has just got better.

As our slogan goes; “It’s Golf. It’s Not Golf. It’s Topgolf.”. We are far more than meets the eye. Our Bunker Arcade has been fully upgraded and kitted out to the maximum to provide the ultimate arcade experience, from futuristic VR showstoppers old school classics, and so many prizes to be won. Head down to Level One when you’re in venue to check it out! It’s the perfect spot to hang out while you’re getting ready for your bay, to keep the family entertained or to show off in front of your mates!

Head out through the Bunker Arcade to our Topgolf Garden, where you’ll find live music, loads of party games, your favourites brews on tap and some unbelievable street food options from our famous Topgolf Food Truck. It is the ideal location to chill out with some friends as the weather gets cooler with unrivalled views of both the venue and the Dubai Marina. The Garden is the place to be this season and we’d love to see you there!

New season means more action, and we have all of the live sport across seven mega screens in the Yard Bar and Terrace. Take advantage of our massive menu of fine foods and a dazzling drink menu while you’re sitting in, watching a match or catching up with mates in the thick of the atmosphere and the energy of the venue.

Personally, I love catching an English Premier League game on the weekend, and the Yard here at Topgolf is the best place in town to do that. For the big games especially, the place is always electric! You can book a table for any of the big games on our website to make sure you get the best seat in the house for your teams matches!

FESTIVE PACKAGES

For me, it’s never too early to talk about Christmas! Especially after the success of last year in venue, selling out our Christmas Day Brunch and our New Year’s Eve Party, we’re so excited to welcome the festive season again this year. We are delighted to be bringing back all of the same fantastic festive offers, with our heart-warming Christmas Day Brunch, our show-stopping New Year’s Eve Party and Festive Party Packages available to book throughout the festive season.

I know it might be hard to fathom, but this year is again going to be even bigger and even better than last – with no expense spared we are once again pulling out all the stops. We can’t wait to see you all in venue for what is going to be the best festive season yet! Check out all the details on our website and make this season one to remember!

UPDATE AGRONOMY

MATTHEW PERRY

GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT, EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

Well winter is here, and we look forward to the golfing season and seeing the benefits of the hard work done through the summer.

We finished off our projects last month with some tee extensions so we can spread the wear a little better. The ninth and thirteenth tees were always an issue due to how small they were, now they are larger we can move the tee markers to different sides and manage them better.

Over-seeding will soon be upon us and planned to take place between Monday 4th and Friday 8th December. We will again be over-seeding the rough, tees and approaches on the Majlis Course.

The work on the greens throughout the summer has really helped their development. I know it can sound quite strange to say we are developing them, but they are still classed as being in their infancy. This was the second full summer of growth and has seen the organic matter build to a level we are now happy with.

This has helped us with recovery after stress and be a lot more resilient. As you can see below the organic matter is larger, it’s the layer under the grass and above the sand. We will continue to manage this closely, so we have a good surface throughout.

As with previous years, it takes a few weeks for all the seeds to germinate and then we can start cutting areas to get them to a standard expected.

We will do our very best to make sure this happens as quickly as we can and mature the seed to a point where there is good coverage and enjoyable.

UPDATE AGRONOMY

STUART HORWOOD GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT, JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES

Great to see winter is finally here and all the aeration work completed until next summer. Thank you again to all the Members for your support with the aerations and maintenance morning closures, this will ensure we produce the best possible playing conditions for the golf season.

The preparations for the DP World Tour Championship are well underway and the Earth Course is starting to take shape. A big thank you to Oliver Maskell, our Assistant Golf Course Superintendent, Chris Dodds, Second Assistant Golf Course Superintendent, Jose Ramon, Assistant in Training, and all the Agronomy team that sacrifice, sleep and time away from work in the build-up to the event. I’m sure the Agronomy team will produce a golf course worthy for the best players in the world and one that our Members can be proud of.

Certain areas on the course are managed differently to cater for the Tour. Roughs are grown to 70mm (2.75 inches). Those that are brave enough to play now can really appreciate how difficult Bermuda grass is to play out of at that height. Target greens speeds are 12.5 feet. Normal daily play in the winter will be between 10.5 feet - 11 feet.

Heights cut on tees, fairways, approaches, and greens are lower to help produce a tight lie and a better ball roll. Firmness of all surfaces is increased. At this time of year, the firmness that the Tour wants is difficult to achieve without using practices like rolling. In the past two years we have introduced the road roller to approaches and fairways.

Bunkers and wood-chip are two of the biggest projects in the lead up to tournament. All wood-chip areas are refreshed, and all bunkers have undergone hard edging, sand depths checked, and lastly new sand added. This is a very time-consuming process but once completed lasts until next summer.

OTHER KEY POINTS FROM THE JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES’ AGRONOMY TEAM:

• Driving Range tee has been over-seeded with cool season Rye grass.

• The ground water project on the Fire Course will be complete by the first week of November. Following its completion, the team will work on reinstating the turf areas.

• Teff seed has been added to the Fire grass areas and in the coming week will germinate to help improve the presentation of the native areas.

USGA STIMPMETER READINGS, 1977.

AGRONOMY FUN FACT

A golf course supplies oxygen to 85.000 people a year.

The Australian Golf Industry Council has now published a study entitled "Golf - Benefits to the Environment" which points to the main positive aspects of golf courses. With reference to a scientific work by the University of Maryland from October 2018, reference is made to the positive influence of golf courses on the air we breathe: According to this, a 50m fairway produces enough oxygen for a family of four in one year. Converted to the area of a green of a golf course with an area of around 1800m, this means the annual oxygen supply for 480 people. If you take a complete golf course with 80 acres, which corresponds to 323.749m, you come to 85.000 people.

Apart from the pure oxygen supply, there is still the positive aspect of air cooling. "The grass and trees help reduce the heat in the area," the report's authors write. "Planting around buildings and parking areas also creates a more comfortable environment while reducing building cooling costs."

UPDATE AGRONOMY

HARRY WELLS

GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT, DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

We are very happy with the condition of the golf course and are encouraged to see year-on-year progress after each summer maintenance period we will carry out at Dubai Creek.

We have seen improvement in the playability of our roughs and fairways where in the past the golf ball would sit down deep within the rough with no cushion beneath.

Through scalp mowing the rough twice this summer, we have made massive improvements, and on the fairways, we have developed regular verti-cutting and top-dressing to provide a firmer surface. This has led to a more consistent strike with shorter irons.

GOLF COURSE PROJECTS

The new Driving Range tee is now open for use and is complimented with new furniture. The new target greens are still growing in and will open in mid-November. Similarly, the greens on the short game area are progressing very well and will be open in midNovember as well.

We now have a very healthy full coverage of grass, and we are bringing the cutting heights down to match the main golf course. These are very new and once we open them, it will take another two months for them to play and react the same way as the Championship Course greens. We will continue to roll and cut these greens daily to speed up this process.

CHANGES FOR DP WORLD TOUR ARRIVAL

To accommodate the best players in the world during the Dubai Invitational from the 11th – 14th January 2024, we have had to make some changes to the way the course is set up.

The most notable of these changes is the adjustment to playing lines to better defend the golf course from 300 – 350 yards off the tee. The golf course will play much narrower in these areas with the Tour also keen to add risk and reward elements to taking driver out the bag on certain holes. Elsewhere they have asked for a more penal run off area to be installed around the 13th green to defend what is a relatively short par five by modern standards.

The Tour have also asked us to increase the size of top shelf pin at the back right of the 5th green as well as the shape of the bunkering at the 5th green side and 13th green-side.

UPCOMING PROJECTS

Naturally, the Tour event will be a big focus of our team over the coming months, but the bulk of the foundational work was completed in the summer months. We will continue to mow roughs at our current heights until the end of November, at which time we will increase up to the required height for tournament. To help those efforts you will notice some ropes on the golf course in unusual places. These are being utilised to help protect high traffic areas where lots of buggies drive through. Please drive carts on fairways and cart paths as much as you can.

With summer projects coming to a close, the team will now begin finishing off detail work such as cleaning landscape beds and repairing damaged and worn areas of turf. Please avoid driving on freshly laid grass next to cart paths. We will also be stepping up our programme of rolling approaches. These areas do not get the same wear as the fairways and as a result can play too soft. By rolling them, we will compact the soil and make short chips a little easier and reduce the instances where the club digs into the turf.

VIYA GOLF

UPDATE AGRONOMY

COREY FINN

GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT, YAS LINKS ABU DHABI, SAADIYAT BEACH GOLF CLUB & YAS ACRES GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

As the golf courses here at Viya Golf move into the winter season, the teams have moved into regular maintenance programmes and normal monthly cultural practices like sand top-dressing, pencil tine aeration and general routine maintenance works. These practices continue to promote healthy turf grass surfaces through the winter months.

All golf courses are in good condition with minor fine tuning of the surfaces where areas either have not recovered from the intensive renovations programmes or have been affected by the harsh summer conditions faced in Abu Dhabi. The teams continue to work hard to deliver world-class facilities and we are happy with how the surfaces are entering the busy winter period.

WELCOMING NEW COLLEAGUES

We have some new faces to the Agronomy teams at Viya Golf.

We welcome Jackson Joseph who has taken over at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club from Bryan Cox who has moved onto an Agronomy role with the DP World Tour. Jackson, a proud New Zealander, has a strong background in golf course maintenance, coming to the Saadiyat family from Manly Golf Club in Sydney. You can also find Jackson playing rugby for the local Abu Dhabi side Harlequins on his weekends.

James Taggart who was previously our intern at Yas Links Abu Dhabi has taken over the Assistant Superintendent role at Yas Acres Golf & Country with Gregg Hood, previously Yas Acres, moving to Yas Links.

This is a well-deserved promotion after six months being a part of our internship programme for which Gregg excelled in all aspects of golf course maintenance. Some of you may know James’ brother, David Taggart, who is the Club Manager at Dubai Creek.

UPDATE RECREATION

DOUGIE GAIR HEAD OF RECREATION, EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

COMPLIMENTARY FITNESS CLASSES WITH FITLAB

We were delighted to welcome many of you to our recent Free Fitness Class Week and hope that you enjoyed participating in the range of classes we provided. Of the 12 classes offered, we had around 50 new attendees with many staying on to continue classes which was fantastic to see. We will look to run something similar soon and hopefully welcome many more of you to experience the different offerings we provide at FitLab.

GROUP CLASSES WITH FITLAB

For all fitness levels and preferences, we are pleased to share our weekly group class timetable, available to all Members and guests who are looking to up their weekly activity. Available every week within the FitLab studios, pool and gym, classes include Yoga, Zumba, Aqua Aerobics, Pilates, and so much more.

Please visit our website at dubaigolf.com/ egc/leisure to learn more and book your class in! Alternatively, please contact our Reception team at 04 417 9850 or erecreation@dubaigolf.com to start your fitness journey with FitLab Dubai.

FULL MOON YOGA ON THE LAWNS

As we start to welcome back the cooler weather, we reintroduced our popular Full Moon Yoga classes in November. These monthly events have previously been a fantastic addition to FitLab, so please join us as it is an excellent way to de-stress outside and relaxed.

REAL RACQUET ACADEMY

EMIRATES PADEL OPEN

The Padel Tennis season opener was held at Emirates Golf Club on 7th & 8th October across four different categories. It was a great event with over 60 pairs battling it out for their respective titles.

Played in quite horrendous humidity, everyone managed to stay cheerful, and each game was played to a high intensity. Congratulations to all the winners!

Emirates Padel Open Winners

• Category C+ Winners: Nico & Luca

• Category C+ Runners-up: Lisa & Austin

• Category C Winners: Marco & Santiago

• Category C Runners-up: Emaad & Gabriela

• Category D Winners: Ameer & Mohammed

• Category D Runners-up: Guilia & Stefano

COURT BOOKINGS

Book your court today or join any of our activities by visiting our website at dubaigolf.com/padel or reaching out on WhatsApp at 056 179 8324. We can’t wait to welcome you to the Real Racquet Academy!

PADEL OPEN MORNINGS

On Saturday 30th September, we also hosted open days across our locations, with over 100 people turning out to try the game. It was a fantastic morning across each property and we had so much fun introducing you to the game and our team. We will be hosting further open days throughout the season, so please come along and join the fun!

JOIN THE REAL RACQUET ACADEMY TODAY

There are 22 courts to choose from across our properties, with ample opportunities to play the fastest growing sport worldwide! As well as general play bookings (90-minute bookings are AED 50 each for all Dubai Golf Members), there are 9 coaches ready to take your game to the next level, as well as lots of options to join up and socialise with others to fall in love with the game together.

SOCIAL NIGHTS

Join for AED 110 and play with players of a similar level whilst getting tips and hints from our coaches. Available most nights across the venues.

LADIES MORNINGS

Play with our female coaches for 60 to 90 minutes and then grab a coffee and croissant and have a chat, what could be better?

PLAY WITH A COACH

Test yourselves against our coaches in this fun 90-minute match and receive help and tips on improving at the same time. Can you beat them??

INTRO SESSIONS & LEVEL ASSESSMENTS

New to the game? Come for a 30-minute introduction session then book in for a level assessment so we can match you up with similar level players and become a regular on the court!

TOURNAMENTS

Up for a challenge? Join our regular tournaments and enjoy the social aspect whilst trying to win prizes!

JUNIOR PADEL TENNIS

Kids with nothing to do, or lots of energy? Sign them up for our weekly Junior classes, running every Wednesday and Sunday. Check out the socials or website for more details.

MESSAGE CLUB CAPTAIN’S

FRANK DUGGAN

CLUB CAPTAIN, EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

It is good to be back in Dubai after our trip to the Rugby World Cup and Ryder Cup. There was a fantastic atmosphere in Rome and what a challenging golf course they created at Marco Simone. Well done to Europe for prevailing and winning back the Cup.

The first two months of the season were very busy with very high participation for all the competitions. We had a fantastic turnout on Saturday 14th October 2023 for the Mixed Season Opener. A big thank you from Fiona and myself to the Emirates Golf Club’s Golf Operations and Food & Beverage teams for supporting us with the set up for the day and great evening. The only downside for the day was Ireland’s narrow loss to the All Blacks in the Quarter Finals of the Rugby World Cup. Another big thank you to Golf Ireland and Tourism Ireland for their support.

I think there was general positive feedback for the different format of the Florida scramble. We still had great scores and well done to the winning team of Mike Kaye,Victoria Kaye, Ellen Curtis and Russell Curtis with a score of (-19) under par. I was relieved to get my drive past the ladies tee, and in the end it was a reasonably respectable drive.

I want to give a big shout to Matt Perry and his team on the outstanding condition of the courses and in particular the Majlis Course. All aspects of the course are in excellent condition, especially the greens. The rough is already “very juicy” so early in the season. We can all support Matt and the team by improving our discipline to immediately put sand in the fairway divots, repair your pitch marks on the greens and rake the bunkers. Taking the time to do these tasks is also respecting our fellow Members.

The next two months will see the weather cooling down and we go into the peak of the playing season with many high profile tournaments taking place in November and December, plus many match play matches. Good look to everyone who is taking part.

Additionally, please do not forget to put the AED 10 charity contribution for putting a ball in the water on Majlis’ and Faldo’s ninth holes. The collection jar for the men is clearly displayed in our locker room. So far it is very light so some peer pressure is much appreciated.

In November we welcome our new Emirates Golf Club, Club Manager, Dean Nelson, so I am sure you will all join me to wish him every success in the role.

Happy golfing to all and see you around the Club.

MESSAGE LADY CAPTAIN’S

FIONA BERRY

LADY CAPTAIN, EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

It has been a very hot and humid start to what is already a very busy season. Hopefully conditions will improve, and we can look forward to the very best of the UAE weather.

While we have been busy enough on the course, all eyes have been on Andalucia where Europe retained the Solheim Cup by the skin of its teeth and Rome where Europe prevailed after a nervy Sunday afternoon.

The Ladies Season Opener was held on Wednesday 4th October with a great turnout of 68 ladies beautifully turned out in red, white, and blue. We even had the odd tiara or two, so a great tribute to the UK. A splendid morning was had by all culminating in a fabulous British-themed lunch in the Pavilion.

This was closely followed by the Mixed Season Opener on Saturday 14th October where I shared drive-in duties with Frank Duggan. Nerve-racking in the extreme but it was followed by 144 Members enjoying a fun scramble on the course and a sumptuous buffet supper.

Our ladies Pink Ball Event on Tuesday 17th October raised a total of AED 35,000 in aid of breast cancer treatment in the UAE and huge thanks to our Members and sponsors for their generosity.

We have staged two Medals and a pairs competition already, and we have the Halloween Scramble and the ever-popular Diwali tournament to look forward to before the end of October.

As we enter November and December we anticipate a new tournament to the calendar – the Men’s Captains Trophy to the Ladies. This is a tradition in Ireland and Frank Duggan has generously brought it to Emirates Golf Club.

We have the finale of the DP World Tour’s Race to Dubai in November on the Earth Course so there is plenty to whet the golfing appetite.

Lastly, and on a slightly negative note, I would like to make an appeal to all Members to please rake bunkers and repair pitch marks on the greens. I have been appalled by the lack of bunker-raking and pitch repairing, no matter what time of the day or day of the week. The pitch marks are clearly made by competent golfers judging by their positions on the greens and competent golfers should know better than to leave them unrepaired. If you are playing with a guest, it is also incumbent on you to remind them of their golfing etiquette responsibilities.

Sorry to end with a whinge but it is really frustrating when the rest of the courses are in such good condition!

MESSAGE CLUB CAPTAIN’S

JONATHAN HALL

CLUB CAPTAIN, JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES

I hope you and your family are doing well and as we come out of the summer heat, it is great to see the Clubhouse and courses so busy.

Both Earth and Fire have been very well presented throughout the summer season and as the team continues to make progress against the recent ground water issue, preparation for the DP World Tour Championship is in full swing and the course is shaping up nicely.

Our Monthly Medalford and regular Jumeirah Pairs Club competitions continue to be well contested, and I would like to congratulate all recent winners.

It was superb to see the father-son duo of Nicholas and Sam Robinson win the Ryder Cup Shootout event, testament to the family environment and feel that the Club has become.

The Tommy Fleetwood Academy is getting good attendance from our Members and the Junior Development Programme and Ladies Group Programme are receiving great support. I hope everyone is enjoying the facilities and the excellent condition of the practice areas and would encourage anyone who has not yet experienced the Academy to get down there.

The Scratch Team will shortly be commencing their tournament schedule for the new year, I wish Carl Downham and the entire team all the best and would again encourage Members to get out and support them in both their home and away matches when possible.

As my last Club Life post, I would like to take this opportunity to thank those who have supported me this year throughout my Captaincy. This has been a fantastic year at Jumeriah Golf Estates, and we have continued to see the courses and the Clubhouse facilities and atmosphere go from strength to strength.

Special thanks go to all the management and colleagues across the entire Club. Your commitment, efforts, and the relationships you create with the members really helps make this a special Club.

I would like to acknowledge my good friend and Lady Captain, Evelyn Downham, who has invested so much of her time and efforts into the Club this year. It has been a real pleasure sharing this journey with you. It really has been an honour and a privilege to serve as Captain and I wish Noel O’Leary every success for his Captaincy in 2024, I know he will be a fantastic ambassador for the Club and our Members. I look forward to seeing you all at our Captains Golf Day on Saturday 9th December!

MESSAGE LADY CAPTAIN’S

EVELYN DOWNHAM

LADY CAPTAIN, JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES

HIDDEN PAIRS COMPETITION: VICTORIOUS VICTORIA AND JULIETTE

Our return to the golf course was marked by our first fun-filled hidden pairs competition of the season. The dynamic duo of Victoria Buerk and Juliette Castell clinched victory, narrowly edging out the competition with a 43 stableford countback. A big congratulations to them! Yours truly and Marta Balaguer secured a close second place, making it a memorable start to the season.

SUPPORT FROM OUR SPONSORS

Our ladies’ competitions have been in full swing, thanks to the generous support of our sponsors, The Lounge Spa and The Park Hyatt. We deeply appreciate their continued commitment to our Club. We continue to play our Monthly Individual Stableford and Pairs competitions every Wednesday. We encourage all new Members to come and join us and are delighted that we often welcome some of our Dubai Golf members too.

JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES’ DIVAS SHINE IN SOCIETY GAME

September was a historic month for our Jumeirah Golf Estates’ Ladies as we proudly represented the only all-female team at the inaugural UAE Golf Society Championship. Competing against 12 different societies from across the UAE, our ladies showcased their golfing prowess and camaraderie. Kudos to our talented ladies.

CLASH OF THE TITANS LEAGUE

In October, the Clash of the Titans league began in style at Saadiyat Golf Club in Abu Dhabi. We were thrilled to see that our Jumeirah Golf Estates ladies were well-represented with each team featuring a lady golfer. It’s always a joy to meet and compete with fellow Clubs in the Dubai Golf & Viya family, especially when it means playing on courses different from our own (although I must admit, there’s a certain charm in knowing all the quirks and secrets of our home course that keeps me a bit partial to our own Jumeirah Golf Estates fairways).

ICC UPDATE: UAE LADIES LEAGUE

Hello, Golf Enthusiasts!

The summer holidays are behind us, and the ladies at Jumeirah Golf Estates have returned with a swing. Here’s a glimpse into what’s been happening at our Club.

Great news for our club as the long-standing UAE inter-Club competition continues for another year. The live draw hosted at Katsuri restaurant brought together UAE golf captains and led to our Club being drawn with Abu Dhabi Golf Club and Emirates Golf Federation. We’re excited about the upcoming season, with our first match scheduled for Wednesday 22nd November in Abu Dhabi and hopefully our second on Wednesday 13th December at Jumeirah Golf Estates. Best of luck to all our participating ladies!

RULES NIGHT: KNOWLEDGE IS POWER

A recent Rules Evening series brought our ladies together to discuss golf rules. These sessions serve as a valuable resource, especially for new lady golfers, offering a better understanding of the game’s intricacies. A big shoutout to Adam, Kieran, Kian, and Ed for their contributions. Whether it was the rules or the promise of free drinks at Ladies Night in the Crafty Fox afterward, it was fantastic to see a strong turnout.

MONTHLY MEDAL RAFFLE FOR A WORTHY CAUSE

Both the Men’s Club Captain and I have introduced the Monthly Medal Raffle tradition to raise funds for the Junior Colleague Fund. This fund supports our hardworking colleagues who make our golfing experience exceptional. Congratulations to Aaron Yasaties, the winner of my bottle of champagne. I hope it added a sparkle to his day, whether on or off the course.

THE LUCKIEST BALL ON EARTH

The Luckiest Ball competition in October saw our very own Tanya Harrisson shine. Tanya won Nearest to the Pin on holes four and 17, along with the ladies’ medal. Her victory earned her a spot in the Luckiest Ball final competition being held at Jumeirah Golf Estates on Saturday 4th November. We will be cheering her on in the hope she plays with the pros on Tuesday 14th November. Good luck, Tanya!

ACKNOWLEDGING ACTS OF KINDNESS

We’re incredibly grateful to the wonderful ladies who care for us at the Club. Special thanks to Joy, who made Philippa Stumbles’ birthday extra special by decorating her golf cart. These small gestures remind us why we love our Club so much. Unfortunately, I was not able to attend as was golfing in Greece, but the Crafty Fox team looked after her well. If you have never been to Costa Navarino in Greece, this is a must golfing destination. Look it up, better still go there – you won’t be disappointed.

EXCITING GOLF DESTINATIONS

Speaking of golf destinations, five of our ladies are eagerly anticipating the Jumeirah Golf Estates’ trip to Oman at the end of October. We will be playing two rounds at Al Mouj Golf, a World Top 100 course. If you haven’t been to Oman, it’s another incredible destination right on our doorstep.

SCRATCH CAPTAIN VS LADY CAPTAIN CHALLENGE

As Lady Captain, I recently took on a challenge of epic proportions. I dared to challenge our Scratch Captain Carl, who, coincidentally, happens to be my husband, to a thrilling contest of Mixed Pairs Better Ball Match Play. I lent Carl four brilliant lady golfers in exchange for 4 of his scratch team players.

After a fiercely competitive battle, the result was a draw, with each team securing two games apiece. In the spirit of the game and to keep the excitement alive, there was an opportunity for each pair to chase a half-point on the remaining holes of their matches.

With bated breath, and some score fixing, it appeared that the Scratch Captain’s team managed to grasp victory by a margin of, well, just half a point. The exact victors shall remain a mystery, and we’ll leave it to your imagination. All we can say is, golf was the true winner on that thrilling day. Thanks to all the guys and girls for joining in!

GET WELL SOON

Recently, we’ve missed the presence of two of our regular players, Sile McIlroy and Zia Hosking, who are recovering from surgeries due to injuries. We send our best wishes for a speedy recovery and hope to see them back on the course soon. In the meantime, take good care of yourselves!

A GRAND FINALE AWAITS: DP WORLD TOUR CHAMPIONSHIP

As we wrap up this edition of Club Life, there’s a sense of great anticipation in the air. We’re gearing up for Jumeirah Golf Estates to host some of the best golfers in the world at the DP World Tour Championship. Over the past few months, we’ve watched the Earth Course undergo a transformation as the chalets and stands rise, setting the stage for a world-class golfing spectacle. We’ve even had a front-row seat to witness the notorious rough! Rumour has it that it has developed an insatiable appetite for golf balls, much to the dismay of our members. So, let’s all keep a close eye on our shots and enjoy the now walking only on Earth challenge! May the best golfers — and golf balls — prevail!

A FOND FAREWELL AND BEST WISHES

As this will be my final piece for Club Life, I want to express my deep appreciation for the opportunity to serve as Lady Captain. It has been a true honour. I wish Anna Retha Rafferty all the best in her new role as Lady Captain in January 2024. Remember I’m always here to offer my support and assistance.

MESSAGE CLUB CAPTAIN’S

GENE SUNG CHA CLUB CAPTAIN, DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

DUBAI CREEK, THE 2023 SCRATCH LEAGUE WINNERS!

Congratulations go to John Fellingham and our Scratch Team who have been crowned 2022/2023 UAE Scratch League winners following a convincing 5 ½ to 2 ½ victory over Trump International Golf Club. Faced with a stern test from a Trump side that had earned a maximum 36 points from their previous matches, the experience of the Creek team shone through.

On the first day we nearly saw a clean sweep, 4-0, as the Irish duo of John-Paul Fitzgerald and Michael McGinley showed great spirit to fight back from 2 down only to see their opponents make back-to-back birdies on 16 & 17 which halted their momentum.

Taking a 3-1 lead to Trump proved Captain, John Fellingham, was wise to use home field advantage to build a lead rather than to leave work to be done on the final day. The team then used the confidence built on day one to secure an impressive 2 ½ to 1 ½ away win on day two.

The infallible pairing of Max Burrow and Bayhaan Lakdawala led from the front and there was a myriad of birdies made behind them. None more impressive than the slick up and down made by Bilel Belaid on the short par four, 12th hole, for an important half that kept him and partner Obi Ayton in the driver’s seat.

This year’s win means that in the 10-year existence of the Scratch League, Dubai Creek have won an astonishing 7 times. Quite incredible!

Representing the Creek this year included John Fellingham, Michael McGinley, Adonis Nasr, John-Paul Fitzgerald, Nathan Seldon, Edoardo Galeppini, Bayhaan Lakdawala, Miki Mirza, Bilel Belaid, Obediah Ayton, Max Burrow, Emanuele Galeppini.

DUBAI CREEK CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP

The Club Championship took place on Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd October. On the gents’ side, Bayhaan Lakdawala was crowned Club Champion for the fourth year in a row and sixth time overall with excellent scores of 73 and 71. Dino Varkey was the Runner-up, and Obidiah Ayton was placed third.

For the ladies, Glory Xavier was the winner with scores at 79, 77. It was Glory’s third time winning the Club Championship. Samana D’ Silva was the Runner-up and Bea Galeppini took third place. Congratulation to both Bayhaan and Glory.

CAPTAIN’S TRIP

The Inaugural Captain’s Trip took place from Sunday 1st – Thursday 5th October. 12 Members travelled to Bangkok, Thailand. We stayed in Grand Hyatt, one of the best hotels in all of Bangkok situated near many shopping malls and restaurants. We played four of the best golf courses near Bangkok, Riverdale Golf Club, Thai Country Club, Alpine Golf Club and Royal Gems Golf Club. Courses were in superb conditions.

I would like to thank all the Members who made the trip, Anish Bhatia, Shankar Balasubramanian, Shan Haq, Russell James, Farad Lakdawala, Jehangir Makhdum, Usman Mastan, Amit Pateria, David Taggart, Arun Tulli, and Vivian Verma. It was such a fun trip with many memories that will last a lifetime.

NATIONS CUP

On Sunday 29th October, 24 teams from 17 countries and 96 players participated in the Nations Cup on the Championship Course.

With a four aggregate Stableford points to the determine the bragging rights for the best golfing nation at the Club, it was a fantastic day for all. Well done to all players. It was a brilliant day!

MESSAGE LADY CAPTAIN’S

SHIBA WAHID

LADY CAPTAIN, DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

It brings me immense joy to share the latest happenings and upcoming events at our esteemed Club. It’s been an eventful period, and we’re gearing up for a fantastic season of golf. The last quarter has been full of some very great events, and it’s been hard to decide which events I enjoyed the most!

ICC SEASON BEGINS

SEASON OPENER BY PAIRS INTERNATIONAL AT DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

On Friday 20th September, our course was graced by the presence of golfing talents from across the globe for the Season Opener by Pairs International. Paula and Joy Lirio set the course on fire, shooting an impressive 47 Stableford points to clinch victory. Just one point behind them was the dynamic duo of Ms. Kim and S.E. Lim, showcasing the fierce competition and camaraderie that makes golf such a remarkable sport.

The ICC season is right around the corner, with the kick-off slated for November. The exact dates will be announced soon. The ICC AGM meeting in October brought together teams and drew the path for the League. Dubai Creek will be playing against formidable opponents, including Montgomery and Els Club, in pursuit of the ultimate glory, with the finals scheduled for April 2024. I am incredibly excited to see what this current ICC Season has in store for us. As always, I know our Club is enthusiastic and completely ready for what will be a kicker of a season.

CLASH OF THE TITANS AT SAADIYAT BEACH GOLF CLUB

On Wednesday 4th October, a thrilling showdown took place at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club in Abu Dhabi. Clubs from across the region competed for supremacy, but the host Club, Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, emerged as the victor, taking a well-deserved lead.

CREEK CLEAN-UP DRIVE FOR A GREENER ENVIRONMENT

As responsible stewards of the environment, we organized a Creek clean-up drive on the Tuesday 10th October. I was thrilled to see the level of commitment our Club had towards keeping our course spotless. As a “Dubai-kid”, I know the importance of, and the effort taken to preserve and maintain natural beauty in our City. The Dubai Creek Golf Club and Maintenance Team did such an excellent job at keeping our course spotless and to a level of perfection daily that I was glad our Members had a chance to roll up our sleeves and help out!

2023 SCRATCH LEAGUE CHAMPIONS

A heartfelt congratulations to John Fellingham and our very own Scratch team who were crowned the 2022/2023 UAE Scratch Team winners. Their remarkable victory over Trump International Golf Club is a testament to their skill and dedication.

PARK HYATT LADIES MONTHLY MEDAL

Wednesday 18th October 2023

In October, the Park Hyatt Ladies Monthly Medal was fiercely contested. Mego Han secured the top spot with an impressive net score of (71). Division A was won by Yulia Golubava with a net score of (73), while Kiyono Taniuchi clinched Division B with a net score of (74).

OMA MONTHLY MEDAL: THE LUCKIEST BALL ON EARTH

The OMA Monthly Medal brought luck to Alexey Leshchenko, who secured the overall medal with a remarkable net score. I’m delighted to inform you that from Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Alexey Leshchenko, and I, for the ladies’ division, were among the qualifiers for the UAE Grand Finals.

As we step into the heart of the golfing season, I can’t help but feel the excitement that courses through our Club. I look forward to seeing you on the greens and sharing many more memorable moments. Until then, let’s keep swinging and making Dubai Creek a shining beacon in the world of golf.

EMIRATES UAE PGA PRO-AM

Louis Gaugham dominated the second event of the Emirates PGA season at Dubai Creek, finishing an impressive (-6) under par. Our team, led by Hassine Wallani, me, Mini Philip and Beatrice emerged victorious with a collective score of (-20) under par.

MESSAGE CLUB CAPTAIN’S

FRANCOIS BOSCH

CLUB CAPTAIN, YAS LINKS ABU DHABI

YAS LINKS CHARITY GOLF DAY

We had a successful Links Charity Golf Day on the Saturday 14th October. This event has become one of our flagship events on our golfing calendar where we as golfers have the privilege to give back during this Charity event. It was the third year that Yas Links Abu Dhabi in association with Marriott Business Council presented the Links Charity Golf Day with all proceeds from the Silent and Live Auctions going to Operation Smile.

Operation Smile UAE provides free surgery to repair cleft lip, cleft palate, and other facial anomalies to children around the world. The sad part is that every three minutes, it is estimated that a child is born with a cleft lip or cleft palate. Children born with a cleft lip or cleft palate are often unable to eat, speak, socialise, or smile.

With the help of medical volunteers and generous supporters, like the Links Charity Golf Day, Operation Smile provides free surgeries for children around the world to heal their smiles and transform their lives. In as little as 45 minutes and for as little as AED 880, Operation Smile can provide life-changing surgery for a child in need.

This year our team raised AED 113,760; I would like to thank everyone that contributed to this great event. Please do not miss out next year and join us in raising even more money and helping Operation Smile to change children’s lives, leaving more children with happy smiles.

VYDER CUP

Our first Vyder Cup inter-Club event that was planned for end of September had to be postponed. This was obviously unfortunate, but weather conditions did not play along. The new dates have been finalised and we can again look forward to this exciting two-day inter-Club event played on a similar basis as the Ryder Cup.

Please diarise Saturday 4th and Saturday 11th November, the first day will be played at Yas Links Abu Dhabi and the following weekend at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club followed by prize giving and dinner at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club.

MEMBERS VS COLLEAGUES

On Sunday 22nd October, we had our first Members vs Colleagues Golf Competition. Must say, I really enjoyed the day, with lots of fun and a great opportunity for our Members to meet our colleagues who are always busy running behind the scenes to support our Members.

I was impressed to see how many of our colleagues were keen golfers and how much they loved the game. Congratulations to the Colleagues Team who were unmatched and won the day by some margin with a great score of eight versus two. I am reaching out to our Members to join us next year in this annual event, we should aim to have a least 50 players on each side.

THANK YOU TO OUR COLLEAGUES

With this opportunity and on behalf of the Yas Links Members and guests, I want to thank our Operations, Agronomy and Food & Beverage Teams, our Colleagues, for all their hard work and dedication during the past year.

A lot of your services goes unnoticed, but we want to acknowledge your contribution, from when we enter the facilities, to Bag Drop, then Reception, to the Proshop, to the Locker Rooms, the Driving Range, Golf Academy, to the golf course and to the restaurants, until we leave through the gate. Every one of you contribute to ensure our gate-to-gate experience is truly memorable.

A REFLECTION OF MY CAPTAINCY

This Club Life edition will be my last contribution with my Captaincy coming to an end in December 2023. I would like to reflect in closing and share some thoughts following a very exciting year as Club Captain.

I remain proud of our Agronomy team under the leadership of Corey, Gregg and their support colleagues. They have done a fantastic job this past year, including various upgrades that are not always visible, and maintained our golf course in championship condition all year round. The feedback we received from the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship in January was extremely encouraging with many players referring to Yas Links Abu Dhabi having the best greens, fairways, and tee boxes on the DP World Tour. All compliments go to the Agronomy team.

This year was the year of transformation for Viya Golf to get in sync with what the Club can offer and to realise its full potential to grow our membership. Julian and his team have done well and have established a fantastic foundation to build on. Our Members can certainly look forward to interesting times ahead with various changes in the pipeline that will add immense value to everyone’s golfing experience at Yas Links Abu Dhabi.

Earlier this year we started with the shotgun starts on our sponsors days and larger competitions. We received positive feedback, especially with everyone coming together afterwards to enjoy the good spirit and camaraderie between Members during the prize giving dinners, allowing everyone to socialise again, as we did in the past.

Finally, to our Members, and speaking on behalf of Leonie and myself, it has been an honour and privilege to act as your Club Captain during 2023. We thoroughly enjoyed the experience as we were able to interact with our Members, listening and sometimes disagreeing, but in the end, we had many lessons learned and worked to be stronger together. Moving forward, all the best and congratulations in advance to our incoming Club Captains, Deirdre Dudeney and Damien Ward, who will start their terms on Monday 1st January 2024. Our Members can look forward to a great year under their captaincies and most capable hands.

MESSAGE LADY CAPTAIN’S

LEONIE SULLIVAN

LADY CAPTAIN, YAS LINKS ABU DHABI

On the 20th of September, as the hot and humid summer months gave way to the much-anticipated cooler weather, the Yas Ladies enthusiastically kicked off the latter part of the season with a delightful pairs 6/6/6 format.

The highlight of our Ladies’ events over the past two months was undoubtedly the Pink Ladies event we hosted on Wednesday 11th October 2023. Extending a warm welcome to participants from Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Abu Dhabi City Golf Club, and Emirates Golf Club to Yas Links Abu Dhabi, we dedicated the day to Breast Cancer awareness.

It turned out to be a truly wonderful day for everyone involved, and the visiting players relished the unique experience of playing at Yas Links Abu Dhabi. A special shout out to Organic Foods & Cafe (OFC) for their generous contribution of Goodie bags for each player, a thoughtful touch that added to the day’s success.

Congratulations to the victorious team of our Pink Ladies Texas Scramble, Lisa De Paro, Sabine McMahon, Beatrice Del Campo, Ana Basagoiti. A round of applause to the Emirates Golf Club team for their impressive second-place finish, Danni Tong, Maria Dunkel, Oksana Masoner, and Madina Adgiroshidova. And a big congratulations to the third-place team, Anne Lange, Yvette Campbell, Yolanda Harrison, Alicia Suwaina.

On Saturday 14th October 2023, we had the pleasure of hosting the annual Yas Links Charity Day, and it was truly a fabulous occasion. I’m thrilled to share that we successfully raised over AED 114,000 for Operation Smile, a charity dedicated to providing surgeries for children with cleft lip and palate. A heartfelt thank you to the Marriott group for their generous contributions, which significantly enhanced the event.

With more than 80 players enjoying a round of golf, and a considerable turnout for the live auction and dinner that followed, the day was filled with camaraderie and support for a wonderful cause.

Looking ahead, the ladies have an exciting line-up of golf tournaments to look forward to in the remaining months of the year, featuring events like Vegas Golf, Foursomes, Pairs Shambles, 3 Clubs & A Putter, Camel & Duck, and many more.

Save the date for our much-anticipated annual Christmas Texas Scramble event on Wednesday 6th December 2023 and join us in wrapping up the 2023 ladies golfing season with a festive 'Make Rudolph’ format on Tuesday 12th December 2023.

MESSAGE LADY CAPTAIN’S

JOYCE JOMAN

LADY CAPTAIN, SAADIYAT BEACH GOLF CLUB

Our golfing journey through the latter part of the season is in full swing. As we kicked off our Thursday ladies’ mornings postsummer, the lingering warmth and humidity prompted us to opt for easy going ninehole formats. As I always emphasise, the camaraderie is just as crucial as the game itself. It was a delight to reconnect with all of you after the summer hiatus.

In the realm of expat life, predictability is a rarity, and this summer saw us bidding farewell to several cherished Members. Regrettably, my tenure as Lady Captain is concluding prematurely as well, I’m embarking on a Caribbean adventure to follow my husband’s path. While a return to the UAE remains uncertain, it does mark the conclusion of my role as Lady Captain.

On a positive note, I’m excited to announce that the capable Helene Simmons, my wonderful Vice Captain, will be assuming the reins for the remainder of the year. Helene, a dedicated and loyal Saadiyat Member, is brimming with fresh ideas to further elevate the Ladies section. Thank you, Helene, for your incredible support as Vice-Captain, and I extend my heartfelt wishes for a captaincy year filled with as much joy as I have experienced.

The farewell organized in my honour was a delightful surprise, changing the expected Super Bowl to Saadiyat for a lively Texas Scramble with all ladies wearing orange, was a fun last round and so unexpected and even more appreciated. The delightful lunch and the many presents I received made

me even more emotional. Let the pictures capture the sheer joy of the occasion.

As this marks my final message as Lady Captain, I want to express sincere gratitude to the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club colleagues for their unwavering support and assistance in making Thursdays immensely enjoyable.

I am optimistic that the Ladies section will continue to flourish, evident in the influx of new Members. To all the ladies, I encourage active participation in weekend events as well. Our group is the fastest growing and let us showcase that enthusiasm on weekends too. Keep relishing the game, and please extend the same support to Helene as you have generously given me. Thank you!

SAADIYAT LADIES SWING INTO ACTION: A PINK AFFAIR FOR A WORTHY CAUSE

On Thursday 5th October, the golf course was ablaze with hues of pink as 69 enthusiastic ladies gathered for the Pink ladies Golf event. The air was charged with excitement as the embarked on a thrilling Texas Scramble with a shotgun start. The event drew participants not only from Dubai but also from the American Women’s Network (AWN) and various other clubs, creating a vibrant and diverse atmosphere.

As the golf course witnessed a parade of fabulously dressed ladies and creatively adorned buggies, it was evident that this was more than just a golf tournament, it was a celebration of solidarity and support. Following the spirited competition, an exquisite lunch awaited the participants in the beautifully decorated restaurant.

The highlight of the post-tournament luncheon was the insightful presentation by Dr. Summia Zaher from Danat al Emarat Hospital for Women and Children. Dr. Zaher delved into crucial topics such as breast cancer, emphasising the importance of early detection and self-assessment. The audience was captivated by the informative session, shedding light on a cause close to their hearts.

Another stand-out moment was the Raffle, where ladies had the opportunity to purchase tickets for a chance to win fantastic prizes. Graciously donated by businesses such as Barry’s Gym, BB’s Social Dining, Coco & Shy, Eyemazy, Harmony Dental Clinic, Jysk Galleria Mall, Miracles Wellness, Prosports International, Rosewood Hotel & Residences, Saadiyat

Rotanta Resort & Villas, Sisters Beauty Lounge, Soule Soups, Valgerand Nordic Grill, Vinci Energies & Nuvia and Viya Golf. These prizes added an extra layer of excitement to the event.

In a heart-warming gesture, the Thursday Ladies, buoyed by the generosity of the community, were able to contribute AED 6,250 to the Al Jalilia Foundation for Breast Cancer Research. Beyond the competition and camaraderie, this event showcased the power of unity in making a meaningful impact on a cause that resonates deeply with many. The Pink Ladies Golf Event stands not only as a testament to the passion for golf but also as a symbol of compassion and collective strength in supporting breast cancer research.

Sparkling Celebrations

WITH DUBAI GOLF

Turkey Takeaway

Take the stress out of the kitchen this festive season with our Festive Turkey Takeaway services, available across our Clubs, complete with a host of classic Trimmings to make your festive meal just to your liking.

DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

Available from 19th - 25th December

dubaicreekresort.com/festive

JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES

Available from 24th November - 30th December

dubaigolf.com/jge/festive

EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

Available from 24th November - 30th December

dubaigolf.com/egc/festive

Festive Parties

Get your group of mates, sports team or corporate crew together for an unrivalled end-of-year party at Dubai’s ultimate entertainment destination. Enjoy two hours of game play, free-flowing beverages, a delicious selection of festive platters and so much more as you get ready for the festive season ahead.

TOPGOLF DUBAI

Available from 1st December - 24th December

topgolfdubai.ae/festive

Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration

EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

Sunday 3rd December | 7pm - 8pm

Get into the festive spirit as you soak up the atmosphere an enjoy a live choir performance, your favourite Christmas classics and a glass or two of mulled wine.

After the annual Christmas tree lighting takes place, why not stay back as we continue with the Club’s traditional Christmas make mixing.

dubaigolf.com/egc/festive

DUBAI CREEK GOLF & YACHT CLUB

Friday 8th December | 6.30pm onwards

Mark the social start of the festive holiday season as we light up our Christmas tree in the piazza. Sing along to traditional Christmas Carols whilst enjoying roasted chestnuts and other festive treats.

dubaicreekresort.com/festive

JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES

Sunday 10th December | 5pm - 8pm

Join us on the Earth Terrace as you enjoy a host of Christmas carols and live entertainment, and a host of children’s activities before you mark the evening with the annual Christmas Tree lighting display to mark the start of the festive season.

dubaigolf.com/jge/festive

Festive Quiz Nights

SPIKE BAR, EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

Monday 4th, 11tth & 18th December | 7.30pm - 10pm

Get your team of eggheads together for a festive twist on the longest running quiz night in Dubai, inclusive of Christmas-themed roast and mulled wine for a chance to win a selected Turkey Takeaway with all the trimmings worth AED 730.

dubaigolf.com/egc/festive

Festive Jazz Fridays

JONES THE GROCER, EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

Friday 8th & 15th December; 7.30pm - 10.30pm

A twist on a classic evening, for AED 199 per person, enjoy two hours of unlimited grape and a cheese board with a couple of seasonal treats thrown in, including mulled wine and a Christmas jazz band to get you in the festive spirit.

dubaigolf.com/egc/festive

Evening Festive Brunch

BOARDWALK, DUBAI CREEK

Sunday 24th December | 7pm - 10pm

Spend the night before Christmas on the deck at Boardwalk with our live duo band and enjoy our festive-style plated evening brunch.

dubaicreekresort.com/festive

Christmas Eve Barbecue

LAKEVIEW, DUBAI CREEK

Sunday 24th December | 8pm - 1am

Indulge in our festive BBQ alongside our live duo performers with stunning views of the creek for another Christmas Eve to remember.

dubaicreekresort.com/festive

Christmas Eve At QD’s

QD’S, DUBAI CREEK

Sunday 24th December | 5pm - 3am

Let our DJ get you in the mood whilst enjoying our à la carte menu or a selected set menu.

dubaicreekresort.com/festive

Festive Roast

SPIKE BAR, EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

Sunday 24th December | 12pm - 3pm

On the day before Christmas, join us to enjoy a succulent festive-themed Roast buffet whilst enjoy your favourite tunes from our live performers that the whole family can take advantage of to get you in the festive spirit.

dubaigolf.com/egc/festive

All-Day Christmas Festivities

CARINE, EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

Sunday 24th & Monday 25th December

Celebrate Christmas with an award-winning à la carte festive menu this Christmas Eve and Christmas Day as you settle into the glittering festive atmosphere with live entertainment.

dubaigolf.com/egc/festive

A Mediterranean Christmas BOARDWALK,

DUBAI CREEK

Monday 25th December 12.30pm - 4pm

Celebrate Christmas Day on the deck and enjoy a traditional Christmas brunch buffet with all the trimmings with classic Mediterranean dishes and live band. Our fully supervised children’s area will have a host of activities to keep our little guests entertained, plus a special visit from Santa.

dubaicreekresort.com/festive

An Italian Christmas Eve

Christmas On The Terrace

LAKEVIEW, DUBAI CREEK

Monday 25th December

12.30pm - 4pm

Spend Christmas Day on the terrace overlooking the Dubai Creek Championship golf course. Enjoy a delicious buffet featuring all your festive favourites, making your Christmas Day feel like home, whilst listening to our live band. Children can also be kept entertained with our supervised kids area.

dubaicreekresort.com/festive

Christmas Day At QD’s

QD’S, DUBAI CREEK

Monday 25th December 5pm - 3am

Enjoy a relaxing Christmas Day at QD’s with a live DJ and all your à la carte favourites.

dubaicreekresort.com/festive

BUSSOLA, JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES

Sunday 24th December | 1pm - 4pm

Embrace the holiday spirit the Italian way and enjoy a delightful selection of authentic Italian dishes whilst relaxing to the sounds of live music before you get a visit from the big man himself.

dubaigolf.com/jge/festive

Post-Christmas Festivities

CIELO SKY LOUNGE, DUBAI CREEK

Monday 25th December 4pm - 6pm

Head to the rooftop for the social brunch after-party and enjoy happy hours with our resident DJ.

dubaicreekresort.com/festive

Christmas Day Brunch On The Earth Terrace

JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES

Monday 25th December | 12pm – 4pm

Get together with friends and family and celebrate a Christmas Day to remember at the Jumeirah Golf Estates Christmas Day Brunch.

Enjoy a traditional buffet, festive live music and plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained including craft and baking stations, a toddlers’ play area, fun park and face painting. And it wouldn’t be Christmas Day without a meet-and-greet with the big man himself.

dubaigolf.com/jge/festive

Christmas Brunch, Topgolf-Style

TOPGOLF DUBAI

Monday 25th December

Enjoy the most wonderful time of the year at Topgolf Dubai’s Christmas Brunch. Enjoy beverages on arrival and dig into traditional Christmas platter bay-side with more unlimited select beverages throughout the afternoon. Sing along to a live DJ with festive music and take advantage of a fantastic range of kid’s activities to keep the whole family in high spirits throughout the day.

And of course, it wouldn’t be Christmas Day without a meet-and-greet with the big man himself!

topgolfdubai.ae/festive

Christmas Day Brunch

SPIKE BAR, EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

Monday 25th December | 12pm – 3pm

It’s a Christmas to remember at the ever-popular Spike Bar Christmas Brunch when you get together with friends and family. Enjoy good tidings with a traditional buffet, festive live music and plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained. And it wouldn’t be Christmas Day without a meet-and-greet with the big man himself.

dubaigolf.com/egc/festive

Christmas Day Lunch

JONES THE GROCER, EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

Monday 25th December | 12pm – 3pm

Overlooking iconic golf course views, enjoy a sharing-style Christmas Day celebration as you sip on mulled wine and enjoy a host of kids activities with a visit from Santa Claus.

dubaigolf.com/egc/festive

New Year’s Eve All-White Party

BOARDWALK, DUBAI CREEK

Sunday 31st December | 8pm - 1am

Bid farewell to 2023 in style under the stars, with the ‘All White Party’. Enjoy live entertainment on the deck with a five-course set menu and front seats to our very own fireworks.

dubaicreekresort.com/festive

Retro New Year’s Eve

QD’S, DUBAI CREEK

Sunday 31st December | 8pm - 2am

Boxing Day Quiz

JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES

Tuesday 26th December | 7pm onwards

Keep the festivities and enjoy a special Boxing Day Quiz in the Ballroom, hosted by community Quiz-master, Robert Duce. It’s the perfect way to cap off the Christmas spirit and get ready for the New Year.

dubaigolf.com/jge/festive

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Dubai’s ultimate Creekside venue. Discover a special Retro-themed party with a decadent buffet with live cooking stations. Enjoy live entertainment alongside our resident DJ and the best views of our fireworks.

dubaicreekresort.com/festive

New Year’s Eve On The Terrace

LAKEVIEW, DUBAI CREEK

Sunday 31st December | 8pm - 1am

Kick start your New Year on the terrace at Lakeview with live music and DJ, coupled with a delicious buffet, whilst enjoying the fireworks over the golf course.

dubaicreekresort.com/festive

New Year’s Eve Dinner

BUSSOLA, JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES

Sunday 31st December | 7pm - 10.30pm onwards

Start the evening with a welcome drink and a glass of prosecco, followed by an exquisite 4-course menu, including shared antipasti, your choice of one primi and one secondi, and delectable dolci to share, all thoughtfully paired with three glasses of wine.

Join the festivities at 10:30pm on the Palm Tree Court and experience the club’s breathtaking fireworks display.

dubaigolf.com/jge/festive

Moulin Rogue New Year’s Eve Party

CARINE, EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

Sunday 31st December | 8pm onwards

Ring in 2024 with carine’s Moulin Rouge New Year’s Eve party. Enjoy live entertainment including resident DJ, and savour Chef Izu’s favourites from the festive specials à la carte menu. Charge your glasses and grab a front row seat of the Emirates Golf Club fireworks to ensure you welcome the New Year in a memorable fashion.

dubaigolf.com/egc/festive

New

Year’s Eve Party

TOPGOLF DUBAI

Sunday 31st December | 10pm onwards

There’s no better time to dress to impress and join us to marvel at Dubai’s iconic views on an iconic night. Enjoy a live DJ throughout the evening, a delicious buffet to feast on and unlimited selected soft & house beverages for one big party (only applicable for bays on Level 2 and 3).

You’re not going to want to miss out on the fireworks show extravaganza to ring in the new year and start 2024 with a bang!

topgolfdubai.ae/festive

New

Year’s Eve

Gala On The Lawns

EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

Sunday 31st December | 8pm - 1am

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style at Emirates Golf Club. Ring in 2024 in style with our famous New Year’s Eve gala dinner featuring an array of live entertainment and fireworks. Dress to impress and enjoy our live band from 8pm with Michael Jackson and Tina Turner tribute acts, closing with our resident DJ to keep you dancing the night away.

Enjoy bubbly on arrival, an open bar on house beverages all night long and fireworks to mark the start of the new year.

dubaigolf.com/egc/festive

New Year’s Eve Gala At The Courtyard

JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES

Sunday 31st December | 7pm - 2am

Ring in 2024 in style at Jumeirah Golf Estates with our gala dinner featuring an array of live entertainment, an ABBA Tribute Act and a live fireworks show.

Enjoy a cocktail reception in the courtyard from 7pm, with dinner service from 8pm.

dubaigolf.com/jge/festive

New Year’s Day Barbecue Brunch

LAKEVIEW, DUBAI CREEK

Monday 1st January | 1pm - 4pm

Join us on the Lakeview terrace for the ultimate New Year’s Day Barbecue Brunch. Enjoy all your favourites and more whilst listening to our laid back live band.

dubaicreekresort.com/festive

New Year’s Day Lunch

BOARDWALK, DUBAI CREEK

Monday 1st January | 12.30pm - 4pm

Soak up the sun from the Boardwalk’s infamous deck as you welcome the first day of the year in style. Dine à la carte on a fine Sunday afternoon.

dubaicreekresort.com/festive

Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration

Mark the beginning of the festive season with friends and family as you enjoy an evening of carols, kids activities and a delicious festive spread with all the trimmings before you witness the Christmas tree come to life during the Tree Lighting celebration.

SAADIYAT BEACH GOLF CLUB

Sunday 3rd December | 6pm - 10pm

YAS LINKS ABU DHABI

Saturday 9th December | 6pm - 7pm

YAS ACRES GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Friday 15th December | 6pm onwards

Festive Turkey Takeaway

Christmas Day Brunches

Monday 25th December | 12.30pm - 4pm

Enjoy an afternoon dining on your seasonal favourites, delectable international and contemporary dishes whilst sipping away on three hours of unlimited selected beverages as you listen to a host of festive live entertainment. It’s the most magical afternoon for friends and family to enjoy.

SAADIYAT BEACH GOLF CLUB

+971 (056) 660 8780 | dining.sbgc@viyagolf.com

YAS LINKS ABU DHABI

+971 (02) 404 3077 | dining.ylad@viyagolf.com

YAS ACRES GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Get your seasonal plans sorted when you order one of our mouth-watering Turkey Takeaways. Enjoy a roasted Turkey with Apple Bread Stuffing, caramelised Chestnuts, Cranberry Sauce and two side dishes.

Starting at AED 449 PER TAKEAWAY

SAADIYAT BEACH GOLF CLUB

Available from 21st November - 29th December

+971 (056) 660 8780 | dining.sbgc@viyagolf.com

YAS LINKS ABU DHABI

Available from 21st November - 31st December

+971 (02) 404 3077 | dining.ylad@viyagolf.com

YAS ACRES GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Available from 21st November - 29th December

+971 (050) 757 4808 | dining.yagcc@viyagolf.com

Sparkling Celebrations

+971 (050) 757 4808 | dining.yagcc@viyagolf.com WITH VIYA GOLF

New Year’s Day

Start 2024 right when you curb your cravings and enjoy an extravagant morning with Viya Golf. Whether you want to continue the celebrations with our New Year’s Day Brunch on the Lawns with Yas Links Abu Dhabi or feast on a sumptuous breakfast with Roots Bar & Kitchen, we’re here to make sure your new year starts off right, inclusive of a host of family-friendly entertainment.

YAS LINKS ABU DHABI

NEW YEAR’S DAY BRUNCH

Monday 1st January | 12.30pm - 4pm

+971 (02) 404 3077 | dining.ylad@viyagolf.com

YAS ACRES GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

NEW YEAR’S DAY BREAKFAST

Monday 1st January | Available from 7am - 11am

+971 (050) 757 4808 | dining.yagcc@viyagolf.com

A Michael Bublé

New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner

Saadiyat Beach Golf Club

Welcome the new year in style as you dress up to the nines and feast on a delectable seasonal buffet, free flowing beverages with a sparkling toast at midnight as you dance the night away during a memorable Michael Bublé tribute performance.

+971 (056) 660 8780 | dining.sbgc@viyagolf.com

New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner

Yas Links Abu Dhabi

Celebrate the new year on the Hickory’s Terrace as you take in the stunning Links views as you indulge in a delicious festive buffet with live stations and sip away on unlimited selected beverages whilst you savour a host of live entertainment and a fireworks extravaganza as you welcome the new year.

+971 (02) 404 3077 | dining.ylad@viyagolf.com

CURRY FIESTA KASTURI, JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES

EVERY SATURDAY

12pm - 10pm

Spice up your Saturday and embark on a flavourful culinary adventure in Kasturi. Savour India’s decadent curries with our 3-course sharing menu.

AED 150 PER PERSON

dubaigolf.com/kasturi

LADIES NIGHT

SPIKE BAR, EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

EVERY THURSDAY 6.30pm - 10pm

Sip on five Bubbly Brut’s or Aperol Spritz for only AED 50 per lady for the perfect midweek night out with the girls.

dubaigolf.com/spike

PLATED BRUNCH BOARDWALK, DUBAI CREEK

EVERY SUNDAY 1pm - 4pm

Relax overlooking iconic views during this unique al fresco dining experience. Enjoy a sharing-style brunch as you savour the charming ambiance and serenaded by live entertainment.

Starting at AED 250 PER PERSON

dubaicreekresort.com

BRUNCHISSIMO

BUSSOLA, JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES

EVERY SUNDAY 1pm - 4pm

Savour an exquisite selection of your favourite Italian dishes as you enjoy a host of live entertainment and kids activities to cap your weekend off right.

Starting at AED 110 PER PERSON

dubaigolf.com/bussola

JAZZ FRIDAYS JONES THE GROCER, EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

EVERY FRIDAY 7.30pm onwards

Start your weekend right sipping on your favourite grape selection whilst listening to smooth jazz for only AED 199 per person, inclusive of selected cheese board.

dubaigolf.com/jones

HAPPY HOUR

THE BLACK ROOM, YAS ACRES GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

EVERY MONDAY

6pm - 8pm

Kick-off the week right and enjoy 50% off your favourite selected house beverages and 25% on selected premium spirits by the bottle.

viyagolf.com/theblackroom

GOLFER’S LUNCH HICKORY’S, YAS LINKS ABU DHABI

AVAILABLE DAILY 12pm - 4pm

Come off the golf course and dive into our favourite post-round bites to cap off your playing Links experience right for only AED 89 per person, inclusive of one selected beverage.

viyagolf.com/hickorys

SURF & TURF HAWKSBILL, SAADIYAT BEACH GOLF CLUB

EVERY SATURDAY 5pm - 9pm

Indulge in your favourite grilled seafood and platters from the grill for only AED 225, ideal for up to three guests.

viyagolf.com/hawksbill

AT VIYA GOLF WHAT’S ON

THE BREAKFAST CLUB

ROOTS BAR & KITCHEN, YAS ACRES GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

EVERY THURSDAY 8am - 11am

Available exclusively to Country Club Members and Yas Acres residents, get to know other ladies within the community as you dine on a tasty breakfast.

Starting at AED 40 PER PERSON

viyagolf.com/roots

TACO TUESDAYS

HICKORY’S, YAS LINKS ABU DHABI

EVERY TUESDAY 11am - 10.30pm

Dig into Pulled Beef, Chicken or Shrimp soft shell Tacos to curb your cravings as you enjoy buy-one-get-one-free on Margaritas.

viyagolf.com/hickorys

NOW OPEN

NOW OPEN

Hop up to Level Three and join us in our exciting new Bangin’ British Gastropub at Topgolf Dubai, where traditional dishes meet contemporary taste.

TOURNAMENT RESULTS

DUBAI DUTY FREE SENIORS CUP

Saturday 2nd September 2023

Emirates Golf Club’s Faldo Course played host to the 25th Dubai Duty Free Seniors Cup on Saturday 2nd September. 91 players competed across four different categories with the overall winner being crowned Dubai Duty Free Seniors Cup Champion.

Overall scoring on the day was of a very high standard and despite the hot and humid weather there were some notable scores amongst the prize winners, but the overall winner, scoring an exceptional score of 44 points, was Emirates Golf Club’s Parvez Ahmed. Parvez carded six net birdies and an additional two net eagles on his way to victory.

Commenting on the tournament, Dubai Duty Free Executive Vice Chairman & CEO, Colm McLoughlin said,” Congratulations to all the participants and winners of this year’s Dubai Duty Free Seniors Cup. Thank you to Emirates Golf Club, with whom we shared a long-standing affiliation, for their support in organising the event and that a fun day was had by all despite the weather condition.”

The day’s best Gross score came from Scott Hutton (Emirates Golf Federation) with 32 gross points. Scott covered his back nine in level par gross to take top spot in the category.

In the Ladies Seniors Division, Jung Hee Lee (Al Hamra) claimed top spot with a score of 39 points. Jung Hee carded five net birdies across her round, finishing her back six holes in net two under par. Runner up in the Seniors Division was Dubai Creek Lady Captain Shiba Wahid with 37 points. Shiba managed six net birdies in her round.

The Ladies Super Senior was won by Kiyono Taniuchi (Emirates Golf Club) with 39 points. Kiyono covered her front nine in two under par before a strong one under par finish ensured the win. Runner up was Sangita Soni (Emirates Golf Club) with 36 points. Sangita carded three net birdies and a fantastic net eagle on the 15th.

In the Men’s Seniors Division, Ahosk Ahuja representing Dubai Duty Free was the winner with an excellent 42 pts total. In what was a very clean scorecard, Ashok totalled seven net birdies with the only blemish a net bogey on Hole 4. Runner-up was Julias Dias (Emirates Golf Club) with 40 points. Julias also managed a phenomenal seven net birdies.

The Men’s Super Seniors was won by Ashok Kumar (Emirates Golf Club) with 36 points and winning with a better back nine. After a difficult start, Ashok recovered with three net birdies to finish his front nine. A solid level par net back ensured he pipped the runner up with a better back nine. The runner up was Sudhir Vora (Emirates Golf Club) again with 36 points. The highlight of Sudhir’s round came at the Par 3 8th where Sudhir carded a gross birdie two.

The day’s best Gross score came from Scott Hutton (Emirates Golf Federation) with 32 gross points. Scott covered his back nine in level par gross to take top spot in the category.

The winner of the Men’s Nearest the Pin on hole seventeen was Dean Bell, while Nonita Chand won the Ladies’ Nearest the Pin on hole eight. In the Longest Drive, Veneet Mohan won on hole 16 in the Men’s division, while Jung Hee Lee, won on hole five in the Ladies division.

GENTS SENIORS CHAMPIONSHIP 2023

Saturday 16th September 2023

The Majlis Course at Emirates Golf Club welcomed 42 Seniors to the 2023 Championship. Despite humidity reaching 67%, the players produced some great scores.

The 2023 Gents Senior Champion, with an amazing gross score of 74 (2 over par), was Paul Byrne. The highlight of Paul’s round was his birdies on 17 and 18, leading him to a 3 shot victory.

The runner up in the gross division was Rohit Gupta with a great round of 77. Rohit bagged 2 birdies on both front 9 par threes and at the turn, Rohit was level par!

OMA MIDNIGHT MADNESS

Friday 29th September 2023

Third place went to Gary Black with a solid round of 80. Gary finished his round strong, covering the final four holes in 1 under par.

The net division was won by Suresh Shewakramani with a superb round of 69 net. Through the front 9 holes, Suresh secured 2 net eagles, and 2 net birdies. Placing him comfortably at 5 under par net.

Veneet Mohan was the winner of the Super Seniors Division with a gross round of 82. Veneet was 2 over at the turn following his great birdie on the 9th hole! He also birdied the 18th hole to finish his round on a high.

Emirates Golf Club once again hosted the exciting Midnight Madness over the floodlit Faldo Course. Members and guests came along to enjoy 27 holes; nine holes consisted of a two-ball scramble and the remaining 18 holes were played as a four-ball scramble. The event was followed by breakfast on the Spike Bar terrace. Despite golfing in the early hours, the heat showed no mercy, with temperatures reaching 33 degrees. Nevertheless, the heat was no match for the players.

Niranj Sangal, James Jackson, Oliver Ravenscroft, and Rohit Malhotra took home the trophy with a superb overall score of -33 under par. Their 18-hole scramble consisted of a staggering 12 birdies and 5 eagles! Oliver Ravenscroft and Rohit Malhotra contributed six birdies from the back nine 2 ball scramble and Niranj Sangal and James Jackson contributed five.

Second place went to Kieran Shaw, Jack Mountford, Chris McCarthy, and Joe Keely with a great overall score of -31 under par. The 4-ball claimed first place in the 18-hole scramble event with an incredible score of -29 under par, 6 shots clear of second place! Their score

card was made up of none other than birdies and eagles with 8 birdies and 10 eagles!

Third place went to Sultan Mahmood, Noman Mahmood, Shahid Habib, and Muhammad Siddiqui with an impressive overall score of -28 under par. In the 2-ball scramble on the back-nine holes, Shahid Habib and Muhammad Siddiqui produced an excellent round of -6 to contribute nicely to the overall score

TOURNAMENT RESULTS

LADIES STABLEFORD COMPETITION

Tuesday 19th September 2023

Winner Deirdre Kemp

Runner up Nonita Chand

Third Kiyono Taniuchi

points

points

LADIES MONTHLY MEDAL

Tuesday 26th September 2023

LADIES SEASON OPENER

Tuesday 3rd October 2023

The Majlis Course hosted 68 Female golfers for the Ladies Season Opener. Format for the day was a fourball scramble event in honour of our new Lady Caption for 2023, Fiona Berry. As is tradition on the season opener, the ladies gathered around the first tee to watch Fiona’s opening tee shot.

As a sign of friendship and respect of our new Lady Captain, the ladies all wore colours representing the Union Jack in honour of Fiona’s home country of Great Britain.

Amidst a sea of her home colours, Fiona hit a splendid drive down the fairway to a great cheer and round of applause. Following the ceremonious events of the first tee, all ladies headed out onto the course in their teams to compete for today’s prizes.

With a tremendous score of Net 55, our winners for today are Minkyeong Kim, Hyeong Ja Lee, Yang Sook Jung and Imyoung Ma. Minkyeong and her team played a fantastic round of golf consisting of 13 net birdies and two net eagles which enabled her team to win on a better back-nine.

Our Runners-up where Christiane Sprunck, Anne Gely-Bouigue, Victoria Anikina and Jayshree Gupta. Christiane and her team also shot a brilliant round of Net 55 which included 11 net birdies and 3 net eagles but narrowly missed out on top spot due to a weaker back

nine. Taking thus years third spot is the team of Naima Maya, Nonita Chand, Mitsuko Emmerson and Annabel Ayres. Naima and her team shot an impressive Net 57 which included a notable 3 net eagles on the front-nine which allowed her and her team to clinch third place.

For her Captains Drive, Fiona hit a wonderful baby fade straight down the middle with a total distance of 160 yards. Closest guess to the correct number and winner of a bottle of Moët Champagne is Amarjeet Radia with an accurate guess of 159 yards.

There was several on course events that took place throughout today’s play. Prizes included nearest the pin in two on hole two as well as nearest the pin on holes 4, 7 and 15.

Nearest the Pin in two on hole 2 went to Jayshree Gupta. Closest to the Pin on the 4th was won by Wonjeong Lee. On hole 7, closest to the Pin was won by Kristen Blomeley. Finally, Madeline Walsh was closest to the pin on 15.

Following the golf, the buffet reception and prize presentation was held in Emirates Golf Club’s Pavilion. Fiona made a lovely speech complimenting and thanking all the Members of the ladies’ club as well as the Dubai Golf tournament team. The great success of today’s event will hopefully be a sign of things to come heading into the new ladies season.

TOURNAMENT RESULTS

OMA MEDALFORD IN ASSOCIATION WITH CHRISTIES INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE DUBAI

Sunday 8th October 2023

Emirates Golf Club hosted the monthly OMA Medalford over the stunning Majlis Course. 82 Members enjoyed the course over either the morning or the afternoon shot gun. The morning shotgun carried many great scores.

Sudhir Vora (from B Division) claimed the overall medal prize with a net 65 (-7 under par). Sudhir secured a staggering 5 birdies and 2 eagles! The highlight of Mr Vora’s round was his two eagles over the last four holes.

Vedant Pal took home the trophy for Best Gross with a great round of 77, just beating Paul Byrne to it with a BB9. Vedant bagged 11 pars to produce his solid round of 5 over par.

The winner of A Division (Handicap 0-10) went to Vivek Chand, going round in net 70, with a BB9 beating Ethan Alan to the victory. Four birdies and an Eagle helped secure Mr Chand the net 70.

Although he narrowly missed out on the ‘A Division’ win, Ethan Alan produced a superb score. His card consisted of 6 birdies!

The birdie train was going strong for this month’s OMA Medalford players. Third place went to Anil Shivanna with a net 75. Anil bagged five birdies and one eagle. The runner up of the B Division (Handicap 11-20) was Mohd Tukiran Bin Mawi with a sterling round of -4 under par (net 68). Eight birdies were made by Mohd in today’s round!

Third place went to Andrew Robinson. After the turn Andrew produced an amazing 5 birdies!

The Winner of C Division (Handicap 21-28) went to Avtar Jalif. One third of Avtar’s round was made up of birdies. That is some serious golf!

The winner of the Gents Stableford event was David Moody with 38 Points.

The winner of the Ladies Stableford Event was Victoria Johnson with 34 points. Victoria bagged seven birdies, four of which were on the front 9 holes.

EMIRATES JUNIOR OPEN SUPPORTED BY TITLEIST

Sunday 15th October 2023

Emirates Golf Club welcomed 73 junior golfers on the Faldo Course for a great day of golf and fun. The players befriended Faldo Course and some superb scores were produced.

First, we would like to congratulate Ananyaa Sood for her hole-inone on the par three 12th hole. It was Ananyaa’s first ever hole-inone, and it was extremely special. Sitting in the Clubhouse, Ananyaa’s parents were eagerly awaiting Ananyaa to finish her round when they received the amazing news. Ananyaa’s mum was overjoyed and couldn’t wait to congratulate her daughter!

The 2023 Junior Open Boys Champion was Thomas Buchard, from The Els Club, with a superb round of 74 gross (2) over par. Thomas secured three birdies over the course of the round and shot (-1) under par on the back nine.

The 2023 Junior Open Girls Champion was Anca Mateiu, from Emirates Golf Club, with an astonishing score of 67 gross, (-5) under par. Six birdies led Anca to a six-shot victory with only one bogey on the card. The weather conditions and the course were both tough, to shoot 5 under par is exceptional and Anca should be extremely proud of herself.

The runner up (with a BB9) was Zach Gould, from Emirates Golf Club,

with a 75 gross (3) over par. Zach’s card featured 10 pars and three birdies. The birdie, par on hole 10 and 11 promoted Zach’s runner-up victory over Emirates Golf Club’s Viktor Kofod-Olsen, also shooting 75 gross (3) over par but missed narrowly missed out on second place with a birdie, bogey on holes 10 and 11. Viktor played solidly, with his score card consisting of three birdies and 10 pars! The best net for the Boys A Division (Handicap 0-14) went to Dhruv Sharma, from Emirates Golf Club, with an amazing round of 67 net (-5) under par.

The best net for the Boys B Division (Handicap 15-28) went to George Pendleton Nash, representing Emirates Golf Federation, with a great round of 68 net (-4) under par. George produced four birdies and an astounding two eagles, both par four, holes 7 and 14.

The best net for the Girls Division (Handicap 0-36) went to Hannah Lee, from Abu Dhabi Golf Club, with a 70 net (-2) under par. Hannah creates a beautifully clean score card with nine pars on the front nine, and three birdies with only one bogey on the back nine.

Second place went to Irun Kim, from Jumeirah Golf Estates, with a solid 72 net level par round. Irum produced five birdies throughout her round on the Faldo Course, two of which were on the back nine, along with a run of seven pars.

TOURNAMENT RESULTS

EGC BMW CHAMPIONSHIP

QUALIFIER FOR THE LUCKIEST BALL ON EARTH Sunday, 22nd October 2023

Emirates Golf Club welcomed 84 golfers to the 1pm shotgun on the Majlis Course for the EGC BMW Championship. As we are fast approaching the Dubai Dessert Classic, the conditions on the golf course are becoming tough. But the golfers battled the weather and the course and came out with some superb scores.

Male Champion / Female Champion / Junior Girls Champion / Overall Runner up qualified for the ‘Luckiest Ball on Earth’

Male Champion: Vidur Sethi claimed the Male Champions position after obtaining an amazing 44 points. The highlight of Vidur’s round was shooting 5 under par through the first 5 holes. Seven birdies and two eagles were made by Vidur despite tough conditions, and he entered the club house with a sterling round of 8 under par (net).

Lady Champion: The Lady Champion of the BMW Championship, and qualifying for the Luckiest Ball on Earth, was Anca Pirvu with 38 points, beating Deidre Kemp on BB9 with an eagle on the 10th hole! Anca secured 6 birdies and 2 eagles throughout her round.

Best Female Junior: Anca Mateiu shot 71 gross and secured 34 points to secure the Best Female Junior and a qualification for the ‘Luckiest Ball on Earth’. Anca is 13 years old and plays off +3.3! Anca produced an amazing score card! The highlight of Anca’s round was her birdie 2 on the 7th hole.

Overall Runner Up: David Moody was the Overall Runner up with a great score of 40 points. David obtained 4 birdies and 2 eagles! The highlight to David’s games was shooting 4 under par through the last 4 holes.

Overall Third: Deirdre Kemp secured third place with 38 points, beating 3 fellow players with a BB9. Deidre obtained six birdies, four of which were on the back 9 holes. The highlight of Deidre’s round was the 3 back-to-back birdies on holes 15, 16 and 17!

Division A (Handicap.0-12)

Winner: Mike Butler won the A division with 38 points, beating Mohammed Khakwani with a BB9. Mike constructed a score card consisting of three birdies and 2 eagles!

Runner Up: Mohammed Khakwani also had 38 points. Mohammed completed seven holes with birdies! The highlight of his round was the 4 birdies over the last 5 holes.

Division B (Handicap.13-24)

The winner of Division B with 38 points, was Chris Vass. Chris produced a sterling score card, with half of his round consisting of birdies!

The runner up of Division B was Anand Lakhiani with 37 points. Anand was 3 under par (net) through the front 9 holes! Nearest the Pin (Hole # 15): Najla Bartette

THE ULTIMATE TOUR IS BACK

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TOURNAMENT RESULTS

LADIES HIDDEN PARTNER BETTERBALL

Wednesday, 6th September 2023

This Wednesday at Jumeirah Golf Estates the season started in true fashion, with the ladies participating in a hidden partner betterball over the Fire Course. The conditions were humid with

THURSDAY CURRY CLUB

Thursday, 7th September 2023

This week’s addition of the Thursday Curry Club was upon us. Jumeirah Golf Estates members and guests came along to enjoy a 9-hole event and afterwards all golfers gather in Kasturi restaurant for the presentation and dinner.

This week saw 36 golfers take to the back nine of the Fire Course, once again the field didn’t fail to impress with some very low scores.

Congratulations to our winning pair of Peter Martensson and Daniel Dickinson with a score of net 30 (-6). The pair took home

the heat climbing up throughout. The format of the day was a ladies hidden partner betterball with each golfer playing Individual Stableford and a blind draw after to determine their partner.

The overall scores came down to a tie for first. Congratulations to Juliette Castell and Victoria Buerk for winning with a fantastic 43 points. Juliet scored well on the first and second hole having back-to-back eagles. Victoria managed to score well through holes 4,5,6 scoring net birdies on all three holes. These fantastic scores meant they had the upper hand on the count back.

Unfortunately, just falling short on count back with some great golf on display was Lady Captain Evelyn Downham and Marta Balaguer. Evelyn played well throughout with the highlight of six net birdies, brilliant golf played. Marta’s highlight came on hole 11 with a net eagle. The pair made an excellent team scoring 43 points.

a fantastic prize for three guests to play over our Fire Course. Peter and Daniel managed to score a brilliant six under gross, managing to score four birdies in a row from holes 15 to 18.

In second place was the team of Club Manager Stephen Hubner and Club Championship David Bainbridge. The pair scored five gross birdies scoring a net 32 (-4). Stephen and Daivd had a handicap of +1 meaning they had to give a shot back to the course.

Finishing third with a matching score of net 32 (-4) was our Golf Experience Manager Kieran Blackshaw and Alex Whayman. They unfortunately missed out on second place with a count back coming down to the back 6 holes. The pair scored well scoring four birdies throughout.

Special shout out to Andrew Parsons and Philip Childs who also scored a net 32 (-4). Which the pair just missing out on the prizes. Well done to the pair who scored a birdie on the 17th hole, the hardest hole on the back nine.

There were two on course prizes, winning Longest Drive on Hole 18 was Guillaume Adam whilst Vice Captain Noel O’Leary won Nearest the Pin on the 14th congratulations to you both.

OMA EMIRATES MEDALFORD IN ASSOCIATION

WITH CHRISTIES INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE DUBAI

Saturday, 9th September 2023 – Fire Course

Jumeirah Golf Estates held the September Dubai Golf OMA Emirates Medalford in Association with Christies International Real Estate Dubai. This event bought a field size of 91 participants and was played over the Fire Course. The event was battled out in what were hot and humid conditions.

Vidur Sethi was the September Medalford champion, scoring a brilliant net 66 (-6). Vidur managed to score five straight net birdies through holes 11 to 15, seeing him safely to a two-shot win.

The Gents Division A was won by Francisco Zini with a fantastic score of net 68 (-4). Francisco scored an amazing seven net birdies throughout his round.

Congratulations to Alan McNamara who matched Francisco’s score of net 68 (-4). Unfortunately, Alan missed out on the top prize of Division A by losing on count-back despite playing well on the fifth hole where he made a net eagle. In 3rd place with a very respectable score of net 70 (-2) was Philip Childs. Who played super well on the back nine, to record a net 32.

The Gents Division B winner was Ravi Khanna with a score of net 69 (-3). Ravi scored well through holes 14 to 16 scoring four under net for these holes.

In second place was Julius Dias with respectable score of net 73 (+1). Taking home third prize was Avtar Singh Jalif scoring a net 74 (+2).

The Senior’s Division was won by Mark Castell who scored a net 69 (-3). Mark had a great stretch of holes from holes 3 to 6, with all net birdies and following it up with a net eagle on 7. A Great display of golf.

Winning the Gross Division was Oscar Craig with a score of 69 (-3). Oscar played well throughout plus making an eagle on the 18th par 5. The runner-up was Sam Mullane scoring 71 (-1).

Paul McGee won the Stableford Division with 37 points, beating Steve Drake in second place on a count back with 19 points on the back nine.

A total of ten ladies competed in the Ladies Division. Coming out on top was Roma Khanna with an excellent score of net 70 (-2). Well done to Roma who scored a net eagle on hole 12.

The Junior Division came to a three-way tie for first place with a score of net 74 (+2). Congratulations to Samara D’Silva on winning the count back and taking home top stop.

Massive congratulations to Marc McStay who made his first Hole in One on the 8th as well as winning Nearest the Pin. Meanwhile on the 14th hole Jayson Hilton hit his shot to two and a half feet away which won him the Nearest the Pin. Finally, Beat the Pro was located on hole 2, only four golfers managed to beat our Tommy Fleetwood Academy Teaching Professional Joe O’Connor. Congratulations to Russel Wilson who was lucky enough to win the 45-minute lesson with Joe.

TOURNAMENT RESULTS

THE LOUNGE SPA LADIES

Wednesday, 6th September 2023

With the season having just started, Jumeirah Golf Estates hosted The Ladies, sponsored by The Lounge Spa. The ladies therefore took to the immaculate Earth course. The format of the day was an individual stableford, and with the weather cooling down it made for a pleasant round of golf.

Congratulations to Marta Balaguer for collecting the top prize with 33 points. Marta scored an excellent five net birdies throughout her round. Also, Marta played extremely well on the back nine, scoring 20 points. This fantastic nine holes meant Marta took home the amazing prize from the Lounge Spa.

THURSDAY CURRY CLUB

Thursday, 14th September 2023

Yesterday afternoon 36 golfers took to the Earth course to play the latest instalment of our increasingly popular Thursday Curry Club. A combination of members and guests spent their afternoon partaking in a short but fierce pairs 9-hole scramble competition, followed by an amazing dinner and prize presentation in our Kasturi Restaurant. As always there were some very impressive scores posted by all the golfers, showcasing the talent of our members.

Congratulations to our winning team of Alex Whayman and David Bainbridge with a score of net 30 (-6). The pair took home the coveted first-place prize for three guests to play at

In second place was Joo Yun Lee who scored 30 points. Joo Yun managed to take second place by winning on count back, coming down to the last six holes. The highlight of Joo Yun round was on hole six where she made a gross birdie, meaning Joo Yun scored four points on this hole. In third place was Sylvie Martin scoring 30 points, which meant Sylvie claimed the last prize of the day. Sylvie scored well on multiple holes especially on holes 6,8,13,15 where she made net birdies.

Congratulations to Sue Stevens who managed to collect the Nearest the Pin on the 17th.

our Earth Course. Alex and David managed to score a brilliant five under gross, with three birdies in a row through holes one to three.

In second place, narrowly missing out on first place due to a count-back, was the combination of our Membership services executive Kian Higgins and member Paul McGee. The pair posted a score of 6 under, scoring themselves a net 30 (-6). The highlight of their round came when they went 4 under through holes one to three consisting of two birdies and an eagle.

Finishing third was our members’ partnership of Neil Gallagher and Jason Walters. They scored a close 5 under 31 over the course of the nine. With the highlight of their round being a gross birdie, net eagle on the hardest hole on the course. A special shout out to our lady captain Evelyn Downham and her partner Carl Downham who narrowly missed out on the prizes due to a count-back. Their round consisted of an impressive 5 gross birdies.

While narrowly missing out on a podium position, Carl Downham managed the impressive feat of winning both oncourse prizes. The competitions this week were Longest Drive on hole 9 and Nearest the Pin on hole 6, congratulations.

JUMEIRAH PAIRS BY THE LOUNGE SPA PAIRS GREENSOMES

Saturday, 16th September 2023 – Fire Course

Jumeirah Golf Estates hosted the monthly Jumeirah Pairs by The Lounge Spa over the Fire Course. This event was battled out in a Pairs Greensomes where each player tees off and the best shot is selected, from that point the pair plays alternate shots until the hole is completed.

The winning score was Net 67 (-5) scored by our Lady Captain Evelyn Downham and her partner Carl Downham. The pair came back after losing out on the prizes due to count back in last week edition of Thursday Curry Club. The pair scored particular well on the front nine with a score of net 33 (-3).

In second place was the pair of Simon Brind and Andrew Parsons with a score of Net 69 (-3). Well done to the pair who had two

LINCOLN DUBAI GOLF PRO-AM SERIES

Sunday, 17th September 2023 – Fire Course

Jumeirah Golf Estates hosted the second Lincoln Dubai Golf ProAm Series over the Fire Course. Each team was considered of one Professional and three Amateurs, and the best two scores of each team counted towards the final team score. Also, each professional participated in an additional individual stroke play competition.

The winning team consisted of Golf Professional Kian Higgins, David Warham, David Martin, and Harry Northrop; the team managed to score an excellent 94 points throughout. The highlights of the team came on the front nine where the team scored 53 points.

After a two-way count back, runners up position went to Golf Professional Graham Forbes, Juliette Castell, Rony El Haber, Andy Drees scoring 88 points. The count back went all the way back to the last six holes. A highlight of Juliette’s round was a net eagle scored on hole 15.

net eagles on the front nine which separated them from third place.

Third-place prize went to Cavit Yiliz and Umar Farooq with a great score of Net 70 (-2). Congratulations to the pair as they had to defend Daniel Gribbin and Stephen Punch off in a count back, the pair were also on Net 70 (-2).

There were two on-course competitions, winning Nearest the Pin on hole 14 was Daniel Gribbin who hit his shot to 4.5 feet away. Unfortunately, no one managed to beat Tommy Fleetwood Academy Teaching Professional Joe O’Connor who hit his shot to eight feet on the 8th hole. A random draw therefore had to take place with all participants. Congratulations to Daniel Gribbin who was lucky enough to be drawn out.

Missing out on second place with 88 points finishing in third place was the team of Golf Professional Sujjan Singh, Manu Chauhan, Mohit Singh and Veneet Kumar. Their best hole as a team came on hole 11 where Manu scored 4 points and the rest of the team scored 3 points taking the total up to 7 points in one hole.

Also, each professional participated in an individual stroke play. Congratulations to Sujjan Singh for scoring a brilliant 65 (-7). He managed to score this with seven birdies, which calculated to a bogey free round.

In runners up position was Tommy Fleetwood Head Academy Professional Tim Backhouse with a fantastic score of 68 (-4). Tim played well throughout his round making only one bogey and five birdies.

There was a two-way tie for 3rd place with a score of 69 (-3) which was Matt Brookes and Tommy Fleetwood Academy Teaching Professional Diarmaid Fraser. Matt scored well on hole 5 where he made an eagle and Diarmaid scored well throughout with six birdies on this scorecard.

There were two on-course competitions, winner of Nearest the Pin on hole 8 was Alan Sheepwash, whilst Jane Vorster won the Straightest Drive on hole 18. Congratulations to you both.

TOURNAMENT RESULTS

THE LADIES SCRAMBLE

Wednesday, 20th September 2023

The ladies’ golfing season is well under way, and this week Jumeirah Golf Estates hosted a two-ball scramble. A total of eighteen ladies took to the Fire Course to battle for the victory. Congratulations are in order to Trudi McMullan and Teresa Sheepwash for scoring a brilliant Net 63 (-9). The pair played well throughout, scoring nine net birdies. Their best golf really shone through on holes 9 to 12 where they made three straight net birdies.

THURSDAY CURRY CLUB

Thursday, 21st September 2023

Jumeirah Golf Estates once again hosted the weekly Thursday Curry Club over the Immaculate Fire Course. Members and quests came along to enjoy a 2-ball scramble which was played over 9-holes with all golfers gathering in Kasturi afterward for the presentation and dinner.

In second place was Sue Stevens and Jane Vorster scoring Net 69 (-3). Well done to the pair for scoring four net birdies on their round. Their highlight was on the fourth hole where they made net birdie on the hardest hole on the golf course.

After winning Nearest to the Pin last week Sue Stevens came back to win another Nearest the Pin this week on hole 14.

The pair of James Finnigan and Alan McNamara won with a brilliant score of Net 30 (-6). The pair scored an excellent five gross birdies throughout their round. Their best scores came through holes 3 to 7 where they made five birdies in a row.

Runners up were the pair of Faysal Ayoubi and Charles Faulkner scoring a fantastic Net 31 (-5). The pair managed to claim second place by winning a count-back over third place which was the pair of Alex Leigh and George Murray. Faysal and Charles scored well on holes 7 and 9 where they scored two net eagles.

There were two on course prizes, winning Nearest to the Pin on Hole 2 was Luke Gregory whilst George Murray won the Longest Drive on hole 9. Congratulations to you both.

THE PARK HYATT DUBAI LADIES PAIRS BETTERBALL STABLEFORD

Wednesday, 27th September 2023

Jumeirah Golf Estates hosted 18 Ladies on the Earth Course in a Pairs Betterball event sponsored by Park Hyatt Dubai. With the weather cooling down, it set out to be a great round.

The format was a Pairs Betterball where each player played their own ball on each hole, and the best Stableford score from the pair on each hole counted for the total points. For the handicapping, the ladies were playing off 85% course handicap allowance from the orange tee markers. The winning pair was Marta Balaguer and Sherma Ayrton, with an amazing score of 44 points. The pair had 24

points on the front nine and 20 points on the back nine. Marta and Sherma had an amazing ten net birdies throughout their round.

The runners-up were Joo Yun Lee and Hojin Park, with a great score of 42 points. The pair had six net birdies and one net eagle. The highlight of their round was on the back nine where they scored 24 points.

There were two on-course competitions; winning Nearest the Pin on hole six was Sylvie Martin. Whilst Dierde Kemp won Nearest the Pin on the stunning 17th hole.

THURSDAY CURRY CLUB

Thursday, 28th September 2023

Jumeirah Golf Estates once again held its popular Thursday Curry Club held over the front nine of the Fire Course. Members and guests came along to enjoy 2-ball scramble which was played over 9-holes with all golfers gathering in Kasturi afterward for the presentation and dinner.

Congratulations to the pair of Brian Myers and Tom Moon who scored a Net 30 (-6). This managed to put them at the top of the leader board. The pair scored three gross birdies through their round.

The runners up with the same score of Net 30 (-6) was the pair of David Warham and Kieran Casey. Unfortunately, the pair lost out on count back. The highlight of the round was when the pair birdied the hardest hole on the golf course, hole 4.

In third place was the pair of Alan McNamara and Ciaran Campbell’s who also scored a Net 30 (-6). Unfortunately, the pair lost out on count back on the last six holes. The highlight came though holes one to three where the pair made three gross birdies.

There were two on course prizes, winning Nearest to the Pin on Hole 2 was Jonathan Wheeler whilst David Tarbutton won the Longest Drive on hole 5. Congratulations to you both.

TOURNAMENT RESULTS

UAE GOLF SOCIETY CHAMPIONSHIP

Friday, 29th September – Earth Course

Jumeirah Golf Estates held the inaugural UAE Golf Society Championship. Where twelve different societies around the UAE came along to enjoy 18 Holes over the immaculate Earth Course.

Members and guests enjoyed a great pairs format 6-6-6 where from holes 1-6 golfers played a Pairs Scramble, holes 7-12 golfers played Pairs Betterball and finally holes 13- 18 golfers played Paired Greensomes.

Congratulations to the winning society Friday Club from Jumeriah Golf Estates. The team had an amazing score of Net 62 (-10 Under Par). This amazing score was produced by the team taking advantage of the pairs scramble where the team scored -8 under par.

Also, each team took part in an individual pair’s competition. Congratulations to the winning pair from Dubai Bandits Golf Society Dan Read and James Wilde with a great score of Net 66 (-6). The pair played consistently throughout scoring (-2 under par) on all three different formats.

In runners up position was Sam Murdoch and Richard Stamford from Dubai Divots, matching 1st score of Net 66 (-6) but unfortunately lost out on the count back. Sam and Richard played well having 9 net birdies throughout all formats.

A special mention to Gaz Beery and Steve Worel who lost out on count back to third position Jamie Scott and Andy Mee scoring Net 67 (-5). Jamie and Andy played their best golf on the best ball where they scored Net 20 (-5).

There were two on course prizes, winning Nearest to the Pin on Hole 17 was Jumeirah Golf Estates Vice Captain Noel O’Leary whilst Stuart Murray won the Longest Drive on hole 9. Congratulations to you both.

2023 DUBAI GOLF TROPHY

Sunday, 1st October 2023

Jumeirah Golf Estates held the first day of the 24th Dubai Golf Trophy, eighteen players took to the immaculate Earth Course. The mornings format was Foursomes Matchplay with tee times starting from 7:39am, and afternoon’s play started at 12:20pm which was played in a Fourball Matchplay format. Congratulations to the Amateur team, which are 10 – 6 going into the final day. On Monday the 2nd of October the third-round singles will be played from 11:30pm at Dubai Creek and Yacht Club.

TOURNAMENT RESULTS

RYDER CUP SHOOTOUT

Sunday, 1st October – Earth Course

Jumeirah Golf Estates hosted the Ryder Club Shootout over the stunning Fire Course. A total of 48 pairs played between different formats with holes 1-6 golfers played pairs Betterball, holes 7-12 golfers played foursomes, holes 13-18 golfers played a combined Stableford.

THE LOUNGE SPA LADIES

Wednesday, 4th October 2023

With the season having just started, Jumeirah Golf Estates hosted The Ladies, sponsored by The Lounge Spa. The ladies therefore took to the fantastic Fire Course. The format of the day was an individual stableford, and with the weather cooling down it made for a pleasant round of golf.

Congratulations to Sherma Ayrton for collecting the top prize with 36 points. Sherma scored an excellent 19 points on the back nine to secure the win.

Congratulations to Nicolas Robinson and Sam Robinson for scoring an amazing 56 points. The pair was well matched even down to their outfits, which was followed up by an amazing round of golf. Highlights came between the pair when they made an impressive six birdies.

The pair in runners up position was Nadeem Masud and Ehtasham Uddin, after matching 56 points they unfortunately lost out on count back to Nicholas and Sam. Nevertheless, they played well through holes 1 to 6 where they scored -4 under. In third place, only three points behind the leaders were Chris Wilmot and Andy Millership with 53 points. Chris played his best golf on holes 16 and 18 where he made gross birdies on both. Andy played well at the start of the round between hole 3 and 5 Andy made three net birdies.

There were two on course prizes, winning Nearest to the Pin on Hole 14, which was only two feet away was Louis Thorne whilst Sam West won the Longest Drive on hole 14. Congratulations to you both.

In second place was Yulia Golubeva who scored 35 points. The highlight of Yulia’s round was an amazing 3 birdies on the back nine which led to 21 points on the back nine. In third place was Joo Yun Lee scoring an impressive 34 points.

Congratulations to Juliette Castell who hit a fantastic shot to 11 feet to claim the Nearest to the Pin on Hole 2. Winning Nearest to the Pin on the 11th Hole was Yulia Golubeva with a superb shot to 7 feet.

THURSDAY CURRY CLUB

Thursday 5th October 2023 – Fire Course

On Thursday this week, the Fire course at Jumeirah Golf Estates hosted Jumeirah Golf Estates weekly Thursday Curry Club which was kindly sponsored by Fairway Homes Real Estate.

Forty players took part in the event, which is played as a 9-hole scramble. The teams comprised of new and long-standing Jumeirah Golf Estates members along with some of the golf management team. Ladies were teeing up from the orange tee markers, with gents playing off the signature tee markers. Each team received a 50% course Handicap Allowance from 35% + 15% lowest to highest handicaps. The winners of this week’s edition of the Thursday Curry Club were the pair of Kian Higgins and Mark Schoombie with a fabulous 31 net (5 under par). The pair, who received no shots, made 5 birdies, which included a stretch of three birdies in a row. Both winners will receive a fourball voucher for the magnificent Fire course.

Finishing runners up by way of count-back, were the pair of Steve Drake and Noel O’Leary who scored a well-respected round of 31 net (5 under par). The pairing of Steve Noon and Martin McGuigan made up the top 3, also scoring a 31 net (5 under par) however,

missing out on first and second place on a count-back. There was a selection of special events on the front nine of the Fire course. Winning nearest to the pin on Hole 2 was Mark Schoombie with an excellent shot to 6 feet. Winning the longest drive on Hole 5 was vice-captain Noel O’Leary with a fantastic driver down the middle of the fairway.

TOMMY FLEETWOOD ACADEMY JUNIOR SERIES

BY DAVID GARDNER FROM ST JAMESS PLACE

Friday, 6th October 2023

With the season just starting, Jumeirah Golf Estates hosted its first Tommy Fleetwood Academy Junior Medal Series. The event was held over the front nine of the Fire Course with great participation of 36 Juniors playing. After, the players gathered to enjoy a chief’s buffet and presentation. This Competition had four different divisions including the forward tees, gross competition, girls’ competition and Tommy Fleetwood Academy tees.

Tommy Fleetwood Academy had its own tee markers placed out on the course for the younger juniors that don’t have a handicap. Well done to Kiaan Maharaj with a score of Net 36 (Even Par) who came runner up to Dalia Sebti who had a superb score of Net 35 (-1). Congratulations to Aleksander Rozhko for winning the Forward tee

competition with a great score of Net 29 (-7). Three shots behind was Alexsander Sales with Net 32 (-4).

In the Girls category the winner was Camelia Sebti who scored a great Net 34 (-2). Just behind Camelia was Milana Rozhko with a score of Net 36 (Even Par). Finally, in the gross competition the winners were tied, congratulations to Jameel Choudry who scored a Gross 35 which won on count back against Tommy Carr JR.

There were two on course prizes, winning Nearest to the Pin on Hole 2 was Alexander Sales whilst Dalia Sebti won the raffle for Beat the Pro as unfortunately no one beat Tommy Fleetwood Academy Professional Euan Bowden.

TOURNAMENT RESULTS

OMA EMIRATES MEDALFORD IN ASSOCIATION WITH CHRISTIES INTERNATIONAL REAL ESTATE LUCKIEST BALL ON EARTH QUALIFIER

Saturday, 7th October 2023 –

Earth Course

Jumeirah Golf Estates held the October OMA Emirates Medalford in Association with Christies International Real Estate Dubai, this event was also a qualifier for the Luckiest Ball on Earth. With the final being played at Jumeirah Golf Estates on the 4th of November. This event brought 104 members of Jumeirah Golf Estates to battle it out over the Earth Course in the humid morning shotgun.

Congratulations to the qualifiers of the Luckiest Ball on Earth Final who are Siddhaan Chhibber, Irum Kim, Tanya Harrison, David Warham. Each player won their respective divisions to qualify through.

Congratulations to David Warham who was the October Medalford champion, with an amazing score of Net 63 (-9). David managed to make two Net eagles, meaning he won by six shots.

The Gents Division A was won by Siddhaan Chhibber with a fantastic score of net 69 (-3). Siddhaan scored an amazing six net birdies throughout his round.

In runners up position was Michael Lennon with a great score of Net 71 (-1). Only one shot behind Michael was Stuart Murray with Net 72 (Even Par).

The Gents Division B winner was Reece Malcolm with a score of net 70 (-2). Reece scored well through holes 3 to 5 where he scored three net birdies in a row.

In second place was Ravi Khanna with a respectable score of net 72 (Even par). Ravi played consistently throughout, also managing to score four net birdies. Taking home third prize was Luke Gregory scoring a Net 72, unfortunately losing out on a count back with Ravi.

A total of eight ladies competed in the Ladies Division. Coming out on top was Irum Kim with an excellent score of net 71 (-1). Well done to Irum who scored an amazing six net birdies.

The Junior Division was won by Samuel Dubin with a great score of Net 72. Samuel played well on holes 16 and 17 where he made back-to-back birdies.

The Senior’s Division was won by Ian Mclnerney who scored a net 73 (+1). Ian had a better back nine scoring Net 35 (-1).

The Gross Division champion was Jay Mullane with a score of 70 (-2). Jay played well, making four birdies throughout. The runner-up was Benoit Ardon scoring 73 (+1).

Lukas Astrom won the Stableford Division with 36 points, beating David Tarbotton in second place by one point. There were four on course competitions; winning Nearest the Pin on hole 6 was Aasiya Saleem whilst Tanya Harrison won hole 4 and hole 17 Nearest the Pins, massive congratulations. Finally, Beat the Pro was located on hole 13, thirteen golfers managed to beat our Tommy Fleetwood Academy Teaching Professional Jamie Dreelan. Congratulations to Chris Wilmot who was lucky enough to win the 45-minute lesson with Jamie.

THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY

Wednesday, 11th October 2023

The ladies’ golfing season is well under way, and this week Jumeirah Golf Estates hosted the Good, The Bad and The Ugly. The Ladies took to the Earth Course to battle for the victory on today’s par 96 course.

Congratulations are in order to Teresa Sheepwash & Philippa Stumbles for scoring a brilliant Net 104 (+8). The pair played well throughout, scoring seven net birdies and an incredible net eagle on the tough par 4 ninth hole courtesy of Philippa who also celebrated her birthday. Their best golf really shone through during the closing

THURSDAY CURRY CLUB

Thursday, 12th October 2023

Thursday Curry Club was a rare addition with the event being played over the back nine of the Fire Course. Members and guests enjoyed a 2-ball scramble followed by the presentation and dinner in the wonderful Kasturi restaurant.

Congratulations to Tom Purdy and David Bainbridge who managed to win the event by one shot. The pair scored an amazing seven under gross but finished Net 30 (-6) as their handicap was +1. Their highlight was on hole 13 where they had a gross eagle.

In runners up position there was a three-way tie on the score Net 31 (-5). Winning on count back on their debut was Hash Kapadia

stretch on holes 14 to 18 where they made 5 birdies on the last 5 holes between them to ensure the win.

The runners up were Mitsuko Emmerson and Sunny Raymond scoring Net 110 (+14). Well done to the pair for scoring three net birdies on their round. Their highlight was on the back nine where Mitsuko Emmerson made a net eagle on the par 4 twelfth hole, helping her team to claim second place.

and Tara Hession. Their highlight was on hole 18 where they made net eagle. In third place unfortunately losing the count back, but still in the prizes was Membership Services Executive Kian Higgins and Lee Johnston. The pair had a great score with five gross birdies throughout.

Special mention to the pair of Louis Thorne and Golf Experience Executive Finlay Galloway who just lost out on count back.

There were two on course prizes, winning Nearest to the Pin in two shots on Hole 17 was Neil Gallagher whilst Louis Thorne won the Longest Drive on hole 13. Congratulations to you both.

TOURNAMENT RESULTS

JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES CORPORATE INVITATIONAL 2023

Thursday, 12th October 2023

The golfing season is well under way, and this week Jumeirah Golf Estates hosted its inaugural Corporate Invitational event. A total of 8 companies with 2 teams of 4 took to the prestigious Earth Course to battle for victory.

The format of the day was a fourball scramble where the best ball is selected after each shot and the overall prize went to the winning company with the best combined score of both teams.

A huge congratulations to the winning company on the day, Mapei, for scoring a combined net score of 39 under par, the two teams competing for Mapei included Craig Beech, Carl Munn, Tony Hogg, Eddie Stanley, Ian Gregory, Robbie Nelson, Steve Keirnan and Jamie Otto.

Mapei were deserved champions on the day with both teams finishing 1st and 2nd, although it was the team consisting of Craig Beech, Carl Munn, Tony Hogg, Eddie Stanley who took the glory scoring a very impressive 20 under par (net 52) on a very difficult Earth Course with the rough far longer than usual as the course gets ready to host the DP World Tour Championship next month. The highlight of the day for the team were the four net eagles, with two of those arriving on back-toback holes, 4 and 5.

Runners up, also representing Mapei were the team of Ian Gregory, Robbie Nelson, Steve Keirnan and Jamie Otto, scoring a brilliant 19 under par (Net 53) winning on count back. The teams net scores included three eagles, thirteen birdies and only two pars which saw them fight off challenges from the rest of the pack.

Missing out on second place via count back with an overall score of 19 under par (Net 53) were the team representing Kerry Logistics which consisted of Darren Baker, Peter Kerins, Alex King & James McSweeney. There were two Nearest the Pin competitions occurring on both hole 6 and hole 17, the winner of Nearest the Pin on hole 6 went to Darren Baker from Kerry Logistics.

In addition, the Nearest the Pin on the treacherous 17th hole was navigated wonderfully by Peter Smith representing Dubai Airports.

Alongside the Nearest the Pin prizes there were two Longest Drive competitions on both the 9th and 14th holes. Winner from OMA Emirates went to Oliver Ravenscroft while the winner on the 14th hole was claimed by James McSweeney from Kerry Logistics who had a picked up his second prize of the evening, proving a crucial asset to the Kerry Logistics team.

THE PARK HYATT DUBAI LADIES PAIRS SCRAMBLE STABLEFORD

Wednesday, 18th October 2023

Jumeirah Golf Estates hosted 6 Ladies on the Fire Course in a Pairs Scramble event sponsored by Park Hyatt Dubai. With the weather cooling down, it set out to be a great round.

The format was a Pairs Scramble where each player played their own ball on the tee and the best ball is chosen. Both players then play from the chosen ball and the process repeats itself until the ball is holed, the team with the lowest net score at the end wins.

The winning pair of Sue Stevens & Anna Abbott took the crown as they recorded a net score of 68 (-4), winning on count-back from the team of Jacqueline de Vries & Willemijn Roeterdink. Sue & Anna were four shots back after making the turn although their superb back nine score of gross 38, finishing with an net eagle on 18 helped them claim the title! After a tough start with a double bogey on the 2nd

hole they fought back with net eagles on 4 & 5, combined with a further 3 net birdies and the eagle on 18, they were able to win the event via count-back.

Runners up were Jacqueline de Vries & Willemijn Roeterdink who unfortunately lost out on first place via count-back after posting a superb front 9 of net 32 (-4). The pair set alight from holes 4 – 9 with their score during this stretch of -5 par, but with a tough back nine they could only manage to come in with a 68 (-4) which was not enough on the day as it turned out.

There were two on-course competitions; winning Nearest the Pin on hole eight was Anna Abbott. Whilst Jacqueline de Vries won Nearest the Pin on the 14th hole.

TOURNAMENT RESULTS

THURSDAY CURRY CLUB

Thursday, 19th October 2023

Jumeirah Golf Estates hosted a record 52 players on the Fire Course in a 9-hole Pairs Scramble event for this week’s Thursday Curry Club, with the weather cooling down, it set out to be a great round.

The format was a Pairs Scramble where each player played their own ball on the tee and the best ball is chosen. Both players then play from the chosen ball and the process repeats itself until the ball is holed, the team with the lowest net score at the end wins.

The winning pair of Tom Stephenson & Tom Purdy took the victory as they shot a very low score of -6 net (net 30). This score was good enough on the evening to beat Louis Thorne & Seth Hopkinson who recorded a very respectable -5 net. Tom S & Tom P shot a gross 29 playing off a combined +1 handicap for this event as they converted 7 birdies with only 2 pars.

Louis & Seth got off to a slow start on the first 3 holes until they hit the ground running starting on the par 5 13th hole which was the start of 5 birdies in the last 6 holes to rocket them up the leader board.

The special guest of the evening was Jumeriah Golf Estates’ very own Ryder Cup winning hero and 6 time DP World Tour winner Tommy Fleetwood.

Tommy joined us for his first Thursday Curry Club appearance as he joined forces with Club Manager Stephen Hubner. The pair played off a very respectable +2 handicap while shooting a gross 30 (net 32) which was only good enough for 6th place.

There were three on-course competitions; including nearest the pin on hole 11, beat the pro on the 14th and longest drive on hole 18.

THURSDAY CURRY CLUB

Thursday, 26th October 2023

Jumeirah Golf Estates hosted 40 players on the Fire Course in a ninehole Pairs Scramble event for this week’s Thursday Curry Club, with the unprecedented weather creating a real challenge for the players coming down the stretch.

The format was a Pairs Scramble where each player played their own ball on the tee and the best ball is chosen. Both players then play from the chosen ball and the process repeats itself until the ball is holed, the team with the lowest net score at the end wins.

The winning pair of Conor Duffy & Ronan Curtis took the victory as they shot an impressive score of (-6) net (net 30). This score was good enough to win on countback to the pair of Oliver Turnbull & Mark Mackenzie who also recorded (–6) net. Conor & Ronan made three net eagles on holes 10, 11 & 17 with the best of them coming on the par three, 11th hole, where they would make a net hole-inone! Oliver & Mark had more of a steady round as they made six net birdies and three pars although a par on the par five, 18th hole, would be the pivotal hole which lost them this week’s Curry Club crown on countback.

Third place was the husband-and-wife team of Rosine & Francois Natali who shot a very respectable (-3) net which included five birdies on their round, although the extreme weather which came in would prove to be too much for the pair as their round would include two bogeys.

There were two on-course competitions, including nearest the pin on hole 14 and longest drive on the par four, 10th hole. Gregor Sword won the nearest the pin on hole 14 with Neil Gallagher winning the longest drive on hole 10.

JUMEIRAH PAIRS

BY THE LOUNGE SPA

Saturday, 29th October 2023

Jumeirah Golf Estates hosted the monthly Jumeirah Pairs by The Lounge Spa over the Fire Course. This event was battled out in a Pairs Betterball Stableford where the best net score on each hole within the pair is counted to the overall team score.

The winning score was Net 61 (-11) scored by Juliette Castell & Mitsuko Emmerson. The pair recorded eight net birdies and two net eagles with one of those net eagles occurring on the treacherous par three, 14th hole, courtesy of a gross two by Juliette.

In second place was the pair of Rony El Haber & Adam James with a score of Net 61 (-11). Unfortunately, it was not to be for the pair who narrowly missed out on countback to the eventual winners. The pair also recorded a net hole-in-one on the par three, 14th hole, although a costly bogey on the 18th would only be good enough for second place.

Third-place prize went to Martin Stewart & Bradley Stuart with a great score of Net 63 (-9). Congratulations to the pair as their score was good enough to claim third place outright even after a bogey on the par four, 17th hole.

There were two on-course competitions, winning Nearest the Pin on hole 14 was Jayson Hilton. Twelve players managed to beat Tommy Fleetwood Academy Teaching Professional Ginger Delacretaz who hit her shot to ten feet on the 8th hole. A draw took place for the players who manged to hit inside of Ginger’s ball, the winner for this goes to Adam James. Adam takes home his second prize of the evening after finishing runners up in the team overall

TOURNAMENT RESULTS

SUMMER PASS CHAMPIONSHIP

Saturday, 30th September 2023

Winning the No Handicap Division was Gordan Rotkvic with a score of 16 points winning a one-ball on the Links Course and a dozen Titleist Pro V1’ golf balls. The official handicap division was won by Barry Dwyer with a score of 44 points, just edging

out Pedro Duarte who scored 43 points during the event. As winner, Barry won a two-ball on the Links Course dozen Titleist Pro V1’s. Pedro’s performance saw him win a one-ball at Yas Links and a dozen Titleist Tru-Feel Balls.

YAS LINKS ABU DHABI MONTHLY MEDAL

LUCKIEST BALL ON EARTH QUALIFIER

Sunday, 8th October 2023

Congratulations to the winners in each division who all qualified for the Luckiest Ball On Earth grand finale at Jumeirah Golf Estates.

LUCKIEST BALL ON EARTH RESULTS

Gents Winner: Damon Mitchell (net 69)

Ladies Winner: Ying Hoong Fun (net 71)

Girls Junior Winner: N/A

Boys Junior Winner: Neyl Cherrat (net 77)

Net Winner: Damon Mitchell

Net Runner-Up: Karl Bishop

Net Third Place: Adam Highfield

Nearest The Pin: Mark O’Sullivan

YAS LINKS ABU DHABI MONTHLY MEDAL RESULTS

Beginning with division A 12 and below, runner-up was Karl Bishop with a score of net (71), (-1) under par.

Winner of division A went to Damon Mitchell with a fantastic score of net (69), (-3) under par.

In division B 13 and higher, runner-up went to Ying Hoong Fun with a score of net (71), (-1) under par. Winner of division B went to Saleh Al Ameri with a fantastic score of net (71), (-1) under par.

THE LINKS CHARITY GOLF DAY

Saturday, 14th October 2023

On behalf of Yas Links Abu Dhabi, Operation Smile and Marriott Business Council, the Club would like to thank you for your contribution to The Links Charity Golf Day on Saturday 14th October. It was a great day for all and, of course, for a good cause in Operation Smile who help give free surgeries to the one in 700 children who are born with Cleft Palate or Cleft Lip. The contribution to the event was phenomenal, raising AED 112,960 throughout the day.

Thank you to The Marriott Business Council, The Lighthouse Club and all other entities that donated prizes and sponsorship for the day we are grateful for the support from these partners and of course to you and your colleagues, friends and family who came and supported, donated, and contributed to Operation Smile.

The winners of the event were Damien Scott, Daniel Visagie, Jaco Grove & Buddie Ceronie from the Grosvenor House in Dubai who shot a superb 105 points.

Winners: Damien Scott, Daniel Visagie, Jaco Grove & Buddie Ceronie (105 points)

Runners-Up: Sonia Cox, Mark Cox, Deirdre Dudeney & Nicole Webber (96 points on count-back)

Third Place: Chris de Looze, Charles Batchelor, Patrick Morris & Nathan Waller (96 points)

Nearest to the Pin in two (Hole 7): Alexander Banks

Nearest to the Pin (Hole 8): Munir Virani

Nearest to the Pin (Hole 17): Ahmed Al Menhali

TOURNAMENT RESULTS

SOUTHERN

SOUTHERN SUN SUNDOWNER ROUND 11

Friday, 1st September 2023

First Place: Morris Lyness (22 points)

Runner-Up: Alex Heler (20 points)

Gents Nearest to the Pin: Jerome Martin

Gents Longest Drive: Jerome Martin

Ladies Longest Drive: Oksana Hess

SOUTHERN SUN SUNDOWNER ROUND 12

Friday, 8th September 2023

First Place: Rohan Patki (23 points)

Runner-Up: Michael Hess (20 points)

Gents Nearest to the Pin: Mark Harvey

Gents Longest Drive: Luke Joy

Ladies Longest Drive: Oksana Hess

SUN SUNDOWNER FINAL ROUND

Friday, 15th September 2023

First Place: Michael Neal (22 points)

Runner-Up: Barry Dwyer (21 points)

Gents Nearest to the Pin: Billy Newly

Gents Longest Drive: Khalid Askar

Ladies Longest Drive: Oksana Hess

The grand finale of the Southern Sun Sundowner series took place at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club as it was set to name the 10th Champion, taking the best eight scores within 13 rounds of the series.

Host of the event, Paul Simmons, tied fourth with Paul Kay with a total of 145 points over the series. Defending champion, Rohan Patki, scoring 20 points in the final round, came runner-up with a total of 150 points, beating Michael Sun on count-back.

The 2023 series named a new Southern Sun Sundowner champion, Khalid Askar, with a brilliant score of 152 points.

Well done to all our players and everyone who took part.

SAADIYAT SUMMER OPEN

Sunday, 17th September 2023

Despite the heat, the Saadiyat Summer Open produced a great turnout with a strong field and great competitive atmosphere going into the round. The Saadiyat Scratch team members, Kevin Moore and Phillip Khlor, got off to a great start, both being under par in their first few holes.

Scoring overall was tough, and the course held its own as players made it down the final stretch. It was going to be close one. Yas Links’ James Griffith managed four birdies on his way to a solid round of (73) to become the Saadiyat Summer Open champion. Very well played, James!

First Place: James Griffith (73)

Runner-Up: Kevin Moore (75)

Third Place: Mark Slater (77)

Nearest to the Pin: James Griffith Longest Drive: James Griffith

CLASH OF THE TITANS

Wednesday, 4th October 2023

Round One of the Clash of the Titans saw 80 golfers from Viya Golf and Dubai Golf come together for a great day of golf. The four teams, Emirates Golf Club, Dubai Creek, Jumeriah Golf Estates, and Viya Golf competed in what would end up being a very close competition with only four shots separating all four teams.

With the day providing some excellent scoring, the team of Jonathan O’Brien, Paul Byrne, Jake Carney and Darragh Duggan representing Emirates Golf Club finishing on top of the leader board shooting a score of net (53), (-19) under par.

However, this brilliant performance still make Emirates fall short on the team competition where Viya Golf were successful winning on their home ground with a team score of 76 under par, one shot ahead of Emirates Golf Club.

TOURNAMENT RESULTS

LADIES PINK DAY

Thursday, 5th October 2023

As part of the Breast Cancer Awareness month, Saadiyat hosted our Pink Ladies event, with a fantastic turnout of 66 ladies for the morning shotgun. The weather was unfortunately not in our favour with hot and humid conditions making the round very challenging!

Nevertheless, the ladies had a fantastic time in fancy dress, with a prize for the best dressed team on offer! After the round, there was a fantastic presentation on Breast Cancer Awareness which was extremely informative!

Along with the event, the Saadiyat Ladies raised a total of AED 6,250 for the Al Jalila Foundation for breast cancer research, a huge thank you to all the companies that donated raffle prizes on the day.

A huge thank you to our Ladies Captain & Vice- Captain Joyce Joman & Helene Simmons for their support which made the event a huge success! Unfortunately, this was Joyce’s last event as Lady Captain as she has made the move back home, her support and dedication to the ladies over her tenure has saw the group grow exponentially. We will miss you, Joyce!

EVENT RESULTS

First Place: Hannah Byun, Suyeon Ko & Haeyoung Han (56 points)

Runner-Up: Claudia Wallace, Quinta Woodward & Sana Tufail (54 points)

Third Place: Anna-Mari Bronkhorst, Marti Matthee & Orinda Tomorri (53 points)

LUCKIEST BALL ON EARTH

Sunday, 8th October 2023

Saadiyat Beach Golf Club hosted our Luckiest Ball on Earth qualifier on Sunday 8th October with the winner from each division getting the opportunity to represent the Club in the grand finale at Jumeriah Golf Estates on 4th November 2023.

In the Gents division, new Member, Barry Dwyer, eased his way to victory with a great score of net (68), meanwhile, in the Ladies division, Stephanie Bochet beat Carole Martin by one shot with a score of net (75).

INTERNATIONAL PAIRS QUALIFIER

Saturday, 14th October 2023

The International Pairs qualifying series saw a great turnout for the pairs better ball competition with the top three teams qualifying for the next round here in the UAE. With 11 teams within three shots of the winners, every point mattered coming down the stretch.

Paul Kay and Sheldon Ritchie managed to come third on count-back with a score of 40 points falling one point short of runner-up and first place. Pekka Ettala and Kevin Moore narrowly missed out on the victory with a score of 41 points, with Kevin Moore going (-5) under par in his last 10 holes.

The winners of the Saadiyat International Pairs Qualifier were Sara Ali and Andrew Wood with a score of 41 points, congratulations to both of you!

The gents’ junior section was tight, going down to the last where Aarav Ganguly held his nerve to beat Harry Parker on count-back with a score of net (77). Stealing the spotlight however was Zurich Kanokpornvasin winning the ladies junior section on her way to a very impressive score gross (64), (-8) under par, equalling the course record. Congratulations to all the winners, and best of luck representing the club at Jumeriah Golf Estates in November.

THIS IS WHY THE RYDER CUP IS SO SPECIAL TO ME AND TO THESE GUYS BECAUSE OF THESE MOMENTS. WE PLAY FOR EACH OTHER AND WE GET TO SHARE IN THAT SUCCESS TOGETHER.

LUKE DONALD

EUROPE CLAIM RYDER CUP

GLORY IN ITALY

Europe have defeated the United States 16½-11½ to regain the Ryder Cup and ensure their unbeaten run on home soil will continue to 34 years.

Tommy Fleetwood was the man to secure the vital point on a dramatic afternoon at Marco Simone Golf & Country Club where, despite Europe entering the singles with a commanding lead and never trailing, the U.S. threatened to complete a remarkable comeback.

The home side led 10½-5½ on Sunday morning, meaning the U.S. Team needed the biggest Ryder Cup comeback in history to win despite a rousing 3-1 session victory in Saturday afternoon’s four-balls.

Early European success got the home side to 14-7 but Matt Fitzpatrick missed an 18-footer on the last for the trophy as the Americans cut the gap to 14-11 following a strategic decision from Max Homa to take an unplayable that helped him halve the hole.

Fleetwood and Shane Lowry then both guaranteed at least half a point each before Fleetwood won the 17th against Rickie Fowler to secure a 3&1 victory and put the Ryder Cup back in European hands. European Captain Luke Donald - who was undefeated as a player in four Ryder Cups - was in tears after seeing Fleetwood and Lowry make sure of the half-points.

“I’m so emotional,” he said. “It’s been a long process, an amazing journey - I enjoyed this one.

“It was stressful, the U.S. put up a fight but I’m so proud of my 12 guys. We formed a

strong bond from day one and they gave me everything. They trusted me and they delivered for me.

“Our guys got off to a great start, the early guys which is what we needed. Wanted some blue on the board early and then a few matches changed to red and you just kept looking at the board, kept looking at the board.

“This is the best (moment of my career). This is why the Ryder Cup is so special to me and to these guys because of these moments. We play for each other and we get to share in that success together and we get to spend this week together and we’ll share those memories forever.

“Not many people gave us a chance after Whistling Straits. We were big underdogs. We started to show some form in the last six months and I couldn’t be happier with the team I got.

“I think these guys will be around for a long time and we’re going to put up a great fight in two years’ time.”

A 4-0 foursomes session victory for Europe on the first morning on Friday set the tone for the week and the home side led 9½-2½ after three sessions.

The U.S. fightback began as they took the Saturday four-balls and, while they managed a 6-6 tie across the singles, the mountain was too big to climb.

“If I have any reflection right now it’s that you take your hat off and tip your cap to Team Europe and to Luke - they played

great, they earned it and I was very impressed with them,” said U.S. Captain Zach Johnson.

“We got outplayed but we showed grit, we showed heart and it got interesting there.

“We had some momentum coming into the day and even some momentum during the day so I’m proud of my guys.

“They fought, they’ve got so much heart and grit, it’s not them, it’s on me and maybe some poor decisions. I can reflect at some point, I don’t have any idea yet but it’s not about those 12 guys. They played so hard for each other and our country and I’m grateful for each and every one of them.”

Viktor Hovland took the first point of the day, downing Collin Morikawa 4&3 in convincing fashion before Jon Rahm hit the green in two at the par-five last and cosied a 90-foot putt up to the side of the pin to win the hole and seal a half-point against Scottie Scheffler.

Patrick Cantlay - the U.S. talisman of Saturday evening - held off a spirited comeback from Justin Rose in a 2&1 win before Rory McIlroy secured some Ryder Cup redemption from Whistling Straits. The Northern Irishman was in tears two years ago after taking one point from four and sitting out a session for the first time in his career in the chastening, record-breaking 19-9 defeat in Wisconsin.

Europe’s most experienced player was emotional again after his 3&1 win over Sam Burns took him to a career-best four points in a single Ryder Cup and at that point Europe led 13-7 - but there was a sea of red in the middle of the board.

Tyrrell Hatton beat Brian Harman 3&2 to stay undefeated for the week and deny the United States the chance of victory but the visitors were still very much in with a chance of retaining, holding leads in the next four matches while Europe only had narrow advantages in the final two.

Brooks Koepka completed a convincing 3&2 win over Ludvig Åberg and there was then drama on the last as, after Max Homa found an unplayable lie, Matt Fitzpatrick had 18 feet for the hole and the vital half-point that would win the trophy.

The Englishman missed and then Homa showed nerves of steel from seven feet to keep his country alive with a 1 UP win. Xander Schauffele won the 15th and 16th to close out a 3&2 win over Nicolai Højgaard and Justin Thomas beat Sepp Straka 2 UP but the tide was turning towards Europe in match 11.

Fleetwood and Fowler had been nip and tuck and while the Englishman was 2 UP with five to play, a Fowler birdie won the 14th. The pivotal moment then came on the 16th when Fowler put his tee-

shot into the water and Fleetwood drove the green at the par four, cosying his putt to concession range to ensure a European victory. It was confirmed on the next when the 32-year-old put his tee-shot to three feet, with Fowler conceding after missing his birdie effort.

“It was a bit bigger than I thought I was going to have when we saw the draw,” he said. “But just so proud of being part of this team.

“We have an amazing group of people. We always do. This year has obviously been different and the landscape has changed a little bit for Team Europe.

“I couldn’t wish for a better bunch of people to do this with. It’s honestly been so amazing and everybody is so great. We are just one gigantic family, and the bonds we made with everybody will last a lifetime and just to be part of it is a cool experience.”

Jordan Spieth had been 3 UP against Lowry but the Irishman fought back for tie, conceding the 18th with the trophy already won, while Robert MacIntyre beat Wyndham Clark 2&1 in the anchor match to take 2½ points from three matches on his Ryder Cup debut.

INTERNSHIP TO THE 2023 RYDER CUP

THE MEMORABLE MOMENTS MADE WITH EMIRATES GOLF CLUB’S JORDAN SMALLEY

IN OCTOBER 2021, MY GREENKEEPING JOURNEY STARTED WHEN I JOINED EMIRATES GOLF CLUB AS AN INTERN IN THE GOLF COURSE MAINTENANCE TEAM. VERY OVERWHELMED COMING OUT OF SOUTH AFRICA INTO THE ‘CONCRETE JUNGLE’, I WAS WELCOMED WITH OPEN ARMS AND COULDN’T OF ASKED FOR ANYTHING MORE.

My initial expectations for my experience here was to gain as much knowledge as possible, and colleagues like Matthew Perry, Mario Sumanga and all of the team within the Golf Course Maintenance team, made everything I have achieved so much easier. A massive challenge for me coming into the internship role was knowing how many cultures and languages I had to adapt to, but this has helped me build relationships that I will cherish forever.

Another challenge I faced were the long hours I worked during the DP World Tour’s Dubai Desert Classic and DP World Tour Championship preparation. Both very different tournaments, and definitely not for the faint hearted. These experiences were all worth the 16-hour days because at the end of the experiences, I came out feeling like I had achieved something amazing and made a different, growing my love for the job even more.

My seven-month internship came to an end in April 2022 and during the last month of the experience, I received an offer to continue my journey with Dubai Golf as Second Assistant Superintendent at Emirates Golf Club. I’ve been in this new position for just over a year now and couldn’t be happier or more excited to grow in this field of work.

DURING MY EMIRATES GOLF CLUB EXPERIENCE, ANOTHER OPPORTUNITY CAME UP. AFTER THE HERO DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC IN 2023, MATTHEW PERRY APPROACHED ME WITH THE OPPORTUNITY TO VOLUNTEER AT THE 2023 RYDER CUP IN ROME.

KNOWING THAT THIS IS ONE OF THE MOST EXCITING AND PRESTIGIOUS TOURNAMENTS IN THE WORLD, IT WAS AN EXPERIENCE I COULD NOT PASS UP. A FEW MONTHS LATER, THERE I WAS, STANDING OUTSIDE THE TERMINAL ABOUT TO HEAD OVER TO ROME.

During the Ryder Cup, I had the privilege of changing cups. What an experience that was! Over the three-day event, where on the first two days, the matches are split into morning and afternoon starts, we needed to change the cups in the morning, and once the players had gone through the first couple of holes, we would have to go back to the first green to change the cups again for the afternoon field.

The highlight of my experience was changing the cups for the second half of the day, because when you are going from green to green, you get to see all the spectators enjoying themselves in the Hospitality grandstands. This meant every time you would walk onto each green with the hole cutter to change the position of the pin, we had this amazing interaction with the spectators, starting with them cheering for you, and booing at you when the pin position wasn’t close enough to them to see the upcoming action.

Meeting all the volunteers that worked alongside me was another highlight of my time there. Having met Superintendents, Assistant Superintendents, and apprentices from all over the world within the industry was extremely special. Being able to build relationships and see how diverse the greenkeeping community is, was truly remarkable.

Everything I have experienced thus far has been life changing and it has given me a great foundation to build a successful career within this industry. I can’t wait to see what the future will hold for me as a Greenkeeper.

WITHIN MY JOURNEY AS A GREENKEEPER, THE 2023 RYDER CUP WILL BE ONE OF MY MOST MEMORABLE MOMENTS THAT I CAN HARDLY EXPLAIN, AND I WOULD HAVE TO SAY THAT YOU HAD TO BE THERE TO FEEL THE ATMOSPHERE AND THE HYPE OF IT. I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!

JORDAN SMALLEY

AMATEURS BEAT PROFESSIONALS TO BRING HOME 2023 DUBAI GOLF TROPHY

The amateurs have claimed back the Dubai Golf Trophy from the professionals 19.5 – 12.5 after two days comprising of 54 holes of competition over the Earth Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates and the Championship Course at Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club.

The annual tournament hosts the top 16 professionals vs the top 16 amateurs in the UAE which is now in its 24th edition. With each team of 16 players consisting of twelve automatic qualifiers from the season-long UAE PGA tournaments and qualifying Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) events across the UAE. In addition, the team captains welcomed four ‘wild card’ picks, and two ladies on both sides.

Amateurs held four point lead into final day.

After day one on Sunday, the amateurs were leading 10-6 over the professionals after the Foursome and Fourball sessions, giving them the momentum leading into Mondays final day singles matches.

A lead eventually just too big for the professionals to fight back from as the amateurs won nine of their 16 singles matches to seal

the deal and bring back the Dubai Golf Trophy into their hands in which they lost out on last year. The biggest scalp on the day was claimed by professional Matt Brookes (Dubai Creek) winning 7&6 over Dan Byrne (The Els Club). While also a mention to a few big amateur victories in Jake Wiltshire (Abu Dhabi City Golf Club) 5&3 over Sam McLaren (Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club), Simon Dunn (Tower Links Golf Club) beating Purna Sharma (Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club) 6&4, and Rami Samawi (The Els Club) winning 5&4 over David Gray (Golf Souk).

The winning moment where the amateurs won back the Dubai Golf Trophy was in match eight where Jules Lompech (Abu Dhabi Golf Club) tied on the very last hole with David Guinee (Trump International Dubai Golf Club).

Playing alongside was the Ladies Challenge Match, the same format between two professionals and two amateur Ladies. It was again a win for the amateurs as the pair of Aoife Kelly (Trump International Dubai Golf Club) and Jamie Camero (The Els Club) defeated the professionals in Olivia Jackson (Emirates Golf Club) and Lea Pouillard (Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club) 3–1.

Around about this time last year, a Dubai-based school pupil was turning heads in the golfing world as she defied the odds and some of the world’s greatest players to claim her maiden professional title at the Aramco Team Series — Jeddah event.

Now 17-year-old Chiara Noja is heading back to Saudi Arabia to defend her crown — this time at Riyadh Golf Club in the capital — in very different circumstances.

An LPGA bow, major debuts, injuries — and, yes, school studies — have all added to an eventful, jet-setting 12 months for the young German. Golf Digest Middle East caught up with her ahead of her title defence.

“It’s crazy to think it has been a year already,” Chiara tells us fresh from a few days of preparation at Plantation Golf & Country Club in Florida ahead of her tilt at LPGA Q-School this month. “Obviously this is going to be a cool experience for me as defending champ and an opportunity to reminisce on those great memories. It’s going to be a new course so it’ll be exciting seeing the tournament take shape somewhere new.”

Noja is now well-practised in balancing studies and life on tour, but as she is sitting her GCSEs, fitting in time to get to know the Riyadh layout is trickier than ever.

“I’m going to be flying out later this week to play my practice rounds as I won’t have much time prior due to exams,” she tells us near the end of September. “I guess I will have a little more insight then, but I have heard lots of positive things about it so I’m excited to head over.”

Noja played through the pain barrier with a shoulder problem at her first two majors and missed the cut at both the Amundi Evian Championship and AIG Women’s Open, but she is glad she got to experience the ‘big-time’ first hand.

“It was a super cool experience having earned my way into those events, but it obviously was a tough few weeks for me,” she says. “I struggled with injury, and I guess it’s a difficult conversation to have — I knew I was not in a great place but made the choice to try and play regardless. If given the chance would I go back and change that decision? No. Do I think it was a great decision? Maybe not.”

Following the Women’s Open, Noja took some well-earned time off to recuperate ahead of the Q-School and Aramco Team Series stretch this month.

“Yeah, I think it was necessary that I focus on getting better after basically playing in pain for six weeks,” she says. “It was important for me to get healthy before going back out on tour, and I’m glad to be 99 per cent there and use the next few weeks to prep before ATS Hong Kong [October 6-8].

“I flew out to Florida to play practice rounds ahead of the LPGA Q-School as the schedule is very tight in October, so it’s good to be able to spend the next few weeks practising skills I may need to cater for those courses. Then it is going to be an exciting week in Saudi.”

The Golf Saudi Ambassador is a champion of bringing the game of golf to new audiences, and is keen to meet aspiring golfers in the Saudi capital. “I think it’s super exciting, obviously with Riyadh there will be a new, and wider, audience that we can cater to and hopefully continue to grow the game of golf in Saudi.

“The ATS events have really solidified themselves within the golfing calendar and that has been awesome to see. The events have grown both geographically, with events expanding and taking place all over the world, and in popularity. The initiatives taken to grow the game are great, and I have been lucky to be able to partake in clinics along the way, and have a first row seat to seeing both kids and adults join us in our love for the game of golf.”

DUBAI TEEN NOJA

HEADING BACK TO SAUDI

MCILROY SET TO TEE IT UP AT INAUGURAL DUBAI INVITATIONAL

RORY MCILROY WILL BE LOOKING TO START THE YEAR OFF ON A HIGH NOTE WHEN HE RETURNS TO DUBAI FOR THE INAUGURAL EDITION OF THE DUBAI INVITATIONAL FROM JANUARY 11-14, 2024.

The World Number Two is set to tee it up in the new four-day event at Dubai Creek Resort which sees a 72-hole strokeplay DP World Tour tournament played concurrently with a three-day Pro-Am team event, with Sunday featuring professionals only.

The Northern Irishman has tasted success in Dubai on five occasions and the 34-year-old will spend back-to-back weeks at DP World Tour events in the United Arab Emirates to start his 2024 season.

McIlroy headlines the field at the Dubai Invitational and will then shift his focus with the aim to create history as the first four-time winner of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic when he returns to defend his title at the Emirates Golf Club from January 18-21, 2024.

The Ryder Cup star is also the reigning European Number One having claimed the season long Race to Dubai Rankings in Partnership with Rolex on four occasions, including last year.

He currently tops the Rankings heading into the season-ending DP World Tour Championship, Dubai in two weeks’ time.

“I’m really excited to start my year at the Dubai Invitational,” said McIlroy. “I’ve always enjoyed coming back to Dubai to set up my season and with a pro-am format, this tournament is going to be an enjoyable week.

“Dubai Creek Resort is a fantastic course and given the support we get in Dubai from the fans, I’m sure they are going to make it another great week on the golfing calendar.”

The first event on the International Swing on the DP World Tour’s new 2024 schedule, the Dubai Invitational will be played bi-annually in 2024, 2026 and 2028, and consists of 60 professional DP World Tour golfers, and 60 amateur golfers.

Tournament host Abdulla Al Naboodah, added: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Rory McIlroy to the Dubai Invitational at Dubai Creek Resort.

“The United Arab Emirates has played a significant role in the global growth of golf, with its world-class courses and enthusiastic golfing community.

The inaugural Dubai Invitational will welcome global business leaders and celebrities from around the world to play alongside some of the world’s top professionals over three days and Rory’s participation further underscores the UAE’s prominence in the international golfing landscape.”

Fans can attend the Dubai Invitational by registering in advance for free General Admission tickets here, with the opportunity to witness top-class golf and enjoy a range of entertainment options around the course.

UAE TEEN MAYA MAKING HISTORY AT ARAMCO TEAM SERIES FINALE IN RIYADH

MAYA PALANZA GAUDIN MADE THE GOLFING WORLD TAKE NOTE OF THE LATEST TEENAGE PRODUCT TO EMERGE FROM THE UAE, WITH WINS IN SCOTLAND, INDIA, ABU DHABI, BOSTON — AND AT THE FAMOUS AUGUSTA NATIONAL IN THE DRIVE, CHIP & PUTT NATIONAL FINALS.

Now she is in Saudi Arabia after receiving an invite to compete in the Aramco Team Series finale at Riyadh Golf Course as the youngest amateur at the first ever professional golf event in the Kingdom’s capital.

Golf Digest Middle East caught up with Maya, her father Stephen, and coach (and caddie this week) Yasin Ali, the head professional instructor at JA Resort and Golf in Dubai, following some practice holes with Minjee Lee and as they awaited to hear the draw on Wednesday evening and discover which team the 13-year-old will be playing for Friday and Saturday.

“Augusta was amazing, and we got to hang around to watch the players play the Masters on the weekend,” she said. “Following that, we headed back up north to practise in cooler weather and kind of try to stay locally and compete in a few events around New England so I could stay in a community. It accumulated when I won the New England PGA Player of the Year award.

“I was moved up from the 13-and-under group as we decided it was the best way to go and gain experience.”

“Yes, these were proper events, minimum of 36 holes, multiple days, no caddies and no spectators,” added Stephen. “I had to wait at the clubhouse as we were not allowed out on course. So she was literally on her own out there.”

Despite a whirlwind year, Maya’s career is still in its very early stages, and she has to concentrate on school studies, too.

“I started two years ago in seventh grade with the US Performance Academy, which is basically an online school, which is great to help balance my school and golf,” she explained. “You pretty much roll out of bed, go to the computer and you are at school, then afterwards I go to the golf course or range. It gives me more time and more leeway. If, say, I had a tournament in the middle of the week, I

wouldn’t do any school during the event, but I would do more before and after to keep up. Just like I am doing this week in Riyadh.”

Dad adds: “The USPA virtual school system is something we wouldn’t have even considered until Covid came around. But it has been around for a lot longer than that, and was set up by a bunch of Olympic athletes, to help others who maybe have to go to Switzerland for skiing or Australia for sailing. So it is great for young kids who want to pursue their athletic ability but also combine it with their schooling.”

Covid did bring other issues, however, and the family kitted out one of the rooms with a hitting net, cage to keep the windows safe, and a SkyTrack system.

“We jerry-rigged all this ourselves and attached a monitor so it was like playing on the course when we were stuck at home,” explained Stephen.

Coach Yasin has been a vital cog in Maya’s development, both online and in person when they get the chance to meet up, like in Riyadh this week.

“It is great doing virtual work with Coach, but it is always better to meet in person, so he can help me with my swing,” Maya said. “He is also a great caddie so I am thrilled he will be with me out on the course this week. He really helps out with the technical stuff in his head, then tells me the club and shot. It helps keep me calm, and when I am calm, I play much better.”

Stephen added: “I have played a lot of sports over the years, and I have never seen as great a coach as he is on a one-to-one basis. You see it in his personality — very warm, friendly, he knows when to push and when to back off.”

When the draft was finally made on Wednesday evening, Maya learnt her playing partners — captain Pauline Roussin, the French star who claimed the ATS Singapore Individual title. They will be joined by Linnea Johansson and Marta Sanz Barrio for the Friday and Saturday team competition before the final day of individual competition on Sunday.

“It is exciting to now know who my captain will be and I can’t wait to get out on the course with my team,” Maya concluded.

Time flies. Viya Golf have just overseen their first year operating three of the top golf clubs in the UAE capital — Yas Links Abu Dhabi, Yas Acres Golf & Country Club and Saadiyat Beach Golf Club — and Golf Digest Middle East caught up with Cluster Club Manager Julian Danby to take us through the journey so far and explain what more they have in store.

Viya have been operating in Abu Dhabi for 12 months now at three marvellous golf courses. How has the journey been — personally and for the company — over the past year and how was such a move made possible to further help promote the UAE capital as a global destination for both tourists and sports?

The expansion of our business into Abu Dhabi, under the brand of Viya Golf (a subsidiary of Dubai Golf), was an instrumental move that sets out the future direction of our growth strategy, which is to expand management operations of leading world-class golf and leisure facilities, as well as our proprietary Viya application, to support these operations commercially. It is also the first time we have operated outside of Dubai, within the UAE, and to have the opportunity to partner with Aldar and manage some of the most iconic golf facilities in the region, was a true privilege.

As the capital’s leadership continues to accelerate its Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 plan, our move to Abu Dhabi clearly came at

SPEAKS TO VIYA’S JULIAN DANBY AFTER A SUCCESSFUL FIRST YEAR IN ABU DHABI

an exciting time. We had an opportunity to not only work alongside key government stakeholders to contribute to their collective goals, but we also played a key role in driving new golfers and tourism into the capital.

For me personally, I am loving life in Abu Dhabi. After spending 25 years in Dubai, it came at a great time in my career and I feel that with my experience and the support of our great team, we can really make a difference to the overall golf proposition. We are grateful that Abu Dhabi had a great base to build on, and our mission over the next few years is to raise the bar in terms of facilities, which takes investment in infrastructure, and in customer service, which is an investment in people.

THERE

WAS THE MAJOR, AND EXCITING, NEWS RECENTLY THAT THE ABU DHABI HSBC CHAMPIONSHIP WILL MOVE FROM ITS TRADITIONAL JANUARY SLOT AFTER 17 YEARS TO FORM PART OF A SEASON-ENDING PLAYOFF WITH THE DP WORLD TOUR CHAMPIONSHIP IN DUBAI. WHAT DOES THIS MOVE MEAN?

This announcement was incredible for Abu Dhabi and for Yas Links, as it means that the best of the best on the DP World Tour will now

participate in the penultimate event on the season long Race To Dubai order of merit. This will undoubtedly get more eyeballs on Abu Dhabi and attract greater numbers of tourists to the capital, not only for the event, but also to play the Abu Dhabi courses through the popular winter months. It was also great recognition to our agronomy team, ably led by Corey Finn, who continues to deliver a masterpiece of a Kyle Philips-designed golf course.

AND A COLLECTIVE $19 MILLION PRIZE FUND FOR THE TWO-EVENT FINALE IS PRETTY HELPFUL TOO!

I know right! They say in life that it’s never too late. I’m really enjoying playing amateur golf again after nearly 30 years as a PGA Professional, however with this kind of money, I may have to think about turning pro again and having a crack at the Seniors Tour! Joking aside, the prize purses of the last two play-off events of the 2024 season will undoubtedly attract the best golfers in the world, which can only be positive for the growth of golf in the UAE.

SO THE FUTURE IS LOOKING BRIGHT. WHERE DOES VIYA GO FROM HERE TO SUSTAIN AND ENHANCE THIS SUCCESS TO ENSURE MAINTAINED GROWTH AND ENGAGEMENT WITH GOLFERS OF ALL AGES?

For the future sustainability of golf in Abu Dhabi, it’s essential that we grow the number of golfers. This can only come from expatriate residents and UAE nationals. We are working closely with the Emirates Golf Federation and the R&A to initiate exciting programmes

that will attract new golfers to this incredible sport, from five-yearolds all the way to retirement age. Golf is a sport for all ages and I’ll highly recommend anyone to give it a try.

THE THREE CLUBS IN ABU DHABI, HOW WILL THEY TAKE IT FROM HERE — BOTH ON AND OFF THE COURSE — TO STAY AT THE TOP OF THE GAME?

The next few years is all about reinvestment into the facilities and our people, to continue to raise the bar on these amazing facilities and to improve the overall customer experience. We want to position Abu Dhabi as a truly inspiring place to come to play and learn golf, and with the support of our partner Aldar, and key government stakeholders, we believe we can achieve amazing things.

DO YOU TAKE PERSONAL PRIDE IN HOW FAR VIYA GOLF AND ITS PARTNERS HAVE TAKEN THE GAME OR, LIKE ON THE COURSE IN SOME PLACES THESE DAYS, IS THIS A TEAM SUCCESS?

Viya Golf is a subsidiary of Dubai Golf, and we are essentially one company. Dubai Golf have led the development of golf, leisure and hospitality in the region for decades and I feel incredibly proud to be a part of such a dynamic and diverse team. Since the first Dubai Desert Classic back in 1988, we now proudly host three Rolex Series events and a new DP World Tour event inaugurating at Dubai Creek in 2024. The future looks bright and I’m excited to see where it will lead.

ANANTARA EASTERN MANGROVES HOTEL

AN URBAN SANCTUARY IN ABU DHABI

Anantara Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel blends a convenient urban location with an inspirational waterfront setting. The hotel is located at Eastern Mangroves in Abu Dhabi city, an integrated marina, retail, and residential destination, situated along a 1.2 km stretch of protected mangrove reserve.

Offering a scenic urban escape, Anantara Eastern Mangroves provides the ideal location for business and leisure travellers alike, located 20 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport, 7 minutes from Al Bateen Executive Airport and 10 minutes from Abu Dhabi’s key business centre and downtown attractions.

Carefully designed to protect and enhance the precious natural mangrove setting, a celebration of Arabic architectural heritage is expressed in prestigious archways, mashrabiyas, intricate mosaics, solid timber,

and trellis work, as well as subtle touches of 18 carat gold. Elegant grandeur is balanced by the warmth of traditional Arabic culture and Anantara’s renowned Asian hospitality. Rich Emirati influences preside from the moment of arrival, with guests greeted in the lobby by an offering of local dates and traditional coffee, as well as sensual scents wafting from a burning bakhour.

Spread over five levels, 222 spacious guest rooms and suites are triple glazed to ensure a peaceful stay and are designed to reflect the region’s regal opulence. Most impressively, The Royal Mangroves Suite, the largest suite in Abu Dhabi.

Ideally suited to dignitaries and VIPs, this one-of-a- kind penthouse duplex boasts up to ten bedrooms, a private ten-meter rooftop pool with a swim-up bar, and its own dedicated entrance. Anantara Eastern Mangroves

capitalises on its waterfront setting perfectly. Guests can relax by the pool and soak up tranquil mangrove views. The more energetic can take out a kayak and explore the lush mangrove reserve, or walk, jog and cycle along a promenade that borders the waterway, Abu Dhabi’s old corniche.

After a day of business deals or city exploration, guests return to enjoy a choice of four restaurants and bars, each offering a distinctive culinary experience. Ingredients, the all-day dining venue, displays a delicious international and Middle Eastern buffet.

The Pool Deck is a casual al fresco-dining destination offering fine bites and refreshments, while the Mangroves Lounge, located in the lobby, is the perfect place for a meeting over coffee.

The stylish rooftop lounge, Impressions, is an exclusive nightlife destination where guests can admire uninterrupted views of the mangroves, the twinkling lights of the city skyline, as well as

Saadiyat and Reem islands. With a focus on indulgent relaxation, Anantara Spa pampers guests with journeys of therapeutic sensuality. Designed with separate lobby entrances for men and women, ten single and double treatment suites are joined by a traditional Turkish hammam, two Vichy shower rooms, an LPG room for lipomassage and endermologie, outdoor private jacuzzis, as well as a hair and beauty salon.

Choose from an extensive treatment menu, which incorporates indigenous wellness wisdom, Asia’s timeless traditions and innovative contemporary techniques. The Fitness Center invites guests to enjoy yoga and various fitness classes at two state-of-the-art gyms, accessible 24/7 for hotel guests, with one space exclusively for ladies. Personal training sessions are also available for those with a goal in mind.

For bookings and further information contact: +971 02 656 1000 or email easternman- groves@anantara.com

VIYA SPOTLIGHT

WELLNESS HOLISTIC HEALING

Viya proudly introduces three new luxurious spas located within Fairmont hotels in the UAE, each offering an unparalleled experience:

Wellness Holistic Healing: Dubai, Ajman, Fujairah

Dubai: Located at the iconic Fairmont Dubai Sheikh Zayed Road, this wellness retreat is designed for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation in the heart of the city.

Ajman: Nestled within the serene beauty of Fairmont Ajman, this sanctuary seamlessly blends tranquillity and wellness.

Fujairah: Situated along the picturesque shores of Fairmont Fujairah Beach Resort, this destination seamlessly combines the allure of the sea with wellness and luxury.

NEW OUTLETS

FEATURED PARTNER AL HABTOOR POLO RESORT

Nestled in the heart of the Dubai desert, Al Habtoor Polo Resort is a luxurious oasis that seamlessly combines the thrill of polo with world-class hospitality. With lush green polo fields, elegant accommodations, gourmet dining, and a lavish spa, it offers an unforgettable experience for both equestrian enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil escape. It’s a destination where the excitement of the sport of kings meets the grandeur of Arabian hospitality. Check out all five of their new venues on Viya and earn 10% back in rewards points at all five.

RISEN CAFÉ & ARTISANAL BAKERY

We’re thrilled to welcome Risen to Viya at three prime locations: Barsha Heights, Jumeirah Village Circle, and Business Bay. An artisanal bakery and café, that is committed to sustainability and local sourcing. Their menu features classic and specialty confectioneries, pastries, and cafe-style dishes.

They offer a variety of freshly baked bread options, including vegan and low-GI choices, as well as artisanal breads like sourdough, rye, ciabatta, brioche, focaccia, and more.

Experience an unforgettable festive journey with an array of o erings to make this year's holiday season truly enchanting.

dubaigolf.com/festive | viyagolf.com/festive