DHS 15
OMEGA ON COURSE THE SWISS BRAND’S MAJOR IMPACT ON INTERNATIONAL GOLF For the 9th consecutive year, OMEGA is proudly assuming its title sponsorship of the golf tournament known as the “Major of the Middle East”. The OMEGA Dubai Desert Classic has been part of the European Tour since its inception in 1989. For more than 25 years, the tournament has been a celebration of golfing excellence and OMEGA is proud to have served as title sponsor since 2010. Today, the OMEGA Dubai Desert Classic remains just as exciting and important for players and spectators alike. Along with this tournament, the brand is also the title sponsor of the OMEGA Dubai Ladies Classic. As title sponsor of two of the most prestigious sporting events in the Middle East, it’s clear that OMEGA’s commitment to golf is steadily growing, both in the region and around the world.
Further proof can be seen in OMEGA’s partnership with the PGA of America, which gives the brand a presence at all of the Association’s tournaments, including the illustrious PGA Championship, and the Ryder Cup when it is contested in the USA. As one of the most renowned Swiss watchmakers, OMEGA also retains a home connection to golf through its title
sponsorship of the OMEGA European Masters – played in the spectacular Swiss location of Crans-Montana. Finally, it is essential to mention OMEGA’s roster of brand ambassadors which includes a number of current stars including Rory McIlroy, Sergio Garcia and Michelle Wie.
WINNER’S WATCH The OMEGA Seamaster Aqua Terra is a worthy prize for the champion of the tournament. Presented on a brown leather strap, the symmetrical 41 mm case has been created in 18K Sedna™ gold and features a brown sun-brushed dial distinguished by a horizontal “teak” pattern, inspired by the wooden decks of luxury sailboats. There is also a date window at 6 o’clock and 18K Sedna™ gold hands and indexes filled with white Super-LumiNova. The winner’s watch is powered by the OMEGA Master Chronometer calibre 8901, certified at the industry’s highest level by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS).
ONE SHOT TO WIN AN OMEGA The coveted “hole in one” is an icon of precision and skill. For players who achieve this milestone, it’s a moment that will be remembered forever. That’s why OMEGA is proud to offer a timeless prize, awarded to those at the Dubai Desert Classic who sink a hole in just one shot. During the tournament, OMEGA installs on the 7th hole, a par 3 opportunity to make European Tour history. The first player to shoot a hole in one will be
rewarded with a Seamaster Aqua Terra 150M men’s watch. This luxurious 41 mm timepiece in 18K Sedna™ gold and stainless steel, features a silvery dial with horizontal “teak” pattern. On the inside, the watch is driven by OMEGA’s revolutionary Co-Axial Master Chronometer calibre 8900, a high standard of quality that is perfectly suited to a player with unrivalled accuracy.
OVER the past 34 years, Dubai Duty Free (DDF) has become a highly recognised global brand that has shown considerable sales growth, consistently setting new retail milestones, when it recorded sales figures turnover of Dhs7.05 billion (US$1.93 billion) for 2017. While the successful running of the shopfloor is a major focus for Dubai Duty Free, the operation is highly committed to promoting Dubai through a series of high level sporting events. With the sporting ‘season’ in Dubai commencing in February with the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, Dubai Duty Free will entertain guests in style at the Emirates Golf Club throughout the tournament period and will conduct a draw to win a Mercedes Benz S500 in Dubai Duty Free’s Finest Surprise Promotion on the last day. Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice- President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, The Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships (19th Feb-3rd March) which is owned and organised by Dubai Duty Free, will return for its 26th year. Comprising a Premier tournament played back-toback with an ATP 500 tournament, again the award-winning tournament will attract the best of the best from both men and women players battling it out to win the coveted trophy. International horse racing has provided an excellent medium for Dubai Duty Free to capture the global media attention and the Dubai Duty Free Stakes in the UK in April, the
8
DUBAI DUTY FREE BUILDING BRANDS THROUGH SPORTS SPONSORSHIPS
2017 OMEGA DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC CHAMPION, SERGIO GARCIA WITH COLM MCLOUGHLIN, E XECUTIVE VICE CHAIRMAN AND CEO OF DUBAI DUTY FREE ALONG WITH R AMESH CIDAMBI, COO, SALAH TAHLAK, EVP-CORPORATE SERVICES AND SINEAD EL SIBAI, SVP-M ARKETING.
Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup (Ascot) in August, the Dubai Duty Free International Raceday in Newbury in September are part of the operation’s racing sponsorship in the UK. The operation is also the title sponsor of one of the biggest race in Europe, the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby, which will be held at the Curragh Racecourse in June. The operation will also return to Ireland for the 4th Dubai Duty Free Irish Open to be held at Ballyliffin Golf Club from 5th - 8th July. The tournament, which is hosted by the Rory Foundation, has become part of the Rolex Series and offers prize money of US$7 million. Other sports to benefit from Dubai Duty Free’s support include the Dubai Duty Free Golf World Cup and the Emirates Airlines Dubai Rugby 7’s to name a few. By supporting so many events at the highest level and all around the globe, Dubai Duty Free is effectively promoting Dubai’s sporting, leisure and business facilities, which are second to none. And with more and more world-class sportspeople choosing Dubai to showcase their talent, there is set to be much more to come in the future.
W W W. O M E G A D UW B AWI W D E. G SO E R L F T C I NL D AU SB SA I CI . C O M
HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai
HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council
WELCOME to Dubai
A
very warm welcome to the Omega Dubai Desert Classic being staged once again at the iconic Emirates Golf Club. The ever developing Dubai skyline, which provides such a stunning backdrop for the Tournament, reflects the dramatic growth and dynamism of the city and makes visiting the Majlis Course an unforgettable experience. Fondly referred to as the “Major of the Middle East”, the Omega Dubai Desert Classic once again boasts a strong field of competitors combining many established stars with an exciting crop of young players eager to match their success. The Tournament has a tradition of encouraging emerging talent and 2018 will be no exception. The top three MENA Tour professionals (Jamie Elson, Henric Sturehed and Luke Joy) along with the leading amateur (Todd Clements) have earned special invitations and they will be joined by Dubai-based Rayhan Thomas, the top ranked amateur in the region. All of them will relish the prospect of competing with the world's best and measuring their skills against players of such proven quality as Sergio Garcia, Rory McIlroy and Henrik Stenson. Now in its 29th year, the Omega Dubai Desert Classic is the longest running European Tour event in the region and I would like to acknowledge the consistent and unflinching support of our sponsors and all those involved in staging the Tournament. Omega, our title sponsor, and Emirates Global Aluminium, our founding partner, deserve special mention and our thanks go also to our family of partners – CNN, EmiratesNBD, Gulf News, MercedesBenz and wasl alongside our patrons – Byrne Equipment Rental, Dubai Duty Free, Motivate Publishing and Neocasa Interiors. We are enormously grateful to Emirates Golf Club for once again presenting its magnificent golf course in outstanding condition and for the very special reception provided to players, fans and guests alike. A big thank you too goes to the students of Dubai College and to our team of marshals who do so much to ensure the success and enjoyment of the event. One final thought – the last two winners of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, Danny Willett and Sergio Garcia, have gone on to win The Masters Tournament at Augusta just two short months later. Can we make it three in a row? I hope you all have a wonderful week.
PETER DAWSON Chairman Omega Dubai Desert Classic
10
W W W. O M E G A D U B A I D E S E R T C L A S S I C . C O M
WELCOME
from the European Tour
W
elcome once again to Emirates Golf Club for the 29th edition of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, and tournament seven on the 2018 Race to Dubai. The longest running event in the European Tour’s ‘desert swing’ has always proved popular with the biggest stars in golf, and this year is no different, as we welcome a field packed with past champions and Major winners. Defending champion Sergio Garcia will be aiming for more of the same, after kick-starting the most successful season of his career with victory at this event last year before going on to seal his maiden Major title at Augusta National. Indeed, victory at the Omega Dubai Desert Classic has proved to be fortuitous for the last two winners, with Danny Willett also going on to wear the Green Jacket in 2016. We are also delighted to see four-time Major winner Rory McIlroy back in Dubai for his 12th appearance at this event, as aims to join fellow multiple Major champion Ernie Els as the only player to win the title three times – although Els will have ambitions to add to his own tally this year. Our sincere thanks go to the promoters of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, who have been instrumental in the success and growth of this tournament, and indeed golf in the region, for many years. The continued commitment of title sponsor Omega is also vital, and much appreciated. We also thank Emirates Global Aluminium, all of the tournament sponsors, and every one of those involved in bringing this fantastic week of golf to life. The city of Dubai provides a stunning back drop to the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, but equally impressive are the Majlis championship course and surrounding world-class facilities, and our thanks go to Emirates Golf Club for providing such a superb venue for players and fans alike this week. I hope you have an enjoyable week.
KEITH PELLEY Chief Executive The European Tour
OMEGA DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC
11
PATRON & OFFICIAL PUBLISHER
Covering the
for more than two decades
As the tournament’s patron and official publisher, Motivate has been there every step of the way. That’s every drive, every putt and every shot, covered, since 1995. We’re also proud to say we’ve supported the region’s growth too – we’re 38 years strong, and like the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, getting bigger and better every year.
motivatepublishing.com
CONTENTS 14
42
USEFUL TIPS
PAT PEREZ
Etiquette for golf spectators
The volcano is set to erupt in Dubai
18 PROGRAMME OF EVENTS COURSE MAP Information and times
44 RORY MCILROY Eager to get back to work
20 The Majlis Course lowdown
ERNIE ELS Still plenty left in the tank
25
48
PRIZE MONEY What the players stand to win
28 32
Fond memories of the Majlis
Restoring hope, saving lives
Hard work paying off
52
36
Instagram star is the new voice
Hoping to build on a
of Omega Dubai Desert Classic
'Best-Ever' season
88 DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME
89 DUBAI POLICE
56
40
86 DUBAI SPORTS COUNCIL
THE EGF NATIONAL JUNIOR
PAIGE SPIRANAC
SERGIO GARCIA
72 AL JALILA FOUNDATION
TOMMY FLEETWOOD
ROLL OF HONOUR
71 PINK FRIDAY
THOMAS BJØRN
50
FACTS & FIGURES
62 PLAYER PROFILES Our constellation of players
46
COURSE HOLES
60 THE VILLAGE
Always a step ahead
FROM WILLETT TO GARCIA
MENA TOUR
Magic of the Majlis rubs off
Spreading its Wings Across
on the Masters
the Region and Beyond
90 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Media One Tower, Dubai Media City PO Box 2331, Dubai, UAE T: +971 4 427 3000 F: +971 4 428 2261 motivatepublishing.com connect@motivate.ae
OMEGA
DUBAI
DESERT
CL ASSIC
CCO Anthony Milne Publisher Chris Capstick Projects Manager Ingrid Valles Senior Designer Rouf Majid Contributor Viren Varma GM Production Sunil Kumar
13
USEFUL TIPS
G
olf in Dubai is once again offering a ‘family’ theme for this year’s Omega Dubai Desert Classic, having taken special care to ensure that there is something for everyone. The tournament village, featuring golf exhibits and food and beverage outlets provides an area where the whole family can take a leisurely break from the action. For a successful staging of the event, we rely on your assistance to make it one of the most respected and enjoyable tournaments on the European Tour.
GENERAL POINTS • Please keep your mobile phones in silent mode. This is to ensure enjoyment of the tournament for the players and your fellow spectators. • Special car parking facilities will be provided for disabled people by prior arrangement, while special viewing facilities for those with disabilities are supplied near the 18th green. • While there is no access to certain areas for reasons of unsuitability of the ground or because the areas are in play, spectators can move freely around the course using the controlled crossings on
14
fairways. Please observe the designated walkways and listen to the advice of the on-course marshals. • Although watching golf is a pleasurable pastime, it can also be a dangerous one. The Omega Dubai Desert Classic does not accept any responsibility for any accidents or injuries that may be caused by golf balls, or by the management and staging of the event.
TO HELP US... • Please obey and respect the marshals; they are present to ensure all spectators have the opportunity to watch play in comfort without distracting the players. • Please remain behind the ropes and pay attention to the ‘Quiet’ and ‘Stand Still’ signs when held aloft. • Please help keep the golf course clean and attractive by disposing of your litter in the bins provided. • Please note that dogs are not allowed on the course. It is also unkind to leave animals in the cars – even with windows open – so we request that you leave them at home.
W W W. O M E G A D U B A I D E S E R T C L A S S I C . C O M
• When around the greens, please keep movement to a minimum, especially when the players are putting. In addition, please observe the requests of the marshals. • Although consumption of alcoholic beverages is allowed in certain designated areas, it is not allowed on the course or in the grandstands.
TOURNAMENT VILLAGE The exhibition area can be found in the Tournament Village and houses golf-related stands and sponsors’ exhibits. You are welcome to visit the Village at any time during the tournament. The Village is open to the public from 8am to 6pm on all five days of the Tournament. Live action from the golf course will also be shown on the giant LED screen located in the Village.
KEEPING SCORE
PUBLIC TOILETS
• A number of scoreboards are displayed in convenient locations across the Emirates Golf Club grounds to keep spectators informed of progress throughout the four rounds of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic.
Public toilets are located in the Tournament Village and various locations on the golf course.
• The main scoreboard is located in the Tournament Village and provides a hole-byhole progress report for all players. • Mobile scoreboards follow the main matches with special emphasis on the leaders during the final two rounds. These display the current scores for the players in that group.
OMEGA
DUBAI
DESERT
CL ASSIC
CATERING The catering service provides a selection of light meals, drinks and refreshments and is located in the Tournament Village. Other refreshments can be found at the on-course outlets.
FIRST AID Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Service treats minor ailments and injuries. The medical centre is located adjacent to the Tournament Office.
15
Proud sponsor of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic CNN is a proud supporter of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, rightly a jewel in the crown of the European Tour with a long tradition for assembling first rate fields where the stars of the game compete for one of its most prestigious prizes. This year will certainly be one to remember with the likes of Rory McIlroy and 2017 winner Sergio Garcia among the top players taking part. A measure of the tournament’s widespread appeal is the star power from outside the sport as celebrities such as Niall Horan participate in the ProAm competition. But, as always, the real star of this tournament is Dubai itself. The ‘Major of the Middle East’ takes place against the most stunning backdrops of desert and inimitable skyline. CNN has long been part of the fabric of the UAE with our major hubs here, the base for the CNN Arabic service, home to flagship shows such as Connect the World with Becky Anderson, and a dedicated team working with partners across the region. This presence has expanded in the last year as programmes including Inside the Middle East and CNN Marketplace Middle East, as well as our newer platforms such as CNNMoney and Great Big Story, have often shone a light on the distinctive culture and business appeal of the Emirate. This year we will build on the innovation of our new platforms with new digital, programming and data initiatives, such as CNN Reach – a new way to connect brands with global audiences. All this, and more, will be on show as part of our presence at the Dubai Desert Classic. We look forward to this 29th edition of the tournament being another success. Rani R. Raad President, CNN International Commercial
Emirates Golf Club, Majlis Course, January 22 – 28, 2018 MONDAY, JANUARY 22 Official Practice Day 7:30am – 3:00pm TUESDAY, JANUARY 23 Official Practice Day 7:30am – 3:00pm WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 24 Pro Am 07:30am & 12:45pm (shotgun starts) Tournament Village Opens 8.00am – 6.00pm THURSDAY, JANUARY 25 Round One Tee Times: 7:15am (approximately) PINK FRIDAY, JANUARY 26 Round Two Tee Times: 7:15am (approximately) OMEGA Constellation Clinic with Niall Horan & Rory McIlroy on the Majlis Driving Range: 5:30pm
SATURDAY, JANUARY 27 Round Three Tee Times: 7:30am (approximately) SUNDAY, JANUARY 28 Final Round Tee Times: 7:30am (approximately) The Prize Presentation will take place at the Clubhouse Putting Green immediately after close of play (approximately 5:00pm) on Sunday, January 28, 2018
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W W W. O M E G A D U B A I D E S E R T C L A S S I C . C O M
OMEGA
DUBAI
DESERT
CL ASSIC
19
THE MAJLIS COURSE
The No1 golf course in the Middle East and proud home of the Omega Dubai Ladies Classic and the Omega Dubai Desert Classic – The Home of Champions
1
Par 4 / 458 Yards
2 Par 4 / 351 Yards
3 Par 5 / 568 Yards
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W W W. O M E G A D U B A I D E S E R T C L A S S I C . C O M
4 Par 3 / 180 Yards
5 Par 4 / 451 Yards
6 Par 4 / 485 Yards
7 Par 3 / 186 Yards OMEGA
DUBAI
DESERT
CL ASSIC
21
8 Par 4 / 459 Yards
9 Par 4 / 463 Yards
10 Par 5 / 549 Yards
11 Par 3 / 169 Yards
22
W W W. O M E G A D U B A I D E S E R T C L A S S I C . C O M
12 Par 4 / 476 Yards
13 Par 5 / 550 Yards
14 Par 4 / 434 Yards
15 Par 3 / 190 Yards OMEGA
DUBAI
DESERT
CL ASSIC
23
16 Par 4 / 436 Yards
17 Par 4 / 359 Yards
18 Par 5 / 564 Yards
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W W W. O M E G A D U B A I D E S E R T C L A S S I C . C O M
WINNER
PRIZE MONEY
US$500,000.00
2ND 3RD 4TH
US$333,330.00 US$187,800.00 US$150,000.00
SCORE CARD HOLE YARDS
PAR HOLE
YARDS
PAR
1 458 4 10 549 5 2 351 4 11 169 3 3 568 5 12 476 4 4 180 3 13 550 5 5 451 4 14 434 4 6 485 4 15 190 3 7 186 3 16 436 4 8 459 4 17 359 4 9 463 4 18 564 5 OUT 3601 35 IN 3727 37 TOTAL 7328 72
OMEGA
DUBAI
DESERT
CL ASSIC
The Omega Dubai Desert Classic boasts a US$3,000,000 prize fund POS
US$
POS
US$
5th
127,200.00
38th
20,700.00
6th
105,000.00
39th
20,100.00
7 th
90,000.00
40th
19,500.00
8th
75,000.00
41st
18,900.00
9th
67,200.00
42nd
18,300.00
10th
60,000.00
43rd
17,700.00
11th
55,200.00
44th
17,100.00
12th
51,600.00
45th
16,500.00
13th
48,300.00
46th
15,900.00
14th
45,900.00
47 th
15,300.00
15th
44,100.00
48th
14,700.00
16th
42,300.00
49th
14,100.00
17 th
40,500.00
50th
13,500.00
18th
38,700.00
51st
12,900.00
19th
37,200.00
52nd
12,300.00
20th
36,000.00
53rd
11,700.00
21st
35,800.00
54th
11,100.00
22nd
33,900.00
55th
10,500.00
23rd
33,000.00
56th
9,900.00
24th
32,100.00
57 th
9,300.00
25th
31,200.00
58th
9,000.00
26th
30,300.00
59th
8,700.00
27 th
29,400.00
60th
8,400.00
28th
28,500.00
61st
8,100.00
29th
26,600.00
62nd
7,800.00
30th
26,700.00
63rd
7,500.00
31st
25,800.00
64th
7,200.00
32nd
24,900.00
65th
6,900.00
33rd
24,000.00
66th
6,600.00
34th
23,100.00
67 th
6,300.00
35th
22,500.00
68th
6,000.00
36th
21,900.00
69th
5,700.00
37th
21,300.00
70th
5,470.00
25
RICH IN HERITAGE
T
he Omega Dubai Desert Classic was born in 1989 when the European Tour visited the Middle East for the first time. The roll of honour includes 10 different Major Champions. They are: Seve Ballesteros (1992), Ernie Els (1994, 02, 05), Fred Couples (1995), José Maria Olazábal (1998), Mark O’Meara (2004), Tiger Woods (2006, 08), Rory McIlroy (2009, 15), Henrik Stenson (2007), Danny Willett (2016) and Sergio Garcia (2017). Between them they have won 35 Major Championships. Promoted and organised by Golf in Dubai, the tournament is fondly referred to as the ‘Major of the Middle East,’ because of its longevity and a world-class field that it attracts every year.
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Since 1989, the tournament has seen 23 different winners from 12 different nations. The 28th edition of the tournament in 2017, won by Spain’s Sergio Garcia, boasted a truly ‘Classic field’ that comprised 84 European Tour winners, nine Major champions with combined 24 wins, three former world number ones, — Tiger Woods, Lee Westwood and Martin Kaymer — 27 Ryder Cup players and 11 former Omega Dubai Desert Classic champions. With elevated ranking points available and one of the most lucrative prize funds on the Race to Dubai, the $3million Omega Dubai Desert Classic attracts an elite group of golfers every year. Averaging 299 Strength of Field points in the Official World Golf Rankings over the last three years, the Omega Dubai Desert Classic is one of top regular season events on the Race to Dubai.
W W W. O M E G A D U B A I D E S E R T C L A S S I C . C O M
LOWEST FIRST 54-HOLE SCORE: 196 (-21),
S. Gallacher, 2013
FACT SHEET
LOWEST 72-HOLE SCORE: 266 (-22), T. Björn, 2001;
S. Gallacher, 2013; Rory McIlroy 2015
LOWEST FINAL ROUND BY A WINNER: 65 (-7),
R.J. Derksen, 2003; T. Woods, 2008
WIRE-TO-WIRE-WINNERS: E. Darcy, 1990; S. Ballesteros,
FIRST PLAYED: 1989
VENUE: Staged at the Majlis course,
Emirates Golf Club, every year other than 1999 and 2000 when it was held at Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club
PRIZE MONEY: US$3million MOST WINS: E. Els (1994, 2002, 2005) SUCCESSFUL TITLE DEFENCE:
1992; E. Els, 1994; J. Coceres, 2000; R. McIlroy, 2009; S. Garcia, 2017 LARGEST WINNING MARGIN: 6 shots, E. Els, 1994 LARGEST 54-HOLE LEAD: 8 shots, E. Els, 1994 LARGEST 36-HOLE LEAD: 6 shots, E. Els, 1994 LARGEST 18-HOLE LEAD: 5 shots, E. Els, 1994 LOWEST CUT: 141 (-3), 2001, 07
S. Gallacher, 2013, 2014
HIGHEST CUT: 149 (+5), 1989
YOUNGEST WINNER: R. McIlroy,
BIGGEST FINAL ROUND COMEBACK BY A WINNER:
OLDEST WINNER: M. O’Meara,
FIVE PLAY-OFFS: M. James bt P. O'Malley, 1989; S. Ballesteros bt R. Rafferty, 1992; R. Green bt G. Norman and I. Woosnam, 1997; T. Woods bt E. Els, 2006; MA. Jiménez bt L. Westwood, 2010
19 years and 273 days (in 2009) 47 years and 54 days, (in 2004)
UAE-BASED AMATEURS TO MAKE THE CUT: M. Turner, 2009 (finished tied 51st),
R. Thomas, 2017 (finished tied 60th)
LOWEST FIRST 18-HOLE SCORE:
61 (-11), E. Els, 1994
LOWEST FIRST 36-HOLE SCORE:
128 (-16), T. Woods, 2001
OMEGA
DUBAI
DESERT
CL ASSIC
Four shots, T. Woods, 2008
26 HOLES-IN-ONE: MA. Jiménez, 4th Hole, Rnd 2, 1990;
C. Moody, 11th Hole, Rnd 3, 1990; M. McNulty, 11th Hole, Rnd 3, 1990; J. Coceres, 7th Hole, Rnd 2, 1992; W. Westner, 7th Hole, Rnd 1, 1995; J. Coceres, 4th Hole, Rnd 1, 1996; R. Wessels, 7th Hole, Rnd 2, 1996; P. Hedblom, 15th Hole, Rnd 2, 1996; S. Cage, 8th Hole, Rnd 1, 1999; P. Downie, 16th Hole, Rnd 1, 2000; H. Bjørnstad, 7th Hole, Rnd 4, 2002; B. Kennedy, 4th Hole, Rnd 2, 2004; Y. Ali, 7th Hole, Rnd 1, 2005; N. Sato, 15th Hole, Rnd 1, 2005; S. Gallacher, 4th Hole, Rnd 4, 2005; G. FernandezCastaño, 4th Hole, Round 2, 2007; MA. Jiménez, 7th hole, Rnd 1, 2008; L. Oosthuizen, 11th, Round 2, 2009; D. Howell, 7th, Rnd 1, 2011; K. Horne, 4th Hole, Rnd 2, 2011; R. Jacquelin, 7th, Rnd 3, 2011; A. Quiros, 11th, Rnd 4, 2011; S. Gallacher, 15th, Rnd 1, 2012; M. Kaymer, 7th, Rnd 2, 2012; A. Quiros, 4th Hole, Rnd 4, 2015; G. Bourdy, 11th, Rnd 3, 2017.
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ROLL OF HONOUR
SERGIO GARCIA | 2017 Spain 65-67-68-69 269
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DANNY WILLETT | 2016 England 70-65-65-69 266
RORY McILROY | 2015 Northern Ireland 66-64-66-70 266
STEPHEN GALLACHER | 2014 Scotland 66-71-63-72 272
STEPHEN GALLACHER | 2013 Scotland 63-70-62-71 266
W W W. O M E G A D U B A I D E S E R T C L A S S I C . C O M
RAFA CABRERA BELLO | 2012
ÁLVARO QUIRÓS | 2011
MIGUEL ÁNGEL JIMÉNEZ | 2010
Spain | 63-69-70-68 270
Spain | 73-68-68-68 277
Spain | 70-67-68-72 277
RORY McILROY | 2009
TIGER WOODS | 2008
HENRIK STENSON | 2007
N Ireland | 64-68-67-70 269
USA | 65-71-73-65 274
Sweden | 68-64-69-68 269
TIGER WOODS | 2006
ERNIE ELS | 2005
MARK O’MEARA | 2004
USA | 67-66-67-69 269
S Africa | 66-68-67-68 269
USA | 70-64-68-69 271
ROBERT-JAN DERKSEN | 2003
ERNIE ELS | 2002
THOMAS BJØRN | 2001
Netherlands | 67-72-67-65 271
S Africa | 68-68-67-69 272
Denmark | 64-66-67-69 266
OMEGA DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC
33
ROLL OF HONOUR
JOSÉ COCERES | 2000 Argentina | 64-69-68-73 274
DAVID HOWELL | 1999 England | 69-68-71-67 275
JOSÉ MARÍA OLAZÁBAL | 1998 Spain | 69-68-71-67 275
RICHARD GREEN | 1997 Australia | 70-68-66-68 272
COLIN MONTGOMERIE | 1996 Scotland | 67-68-67-68 270
FRED COUPLES | 1995 USA | 69-68-72-68 277
ERNIE ELS | 1994 S Africa | 61-69-67-71 268
WAYNE WESTNER | 1993 S Africa | 69-66-69-70 274
SEVE BALLESTEROS | 1992 Spain | 66-67-69-70 272
EAMONN DARCY | 1990 Ireland | 64-68-75-69 276
MARK JAMES | 1989 England | 69-68-72-68 277
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W W W. O M E G A D U B A I D E S E R T C L A S S I C . C O M
THE MEDIA BRAND OF CHOICE FOR AVID GOLFERS
golfdigestme.com GolfDigestME
His Highness Shaikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE National Olympic Committee presenting the winner’s trophy to Sergio Garcia as Mohamed Juma Buamaim looks on at Emirates Golf Club
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W W W. O M E G A D U B A I D E S E R T C L A S S I C . C O M
SERGIO GARCIA Hoping to build on ‘best-ever’ season DATE OF BIRTH:
January 9, 1980
PLACE OF BIRTH: NATIONALITY:
Castellón, Spain
Spanish
TURNED PROFESSIONAL: CURRENT TOUR:
1999
European Tour and
PGA Tour PROFESSIONAL WINS:
32, including 14 on the European Tour OMEGA DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC:
Winner in 2017 BEST RESULTS IN MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIPS:
Masters Tournament – won in 2017; US Open - T3 in 2005; The Open Championship - 2nd/T2 in 2007 and 2014; PGA Championship - 2nd/T2 in 1999 and 2008 Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year in 1999; Vardon Trophy in 2008; Byron Nelson Award in 2008; European Tour Golfer of the Year in 2017 ACHIEVEMENTS AND AWARDS:
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Sergio and Angela Garcia with our iconic Dallah Trophy
S
ergio Garcia added another glorious chapter to an already rich history of Spanish winners at the 2017 Omega Dubai Desert Classic with a commanding wire-to-wire victory at Emirates Golf Club on a sunny Sunday. He barely took his foot off the pedal all season as he claimed his major maiden title at Augusta, becoming the third Spaniard to claim the famous Green Jacket, following in the footsteps of his compatriots and idols Seve Ballesteros and José María Olazábal Another victory at the Valderrama Masters, his third of the season, and a creditable fourth-place at the Race to Dubai saw Garcia culminate a “crazy 2017,” winning the European Tour Golfer of the Year honour, an award the great Ballesteros won on three occasions – in 1986, 1988 and 1991. "It has been definitely the best year ever,” said Garcia, who rang in 2017 announcing he will wed his girlfriend Angela Akins this year and he did in July and the couple expecting their first child in April.
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“I think both on and off the golf course it has been a unique and unbelievable year, and one that I will definitely remember my whole life,” said Garcia, who once famously predicted he was not good enough to win a Major. With four runner-up spots, 12 top-five finishes and 22 top 10s, Garcia finally proved himself at the Augusta, winning his first major in his 74th attempt. Good things come to those who wait. And it was worth the wait as Garcia went on to beat Justin Rose in a tense playoff, finally shedding the nearly-man tag. After having a year for the ages, Garcia is hoping to keep the good work going as the new season gets under way. “You don’t want to get comfortable with what you’ve done. You want to make sure that you keep moving forward and keep putting yourself in position to win more tournaments and all those things. ”I got a bigger Major coming early next year with the baby coming so we’re extremely excited about that, I think that’s going to be amazing,” said Garcia, who started 2017 with intent, sealing his 12th European Tour title at the Omega Dubai Desert Classic in February. In an utterly dominant performance, he set the tone with an opening 65 at Emirates Golf Club and completed his wire-to-wire victory with a bogey-free 69 to get to 19 under par and beat the 2016 Open Champion and Race to Dubai
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Number One Henrik Stenson by three shots. It was a commanding victory, which hinted at what was to come for the Spaniard. With this victory, Garcia continued a great Spanish run of success in the ‘Major of the Middle East,’ inscribing his name on the iconic Dallah alongside Seve Ballesteroes (1992), Jose Maria Olazabal (1998), Miguel Angel Jimenez (2010), Alvaro Quiros (2011) and Rafa Cabrera Bello in 2012. Denmark’s Jensen Lasse, who missed his first four cuts of the season, carded a final round 65 to share third with England’s Tyrrell Hatton, who made it seven top 25s in a row with a closing 67 that contained six birdies and a bogey. MENA Tour prodigy Rayhan Thomas finished in a tie for 60th place on three over after closing with a 74, but returned home richer in experience despite forgoing Euros 7,014 in winnings because of his amateur status. Reflecting on his victory, Garcia said: “I’m very happy to play the way I played. The way I handled some of the key moments and to beat Henrik, we all know how great a player he is.” “Even on the 18th with a four-shot lead I knew that I needed to hit a good third shot because you can mess it up a little bit there if you’re not careful. Henrik is always there so you’ve got to stay calm and collected with him. “It’s a great start to the year so we’re going to try to keep going the same way.” And he did!
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Our 2016 Omega Dubai Desert Classic champion Danny Willett presenting our defending champion Sergio Garcia with his Green Jacket at the 2017 Masters Tournament
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FROM
WILLETT GARCIA
TO
Magic of the Majlis rubs off on Masters
T
he magic of Dubai’s famed Majlis course rubbed off on the hallowed grounds of Augusta National for the second time on the bounce as Sergio Garcia emulated Danny Willett to don the iconic Green Jacket at the Masters, following his Omega Dubai Desert Classic win in February last year. As if it was in honour of the Spanish way of playing, Garcia passed a fiendishly tough test with a virtuoso performance in a fitting tribute to his idol the great Seve Ballesteroes, who would have been 60 during the epic Masters weekend.
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“It’s amazing to do it on his 60th birthday and to join him and (Jose Maria) Olazabal, my two idols, is something amazing,” beamed a golfer whose stars seemed aligned perfectly right now. The affable Spaniard rang in 2017 with “some exciting news” when he tweeted he would wed Angela Akins, a former Golf Channel reporter, later this year, and that set the optimistic wheels spinning. Tapping into good vibes in life, he set the ball rolling at the 2017 Omega Dubai Desert Classic, becoming the sixth Spaniard to inscribe his name on the iconic Dallah — and the third youngest Spaniard, aged 37 years and 27 days, to win 12 European Tour titles, behind Ballesteros and Olazabal. ‘Made For Greatness’ isn’t just a catchy tagline for the Omega Dubai Desert Classic; it is a collective reflection on the feel-good stories that marked defining moments in the careers of players who since have left their indelible imprints on the golf course. The eerie similarities saw the Spanish golfer enjoy some vintage highs with Garcia beating Olympic Gold Medallist Justin Rose in a sudden-death playoff for his first major after 73 starts. “I still feel like I have a lot of great years in me. And I’m excited for those.” Signs of good things to come were all too visible when Garcia teed it up at Masters with his caddie Glen Murray wearing the same number (89) on his white overalls as did Willett’s caddie, Johnathan Smart, in 2016. A strange coincidence, but a nice one. Coincidences mean you’re on the right path and Garcia certainly seems well on the way to greatness. The spirit of Seve would be with him every step of the way. Good things come to those who wait. And for Garcia it’s been a long, long wait for a major win. “But it’s that much sweeter because of that wait. People believed in me, sometimes more than I did, and that mattered a great deal,” Garcia himself admitted. A closing 65 at the season-ending DP World Tour Championship actually put him within touching distance of topping the Race to Dubai Rankings — a birdie rather than a bogey on the par five last would have put him in a play-off and victory would have seen him crowned Europe’s Number 1. That would have been quite the cherry on a year, which saw him win the European Tour Golfer of the Year for 2017, and he is now looking forward with optimism at the start of a new campaign. A successful defence of his crown this week will see Garcia become the second back-to-back winner of the ‘Major of the Middle East’ after Scotland’s Stephen Gallacher, who achieved the feat in 2014.
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DATE OF BIRTH:
March 1, 1976
PLACE OF BIRTH:
Phoenix,
Arizona, USA NATIONALITY:
American
TURNED PROFESSIONAL: CURRENT TOUR:
1997
PGA Tour
PROFESSIONAL WINS: Five, including three on the PGA Tour BEST RESULTS IN MAJOR
Masters Tournament - T18 in 2017; US Open - T36 in 2008; The Open Championship - T20 in 2007; PGA Championship T6 in 2005
CHAMPIONSHIPS:
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PAT PEREZ The ‘Volcano’ set to erupt in Dubai
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n an era dominated by young, energetic gym-sculpted athletes, Pat Perez at 41 years of age is enjoying a remarkable career resurgence as he re-invents himself in both personality and game. Nicknamed the Volcano, Perez has been plying his trade on the PGA Tour since 2002, but the 2017 season marked a major step forward. It took him 182 starts between his first win in 2009 and his second, at the OHL Classic in November 2016 at Mayakoba. The wait for No. 3 at the CIMB Classic in Malaysia was 24 events. Nobody would have given him a snowball’s chance when a shoulder injury sidelined him for seven month, but two victories and a creditable tied 18th finish at the 2017 Masters validated his approach to his late-blooming career.
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Delighted with his resilience, Perez said: “Everything is just more enjoyable. I feel like I’m a totally different player and I have a different kind of outlook on life and everything. It’s amazing what the 12 months have brought. “I’m not going to change anything. I’m still not going to work out, I’m still going to have a bad diet and I’m going to enjoy myself,” said Perez ahead of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, where he will be making his first appearance. “I have always wanted to see Dubai because of how much it has grown over the years. I have just wanted to see what it looks like. And I have always wanted to play the tournament. “It looks incredible and I have heard it run amazingly well. So, I am looking forward to getting there checking it out. I like the look of that tall building (the Burj Khalifa),” said Perez who is very close to a charity founded and run by his dad, Tony Perez. Wounded troops returning stateside are given a chance to take up golf and move forward with their lives at the Operation Game On charity that puts on an annual golf event at Morgan Run Golf Course in Rancho Santa Fe, California, and has launched a 15-Inch Cup Challenge, as well. Having cracked the top 20 in the world for the first time in his career after his victory at the CIMB Classic in Malaysia in October, the Volcano will be one of the players to beat this week. “Like any of them will tell you, Pat’s not coming to make up the numbers,” David Spencer, the tournament director, said of the Scottsdale, Arizona, resident who has $21.75 million in career earnings. “He’s coming to win and I think he’s done a fair amount of research into what the course is. It’ll suit his game being the fact the course is over sown with winter grasses and he comes from an area where that is prevalent. That’s one of the things we said to him, that playing the Majlis in late January is very Arizona [like] in its playing surfaces. “The Majlis suits all great players and he is a great player.”
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DATE OF BIRTH:
May 4, 1989
Holywood, Northern Ireland
PLACE OF BIRTH:
NATIONALITY:
Northern Irish TURNED PROFESSIONAL: CURRENT TOURS:
2007
European Tour
PGA Tour 22, including 13 each on the European Tour and the PGA Tour
PROFESSIONAL WINS:
OMEGA DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC:
Winner in 2009, 2015 RACE TO DUBAI:
Winner in 2012, 2014, 2015 BEST RESULTS IN MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIPS WINS: 4, Masters Tournament – 4th in 2015; US Open – won in 2011; The Open Championship – won in 2014; PGA Championship – won in 2012, 2014 ACHIEVEMENTS AND AWARDS:
PGA Tour leading money winner in 2012, 2014 PGA Player of the Year in 2012, 2014; PGA Tour Player of the Year in 2012, 2014; Vardon Trophy in 2012, 2014; Byron Nelson Award of 2012, 2014; European Tour Order of Merit winner of 2012, 2014, 2015; European Tour Golfer of the Year in 2012, 2014, 2015; FedEx Cup Champion in 2016
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RORY McILROY Eager to get back to work
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eware the injured golfer! Rory McIlroy will be hoping the old saying rings true this week when he returns to Emirates Golf Club, the scene of his victories in 2009 and 2015, as he chases the great Ernie Els’ long-standing record of three wins at the Omega Dubai Desert Classic. Beset by injury woes throughout parts of last year, the mega star endured a stop-start 2017 on the fairways, going winless for the time since 2008 despite racking up seven top-10 finishes. But things were pretty serene and cosy off the course, keeping him in buoyant mood. The 28-year-old Northern Irishman married his girlfriend, and former PGA employee, Erica Stoll; signed a lucrative deal with TaylorMade and decided to retain Harry Diamond, former Irish amateur international and his best man at the wedding, as his caddie in 2018. With some good vibes on his side, McIlroy will be trying to conjure up the same magic that has made him a proud owner of 22 professional wins, including four Majors. He kicks off a hectic 2018 schedule determined to win the elusive green jacket, among other golf's most prized pieces of
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silverware, to compete a career Grand Slam. The Omega Dubai Desert Classic, tag-lined Made for Greatness, will provide a sneak preview of things to come when he hits the Majlis course where he enjoys an incredible record, going 96-under-par for his last seven appearances that have yielded two firsts (2009 and 2015) and five top 10s. It’s just a happy coincidence that Sergio Garcia and Danny Willett, the last two winners of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, have gone on to win the Masters. How the script unfolds, only time will tell, but one thing is sure: There will be no shortage of talking points if the road to the Masters success begins at Emirates Golf Club. “It’s always nice to be back in Dubai, and I guess whenever I’ve played here, I've done pretty well,” said McIlroy who was forced to withdraw from the event last year due to a nagging rib injury. “I have great memories of this course and tournament. I made the cut here for the first time in a European Tour event as a 17-year-old amateur in 2007 and it was here I secured my first professional win two years later,” said McIlroy, who was Number 1 in the Official World Golf Ranking for 95 weeks. “I will always cherish those important moments in the early part of my career. That first win was a real stepping-stone for me, helping my confidence and leading to the successes that followed,” said McIlroy whose best score at the Omega Dubai Desert Classic is a 63 he shot in 2014, just two shy of the course record held by South Africa’s Ernie Els since 1994. “To think the tournament is older than I am, is testimony to its strength. They have an outstanding field all the time, and the golf course (Majlis) is really in great shape. Obviously, I will be looking to win the event again.” There is a cute story about the young McIlroy borrowing a photographer’s camera and an arm-band to get inside the ropes to follow his hero Tiger Woods at the 2006 Omega Dubai Desert Classic. A promising amateur at the time, McIlroy had just missed the cut after playing the event on a sponsor’s invitation. “I got an invite as an amateur and on the first day I shot 72 in the morning, while Tiger was playing in the afternoon,” said a star-struck 16-year-old. “So I ‘stole’ a long lens camera and an armband from a photographer so I could get inside the ropes, and followed him for all 18 holes.” Today, McIlroy, 28, is in a league of his own – a future Hall of Famer.
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DATE OF BIRTH:
October 17, 1969 PLACE OF BIRTH: NATIONALITY:
Johannesburg
South African
TURNED PROFESSIONAL: 1989 CURRENT TOURS:
European Tour
and PGA Tour PROFESSIONAL WINS:
71,
including 28 on the European Tour
OMEGA DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC:
Winner in 1994, 2002, 2005 BEST RESULTS IN MAJOR
Masters Tournament - 2nd in 2000 and 2004; US Open – won in 1994 and 1997; The Open Championship – won in 2002 and 2012; PGA Championship - 3rd/T3 in 1995 and 2007
CHAMPIONSHIPS:
ACHIEVEMENTS AND AWARDS:
World Golf Hall of Fame in 2011 (member page); PGA Tour Rookie of the Year in 1994; European Tour Order of Merit winner in 2003 and 2004; European Tour Player of the Year in 1994, 2002, 2003; Sunshine Tour Order of Merit winner in 1991/92 and 1994/95; Payne Stewart Award in 2015
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ERNIE ELS Still plenty left in the tank
H
is golf swing is fluid and effortless and yet produces great power, as ever. Consistency seems to be the only missing ingredient of his game that is holding back his long-awaited return to golf’s top table. The good thing is that Ernie Els is too long in the tooth and knows how to turn the page. Despite the pattern of him playing better than he scored continuing for much of the last year or two, the South African great remains unruffled, true to his easy-going demeanor. He sees the positive side, the potential, and is making an effort as he aims to rediscover the magic that won him over 70 titles worldwide, including four majors and a record seven World Matchplay titles in an illustrious journey that took him all the way to the World Golf Hall of Fame. Hard work during the offseason and good vibes about the Majlis course, the scene of his record three victories at the Omega Dubai Desert
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Classic, could well contrive to provide the missing spark that everyone is longing for. “It’s been a disappointing year results-wise and that is frustrating because I feel like my game has been in better shape than the scores suggested. “The consistency hasn’t been there, though, and the consequences of that are obvious. I have worked hard over the off-season to try to give myself the best chance of making a strong start to 2018,” said the 48-year-old genius, who made it to scratch as a golfer when he was just 14 and won the Junior World Championship the same year in San Diego beating Phil Mickelson. As one of the most prolific winners of his generation, he is chomping at the bit to claim another famous victory at the Majlis course, where he still holds the course record of 61 he shot in 1994. That opening round, which included 12 birdies, is still widely regarded as one of the greatest ever rounds in the history of the European Tour. “I’m looking forward to the challenge. I know it has been a long time since I won last in Dubai, but I’m quite excited about my game, especially at the start of a new season,” said the former world number one. “I think everyone knows I love playing in Dubai. I like the lines off the tees and the greens are quite soft so if you get your ball up, you can shoot some good scores,” said Els, who is an amazing 184-under par for the 56 rounds he has played since making his debut in 1993. In 1994, Els, as a 24-year-old, eclipsed a strong field that included the likes of Bernhard Langer, Fred Couples and Greg Norman to announce his arrival on the big stage. Eight years later in 2002, Els triumphed again on the majestic Majlis course to claim his second title in Dubai. His love affair with the Majlis course continued when he claimed a record third Omega Dubai Desert Classic title in 2005 after a dramatic eagle three on the final hole, which carried him past Welshman Stephen Dodd and Spain’s Miguel Angel Jimenez. Off the course, Els is equally active. His business interests include golf course design and a winery. He also is involved with two foundations — Ernie Els & Fancourt Foundation which supports junior golf in South Africa, and Els For Autism which raises awareness and money for research into autism. “Being this age motivates me, scares me and excites me. I’m looking for a hot streak of good golf. I’ll never dominate the game again, but if I catch a streak, I know how to close out a tournament,” Els said recently, suggesting plenty is still left in the tank!
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DATE OF BIRTH:
February 18, 1971
PLACE OF BIRTH:
Silkeborg,Denmark NATIONALITY:
Danish
TURNED PROFESSIONAL: CURRENT TOUR:
1993
European Tour
21, including 15 on the European Tour PROFESSIONAL WINS:
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Winner in 2001 BEST RESULTS IN MAJOR
Masters Tournament - T8 in 2014; US Open - T22 in 2001; The Open Championship - T2 in 2000 and 2003; PGA Championship - T2 in 2005
CHAMPIONSHIPS:
ACHIEVEMENTS AND AWARDS: Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year in 1996; Challenge Tour Rankings winner in 1995 2018 EUROPEAN RYDER CUP CAPTAIN
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THOMAS BJØRN Fond memories of the Majlis
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appy times come and go but the memories stay forever. Years have flown by just like a breeze since Thomas Bjørn, then a 30-year-old, bested a red-hot Tiger Woods to win the Omega Dubai Desert Classic in 2001, but his achievement is still talked about — and analysed — ad nauseam for the quality of the competition it produced, exceeding every expectation. Coming at a time when Woods was on a roll and only a month away from holding all four majors, Bjørn’s win assumed epic proportions, pretty much setting in stroke the Dane’s relationship with the tournament and the city he had made his home then.
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“It was just a wonderful week. I had my base here and my family and friends and it was home for me at the time. That made it extra special,” said Bjørn, who shot rounds of 64, 66, 68 and 69, playing in the exalted company of Woods. “We were witnessing something in golf we might never see again. Somebody dominating the game like Tiger did, and every time anybody went up against him, it was – you were bound to fall short and that week I didn’t. That was something to be proud of,” said Bjørn, who has also redesigned the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club course. “But it was just the way we played and the way we just went at each other, but also that respect that we grew for each other that week, that’s carried through another 17 years after,” he added. The 2018 European Ryder Cup captain and a veteran of over 500 starts on the European Tour will be hoping the old Majlis magic will return for him again this weekend when he joins a star-studded field. “I always look forward to playing in Dubai. It is one of my favourite tournaments and I always feel like if I am playing well, it is definitely a course on which I can score well,” said Bjørn, who boasts 21 professional wins, including 15 on the European Tour. “I feel at home in Dubai, so in many ways it feels like a home event for me and I am certainly looking forward to enjoying some sunshine too. The progress of Dubai has been amazing over the years and the Classic Week truly underlines how the emirate has grown to become one of the world’s most exciting golfing destinations,” said Bjørn, who made his first Ryder Cup team in 1997 at age 26 under captain Seve Ballesteros. “I feel very proud to have been appointed as the European Ryder Cup captain and I am relishing the task in the coming months,” said Bjørn, who will not only be the first Dane to captain the European team, he’ll also be the first Scandinavian captain when the The Ryder Cup returns to mainland Europe for the second time at Le Golf National. “I have lived and breathed the European Tour for so long, and now will do the same with the Ryder Cup for the next two years. I think all of my experiences as part of the European Ryder Cup team, both as a player and as a vice captain, will be invaluable to me over the coming months,” said Bjørn, who was twice a runner-up in The Open Championship. “There’s a lot issues that go on with what happens in a golf career, but I look ahead, and I always look ahead.” The motto “be positive, stay positive” has served him well — and continues to do so for the 46-year-old seasoned campaigner.
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DATE OF BIRTH:
January 19, 1991
PLACE OF BIRTH:
Southport,
England NATIONALITY:
English
TURNED PROFESSIONAL:
2010
PROFESSIONAL WINS: Six, including three on the European Tour RACE TO DUBAI:
Winner in 2017 BEST RESULTS IN MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIPS:
US Open - 4th in 2017; The Open Championship - T27 in 2017; PGA Championship T61: 2017 ACHIEVEMENTS AND
Challenge Tour Rankings winner in 2011
AWARDS:
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TOMMY FLEETWOOD Hard work paying off
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ommy Fleetwood is many things: a voracious reader who loves detective fiction. He is into yoga and meditation. Always follows his team Everton and loves music. And when it comes to golf, his piercing eyes and flowing locks makes him an instantlyrecognisable figure on the course. But something even more important: he is one of the greatest success stories in golf. Stars seem perfectly aligned for the newly-crowned European number one, who towards the middle of 2016 felt his golf was going nowhere and he needed to make some changes. Hard work with his support team did the trick as his swing started coming together, slowly. The process was painful, but fun, and he is never going to regret working too hard. “Of course, it was frustrating at times as I struggled, but I learned a lot about the game because of that one year. I tried to get better, but it went the other way. I finally came out the other way. I have had a lot of ups in 2017, as well as some results that were frustrating, but I have a greater respect for the game since I strted playing well again.”
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A professional golfer since 2010, Fleetwood, from Stockport, celebrated the “biggest day” of his career on November 19, 2007, when he took home the season-long Race to Dubai title after a T-21 finish at the DP World Tour Championship, beating fellow Englishman Justin Rose by 58,821 points to bank a $1.25m bonus. Remarkably, only one shot separated the pair. “It’s the biggest day of my career, for sure. The achievement of winning a year-long accomplishment is massive and it holds a lot of respect amongst your peers. It shows the level of consistency and the amount I’ve improved as a player and as a person,” Fleetwood said about his achievement which put him in the exalted company of Seve Ballesteros, Sir Nick Faldo, Colin Ballesteros, Rory McIlroy and Henrik Stenson, a veritable who’s who of golf. “My ultimate goal in life is to be the best player in the world. That will always be the same. Whether I achieve it or not is another thing but I’ll always strive for that,” said Fleetwood, the former Number 1 ranked amateur in the world. Even Tiger Woods is impressed with his progress. “He’s been fantastic. I think I first got a pretty good glimpse of him this year in Mexico, he played really well there and he’s had a very consistent year,” said the former world number one after watching him play at the 2017 Hero World Challenge in Bahamas where he closed with a 67 and tied for third with Jordan Spieth (69). “He’s one of our better ball-strikers. His putting stance and grip is unorthodox, but he rolls it well. “You can see how fast the ball rolls off the face, and so he’s just coming into his own, he’s just learning how to play at this elite level and is maturing and progressing solidly.” The Englishman, who tied the nuptial knot in Bahamas soon after the Hero World Challenge, plans to set up a base in the United States at Bay Hill Club in Orlando, Florida, as he will be splitting his time between Europe and the United States. “The PGA Tour is going to be a massive new challenge. I think it is going to make me a better player. I want to win there. I want to play and win majors and WGC, and most of them are held in the States. So, playing there will definitely help me do that.” How he fares at the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, where he will be making his seventh appearance – a tied 10th being his best finish in 2013 – will provide a sneak preview of things to come for a player who has been on a roll.
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PAIGE SPIRANAC Instagram star new ‘voice’ of Omega Dubai Desert Classic
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olf's biggest social media celebrity Paige Spiranac will be the ‘voice’ of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic this week. The 24-year-old American, whose Instagram account has 1.2 million followers, was ‘proud’ to have landed the role of the official starter which involves announcing each player in the field onto the first tee. The college golf standout at San Diego State, Spiranac is no stranger to Dubai, having competed in the Omega Dubai Ladies Classic in 2015 and 2016, but it will be the first time she will assume the podium on the tee at Emirates Golf Club, hoping to leave behind a collection of happy memories to savour. Not afraid to experiment and try out different things in life, the breakthrough professional golf competitor and personality is excited about her new role which is sure to resonate among her millions of followers on social media platforms and beyond. “I am absolutely delighted and feel privileged to have been offered this interesting role by the promoters. Meeting and interacting with many of the greats of the game on the first tee will be just awesome. I just can’t wait to get started,” said Spiranac. “It will be my first time in a role like this and I’m excited about this opportunity. As the field attracts players from so many different countries, getting the pronunciation of their names right will also be challenging and fun. “Playing in Dubai in the last two years was a great learning curve for me both inside and outside the ropes. Everyone welcomed me with open arms and I am looking forward to being a part of the Dubai family again,” said Spiranac, who became a social media phenomenon when her golf team at San Diego State created a trick-shot video that got millions of views. The golf influencer, who has more social media followers than any LPGA Tour professional, helped to guide her San Diego University to victory in the 2015 Mountain West Conference Golf Championship and won the Colorado State Match Play Tournament. Spiranac made the cut at the 2016 Ladies Scottish Open at Dundonald Links and went on to capture her first professional victory on the Cactus Tour later in the year.
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MENA TOUR Spreading its wings across the region and beyond!
Mohamed Juma Buamaim with Darren Clarke, patron of the MENA Tour
T
he passion for golf serving as a bedrock of its organizational culture, the MENA Tour was created in 2011 to put the sport on a trajectory for growth in a region where golf was a lot of things, but a career pathway was never one of them. When the tour first rolled through, it appeared a lonely stride down the fairways to creating a competitive environment for discovering, identifying and polishing different kind of ‘gems’ hidden in the sands of Arabia and beyond, but, as they say, one step leads to another, which leads to another, and eventually creates change. Word of mouth started to spread and six years and 70 events later, the MENA Tour has established its credentials as one of the fast-growing brands, one that has fast-tracked the drive to maximize the sport’s huge potential, realising the benefits of investments made in building world-class courses by the region’s governments.
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No longer a young man needs to ask where should he go. The MENA Tour is there to cater to all their needs. That’s what this initiative of the Shaikh Maktoum Golf Foundation wanted to create and that’s what’s happening. The competition is getting harder and harder and steadily the tour gaining that big-league feel to it. These are still early days, but the tour expanding its footprint in nine countries – Jordan being the latest addition – across three continents. It’s growing strength was recognised at the highest level with the Governing Board of the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) giving its nod to award the ranking status to its members in 2016, the year which also saw the introduction of the MENA Tour Q-School. The tour recently launched The Project 300 that is aimed at getting at least one regional player in the Olympics by 2020. Players hoping to qualify for Tokyo must get within the top 300 in the world rankings.
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MENA Tour-Qualifiers
"There is no doubt in my mind that the Mena Tour has lived up to everybody’s expectations. However, we needed to give it a little bit of a push, and also a little bit of guidance. We couldn’t find anyone better than our patron Darren Clarke,” said Mohamed Juma Buamaim, chairman of the tour “The 2016 Ryder Captain has spent almost 25 years on the European Tour and I feel he has got quite a bit to offer for the young tour. There is a lot to tap into,” said Mr Buamaim, whose contribution in promoting golf in the region was recognized at the highest level when he was honoured with the Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Award in 2014 for his contribution to the “enrichment of the sports movement in the UAE.” Clarke, the 2011 Open champion, said: “From my experience I can tell this tour is the fastest growing professional golf tour in the world. With all the prize money, new destinations and OWGR points, I think this is going to go in one direction.” The MENA Tour prides itself on having close ties with different tours in the world. It’s one of the biggest reasons for the growth of the tour over the years. The case in point is the ground-breaking tie-up with the Sunshine Tour in 2016 which resulted in three co-sanctioned events, guaranteed spots offered to top finishes on the MENA Tour’s Order of Merit in premier European Tour events like the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, Maybank Championship and the KLM Open in addition to exempt status on the Asian Q-School.
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Showcasing the rising standards of the game on the MENA Tour will be will be the English duo Jamie Elson and Luke Joy and Sweden’s Henric Sturehed who have earned direct entry into this week’s Omega Dubai Desert Classic after racking up top-three finishes on the 2017 Order of Merit. The trio will be joined by the leading tour amateur Todd Clements (England) and India’s Rayhan Thomas who created history in 2016, becoming the first amateur to win on the tour. The Dubai-born prodigy, now aged 17, has since risen to number 19 in the world, becoming the highest-ranked amateur in his native India and the Middle East. Producing more home grown champions may still be a few putts away, but the MENA Tour has already moved the needle a bit forward. And it's just a question of time.
Rayhan Thomas
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These include open-pore woods as well as leather-trimmed doors and dashboard. Key interior features include the three-spoke multifunction steering wheel. The impressive ambient lighting, with a choice of 64-colours, showcases the interior like a work of art, particularly at night. The wide-screen cockpit has been updated with driver assistance technology that is a touch away The enhanced design of the S-Class Sedan conveys an even greater sense of status and the highest level of technological expertise. A combination of the finest levels of luxury and extraordinary safety with exceptional performance, it is a car created entirely without compromise.
FUN IN THE SUN
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he Omega Dubai Desert Classic has dramatically grown in size and popularity over the years, offering first-class entertainment to fans flocking to Emirates Golf Club during the tournament week. The bar has been raised further! Offering the best seats — and view — in the house, the ‘DallahDrome’ is the easy way out for those wanting to soak in the sun and fresh air while watching players smash their tee shots down the lush fairways. Fun in the sun is the name of the game at the ‘DallahDrome’ where multiple large LED TVs, fully-stocked beverages in addition to an imaginative food menu specially designed and priced for added value and variety will offer an experience to savour.
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Entry to the eye-catching ‘DallahDrome’ is free for those holding valid tickets for the course and as many as 600 people can be accommodated in the outlet at any one time. With no shortage of things to do, The Village also promises an experience to savour for everyone in an atmosphere that is both casual and elegant. Packed with an abundance of delectable dining options and familyfriendly entertainment, The Village caters to every taste bud. In addition to different food and beverage outlets, a giant TV screen has been installed to catch up with the live action while a shopping promenade, including outlets such as Shirtbyhand, Liv Bike Shop, UnderArmour, Egolf and Ecco, and large bouncy castles will keep the family fun going. Enjoy the day with a selection of delicious snacks from the best food trucks in town and the city’s finest culinary pop-ups! Fun-filled putting contests, backed by JA Resorts & Hotels, wasl and Byrne Equipment Rental, and the additions of Sony Playstation Zone, Pastels Hair, Nails and Beauty salon and Barberia Italiana, the first authentic gents salon in Dubai, will further add to the carnival-like atmosphere. It’s not just golf, but a complete family entertainment zone at The Village. We encourage all golf fans, local and those visiting the city from around the world, to join in the fun and watch some of the best golfers battle for glory in a unique setting. With something for everyone, we look forward to seeing packed galleries on all tournament days.
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PLAYER PROFILES
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DARREN CLARKE DATE OF BIRTH: August 14, 1968 | PLACE OF BIRTH: Dungannon COUNTY: Tyrone, Northern Ireland | NATIONALITY: Northern Irish TURNED PROFESSIONAL: 1990 | CURRENT TOUR: European Tour PROFESSIONAL WINS: 21, including 14 on the European Tour BEST RESULTS IN MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIPS: Masters Tournament – T8 in 1998;
US Open - T10 in 1999; The Open Championship – Won in 2011; PGA Championship - T9 in 2000 | EUROPEAN RYDER CUP CAPTAIN: 2016
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ith 14 European Tour wins, two World Golf Championships and one major championship under his best, Clarke is one of the most successful golfers Europe has ever seen. He started playing golf at the age of 11 and earned his first victory in 1993 at the Alfred Dunhill Open, three years after turning professional. The Northern Irishman defeated Tiger Woods to clinch his first PGA Tour win in 2000. In 2006, he put in one of the greatest performances in the history of the Ryder Cup at the K Club, just six weeks after his
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first wife Heather lost her long fight with breast cancer. He was named in the Queen’s New Year’s honours list in 2011 for his golfing success and received his OBE at Buckingham Palace. The first European player to score 60 twice in competition, Clarke boasts an impressive10-7-3 (W-L-H) Ryder Cup record as a player. He was named patron of the MENA Tour in 2015 and played a key role in getting the Official World Golf Ranking status for the tour in 2016.
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MATTHEW FITZPATRICK DATE OF BIRTH: September 1, 1994 | PLACE OF BIRTH: Sheffield, England NATIONALITY: English | TURNED PROFESSIONAL: 2014 CURRENT TOUR: European Tour | PROFESSIONAL WINS: Four, all on the European Tour BEST RESULTS IN MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIPS: Masters Tournament - T7 in 2016;
US Open - T35 in 2017; The Open Championship - T44 in 2013 and 2017; PGA Championship - T49 in 2016 | ACHIEVEMENTS AND AWARDS: Mark H. McCormack Medal in 2013
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he first player since the legendary Bobby Jones more than 80 years ago to win top amateur honours at both The Open and US Open championships, the hugely-talented Englishman turned professional in 2014. He came through the qualifying school in Spain in November 2014, picking up birdies in three of his last six holes to finish in a share of tenth place. He secured his maiden title after going wire-to-wire at the British Masters. He won twice in
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2016 at the Nordea Masters and DP World Tour Championship en route to a career-best sixth place finish in the Race to Dubai and securing his debut in The 2016 Ryder Cup at Hazeltine National. He became the youngest golfer on the European Tour to reach four victories at 23 years and nine days, following his win at the 2017 Omega European Masters. He posted a creditable tied fifth at the 2017 Omega Dubai Desert Classic.
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MIGUEL ÁNGEL JIMÉNEZ DATE OF BIRTH: January 5, 1964 | PLACE OF BIRTH: Málaga, Spain NATIONALITY: Spanish | TURNED PROFESSIONAL:1982 CURRENT TOURS: European Tour and Champions Tour PROFESSIONAL WINS: 28, including 21 on the European Tour OMEGA DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC: Winner in 2010 BEST RESULTS IN MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIPS: Masters Tournament - 4th
in 2014; US Open - T2 in 2000; The Open Championship - T3 in 2001; PGA Championship - T10 in 1999
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ne of golf’s most colourful characters, Miguel Ángel took up golf at age 15 while picking up the balls at the range and caddying. Nicknamed ‘The Mechanic’ for his love of high-performance vehicles, the fun-loving Spaniard boasts 28 wins worldwide, including 21 on the European Tour and four on the PGA Tour Champions he joined in 2014. Known for his accuracy off the tee, solid iron play and precise short games, he holds the record for most holes-in-one on the European Tour (10). Won the Open de Espana in May 2014, becoming the oldest winner on the European Tour at 50 years
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and 133 days, beating his own record when he successfully defended the Hong Kong Open in December 2013, aged 49 years, 337 days. A familiar face at the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, the evergreen Spaniard provided a glimpse into his mental toughness when he courageously edged out Lee Westwood, the then European Number One, at the third play-off hole to secure his first win at Emirates Golf Club in 2010. Created the Miguel Ángel Jiménez Junior Circuit in Spain to give children, aged between 7 and 18, the opportunity to play in a series of tournaments against other children of a similar age.
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HENRIK STENSON DATE OF BIRTH: April 5, 1976 | PLACE OF BIRTH: Gothenburg, Sweden | NATIONALITY: Swedish | TURNED PROFESSIONAL:1998 CURRENT TOUR: PGA Tour and European Tour | PROFESSIONAL WINS: 20, including 11 on the European Tour | OMEGA DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC: Winner in 2007 | RACE TO DUBAI: Winner in 2013 BEST RESULTS IN MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIPS: Masters Tournament - T14
in 2014; US Open - T4 in 2014; The Open Championship – won in 2016; PGA Championship - 3rd/T3 in 2013 and 2014 | ACHIEVEMENTS AND AWARDS: Challenge Tour Rankings winner in 2000; FedEx Cup Champion in 2013; Race to Dubai Champion in 2013 and 2016; European Tour Golfer of the Year in 2013
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ne of the greatest golfing talents to come out of Sweden, Stenson became the first Scandinavian male golfer to win a Major Championship when he held off Phil Mickelson in a memorable one-on-one battle at Troon in 2016. Achieved the highest ranking ever by a Swede in the official World Golf Rankings, reaching second place in 2014. Enjoyed a purple patch in 2013, winning the PGA Tour’s FedEx Cup and the European Tour’s Race to Dubai titles in a historic double. Also featured in the Olympics in Rio where he won a silver medal. Turned professional in 1998 and in 2000 he won the Challenge Tour Order of Merit at the finals in Cuba. His first European Tour win was in 2001 at the Benson & Hedges. Over the
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next decade he recorded a further six wins on tour, including the Accenture World Match Play and the Players Championship at Sawgrass. Also made four Ryder Cup appearances on the bounce from 2006. A former Dubai resident, Stenson savored ‘a special moment’ when he won the 2007 Omega Dubai Desert Classic for his first win in a tournament featuring world number one Tiger Woods. His four World Cup appearances include a victory in 2008 with Robert Karlsson and a second in 2009. As well, he played in the 2009 Seve Trophy and on four winning Royal Trophy teams. At 41, he remains one of the best ball-strikers on tour and finished in the top ten in Stroke Average (70.21), Fairways Hit (74.3%) and Greens in Regulation (73.8%) in 2017.
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Good Luck RA FA!
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PINK FRIDAY
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he statistics are sad and shocking as every two minutes a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer while every 68 seconds a woman dies of it somewhere in the world. For several years now, the Omega Dubai Desert Classic has recognized the worldwide battle against breast cancer by making the Friday of the tournament PINK FRIDAY, and this year is no exception as we join Al Jalila Foundation and Brest Friends to raise everyone’s awareness of this awful disease. Players, caddies, officials and the entire Golf in Dubai team will be wearing pink on Friday, January 26, 2018 and they will be joined by many of the spectators and guests attending the tournament. With pink flags, pink cups, pink flagsticks, and even pink tees, the entire golf course will glow with pink, now recognized as the colour of breast cancer awareness and research.
Your support will help us raise awareness and bring us a step closer to beating breast cancer, is the Golf in Dubai’s overriding message, so please:
Wear something pink on Pink Friday
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IAN POULTER DATE OF BIRTH: January 10, 1976 | PLACE OF BIRTH: Hertfordshire, England | NATIONALITY: English | TURNED PROFESSIONAL: 1995 CURRENT TOURS: European Tour and PGA Tour | PROFESSIONAL WINS: 16, including 12 on the European Tour | BEST RESULTS IN MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIPS: Masters Tournament - T6 in 2015; US Open - T12 in 2006; The Open Championship - 2nd in 2008; PGA Championship - T3 in 2012 | ACHIEVEMENTS AND AWARDS: Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year in 2000
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ne of the most active golfers on the social networks with close to 2.5 million followers on Twitter, Ian made the cut in all 11 of his European Tour appearances in the 2017 season with a tied ninth at the Scottish Open being his best finish. Nicknamed Mr Ryder Cup for his fearsome performances in the biennial clash, he has featured five times in the biennial contest, notching up 12 wins and two half points from the 18 matches, an impressive record that has made him one of the most fearsome competitors
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in the tournament’s 89-year history. Ian took up the game at the age of four when dad, Terry, a single figure handicapper, gave him a cut-down three wood. Turned pro in 1996 and played the Challenge Tour in 1999, winning in the Ivory Coast before progressing to the European Tour via Qualifying School. He was victorious in Italy in his debut season, winning the Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year in 2000. Since then, he has won a further 12 times on the European Tour – including two World Golf Championships events.
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TURNS YOU INTO A CHAMPION WITH A SINGLE SWING As you witness the world’s top golfers compete live in this great UAE tournament, you wonder what it’s like to be a champion loved by your fans – to walk the path of greatness. That’s where Monviso’s “Take Water. Give Life” enters the picture, to turn you into a champion of a different sort, with a single “swing” of your finger on your mobile phone.
A Champion with a Noble Cause Monviso Alpine mineral water, ever since its Dubai launch, has contributed to the making of champions by sponsoring sports events in the UAE. Today, as a proud sponsor of Omega Dubai Desert Classic tournament, Monviso is giving you the chance to be a champion through “Take Water. Give Life” initiative to raise funds for Al Jalila Foundation’s lifesaving humanitarian work. “Take Water. Give Life” – an original sales donation program designed by Monviso exclusively for Al Jalila Foundation – donates 1 AED to Al Jalila Foundation for every 1 liter sold by program participants. These include participating retailers, hospitality venues, sports clubs, and includes online orders by consumers placed directly on the Monviso website or mobile app. Program adoption is growing rapidly, with 51 organizations in 11 sectors already participating. From 1 January - 31 October 2017, Monviso has donated the equivalent of 93,225 liters (93,225 AED in donations) to support Al Jalila Foundation’s goal to save lives.
An Ace Initiative on the Green Course Monviso ties “Take Water. Give Life” charity initiative
to the environmental cause. The program has a sustainability aspect: Monviso will collect and recycle the empty plastic bottles from various locations, then sell the recycled plastic and donate its net returns to Al Jalila Foundation.
A Vision on Par with Innovative Giving Dr. Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, CEO, Al Jalila Foundation said: “Take Water, Give Life” is the brainchild of Monviso and a great example of how creative partnerships and initiatives deliver sustainable charitable revenues. We encourage the community to support our partnership with Monviso as such programs will further empower Al Jalila Foundation to achieve its mission to transform patients’ lives through medical research.” Stefano Iorini, Monviso CEO said: “Water being a vital source of life, we wish to do something remarkable with Monviso for the years to come by partnering with Al Jalila Foundation to support their mission to save lives. We are proud to announce that the initiative has won the official endorsement of Dubai Sport Council, which is partnering with us to propose it to all sports events in Dubai and all clubs that operate under the Council’s authority.”
Putting Smart Technology to Work for Dubai To be in line with Dubai’s vision to be the smartest city in the world, “Take Water. Give Life” is supported by Monviso mobile app where online orders for home delivery can be placed very conveniently. If giving were made easier and integrated into people’s lifestyles, most people would be more charitable, and this is what “Take Water. Give Life” does…to a tee. Just by drinking Monviso, you become a champion of giving. For the patients’ whose lives you help save, you become a superstar. Just download Monviso mobile app with a single tap. Then you’re all set to order online, get your order delivered to your doorstep, and effortlessly donate.
MARTIN KAYMER DATE OF BIRTH: December 28, 1984 | PLACE OF BIRTH: Düsseldorf NATIONALITY: German | TURNED PROFESSIONAL: 2005 CURRENT TOURS: European Tour and PGA Tour | PROFESSIONAL WINS: 23, including 11 on the European Tour | RACE TO DUBAI: Winner in 2010 | BEST RESULTS IN MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIPS: Masters
Tournament - T16 in 2017; US Open – won in 2014; The Open Championship - T7 in 2010; PGA Championship – won in 2010 |ACHIEVEMENTS AND AWARDS: Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year in 2007; European Tour Race to Dubai winner in 2010; European Tour Golfer of the Year in 2010
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anked number one in the world for eight weeks in 2011, the man from Dusseldorf won the 2014 Players Championship in May and completed a rare double a month later with a resounding eight-shot victory at the US Open, winning the marquee titles on Mother’s Day and Father’s Day in the same year. The 2010 PGA Championship winner produced
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an incredible birdie-birdie-eagle finish at the 2008 Omega Dubai Desert Classic to finish runner-up to Tiger Woods. Has played a key role in four Ryder Cup appearances, holing the winning putt to seal the Miracle at Medinah in 2012. Won the Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year in 2007 and the 2010 Race to Dubai after a season featuring four victories.
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COLIN MONTGOMERIE DATE OF BIRTH: June 23, 1963 | PLACE OF BIRTH: Glasgow, Scotland NATIONALITY: Scottish | TURNED PROFESSIONAL: 1987 | CURRENT TOURS: European Tour, PGA Tour Champions and European Senior Tour | PROFESSIONAL WINS: 52, including 31 on the European Tour OMEGA DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC: Winner in 1996 | BEST RESULTS IN MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIPS: Masters
Tournament - T8 in 1998; US Open - 2nd/T2 in 1994, 1997, 2006; The Open Championship - 2nd in 2005; PGA Championship 2nd in 1995. ACHIEVEMENTS AND AWARDS: World Golf Hall of Fame in 2013; Order of the British Empire (Officer) in 2005; European Tour Order of Merit winner in1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2005; Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year in 1988; European Tour Player of the Year in 1995, 1996, 1997, 1999; European Senior Tour Order of Merit winner in 2014, 2015
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nown affectionately to millions around the world as ‘Monty,’ he is one of Britain’s most admired sportsmen. Since turning professional in 1987, the affable Scotsman has held centre-stage in numerous tournament victories, eight Ryder Cup Matches as a player. In October 2010, he captained the European Ryder Cup Team to victory at Celtic Manor. His first professional win came at the Portuguese Open where he won by 11 shots. In 1993, he became Europe’s number one player, a position he retained for an unprecedented run of seven years. After being honoured with an MBE
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in 1998, he produced a record-equalling five victories in Europe and was never outside the top 20 in any tournament. Monty was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2013. A familiar face at the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, the Scotsman produced the European Tour ‘Shot of the Year’ in 1996 when he smashed a 265-yard driver off the fairway on the closing hole, setting up a two-putt birdie and a place on the roll of honour. Joined the PGA Tour Champions after turning 50 in June 2013 and since then has racked six wins there and eight on the European Senior Tour.
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LEE WESTWOOD DATE OF BIRTH: April 24, 1973 | PLACE OF BIRTH: Worksop, Nottinghamshire | NATIONALITY: English | TURNED PROFESSIONAL: 1993 CURRENT TOUR: European Tour | PROFESSIONAL WINS: 42, including 23 on the European Tour | RACE TO DUBAI: Winner in 2009 BEST RESULTS IN MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIPS: Masters Tournament -
2nd/T2: 2010 and 2016; US Open - 3rd/T3: 2008 and 2011; The Open Championship - 2nd in 2010; PGA Championship - T3 in 2009 | ACHIEVEMENTS AND AWARDS: European Tour Order of Merit winner in 2000 and 2009; European Tour Golfer of the Year in 1998, 2000 and 2009
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cumulative total of 22 weeks at the top of the world game, 23 European Tour titles, 42 titles in total in 19 different countries across five continents, two seasons as the European Tour Number One and ten Ryder Cup appearances – the Worksop-born golfer is regarded as one of the most successful English golfers of the modern era for a reason. Was twice runner-up at the US Masters and finished second at the 2010 Open at St Andrews and continues to compete consistently at the highest echelons of world golf. Took up golf aged 13 after his grandparents bought him a half set of clubs and was crowned junior champion of home county Nottinghamshire less than two years later.
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He won his first amateur event in 1990 and turned pro in 1993 after winning the British Youth Championship. He reached the summit of golf in November 2010 when he became world number one, ending Tiger Woods’ five-year at the top of the Official World Golf Ranking. Second only to Sir Nick Faldo in the list of England’s most prolific champions, Lee won the European Tour Order of Merit in 2000 and the inaugural Dubai World Championship and renamed Race to Dubai in 2009. He received an OBE for his service to the sport in 2012. Was presented with honorary Doctor of Science degree from Nottingham Trent University in November 2007.
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THOMAS PIETERS DATE OF BIRTH: January 27, 1992 | PLACE OF BIRTH: Geel, Belgium NATIONALITY: Belgian | TURNED PROFESSIONAL: 2013 CURRENT TOURS: European Tour and PGA Tour | PROFESSIONAL WINS: Three, all on the European Tour | BEST RESULTS IN MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIPS: Masters Tournament - T4 in 2017; The Open
Championship - T30 in 2016
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tarted playing golf at age five when his family took up the sport while on a South African vacation. Had a celebrated amateur college career in America, where he overcame Major Champion Jordan Spieth and former World Amateur Number One Patrick Cantlay to win the NCAA Division I Golf Championship in his sophomore year at the University of Illinois before progressing through all three stages
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of the 2013 Qualifying School. Impressed in his debut season before winning twice in consecutive appearances in the Czech Republic and Netherlands before adding a third at the 2016 Made in Denmark. Finished fourth at the Rio Olympics and as one of Darren Clarke’s wildcard picks became the first European Ryder Cup rookie to win four points at Hazeltine, where he played every match.
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GRAEME McDOWELL DATE OF BIRTH: July 30, 1979 | PLACE OF BIRTH: Portrush, Northern Ireland NATIONALITY: Northern Irish | TURNED PROFESSIONAL: 2002 | CURRENT TOURS: European Tour and PGA Tour | PROFESSIONAL WINS: 14, including 10 on the European Tour | BEST RESULTS IN MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIPS: Masters Tournament - T12 in 2012; US Open – won in 2010; The Open Championship - T5 in 2012; PGA Championship - T10 in 2009 |ACHIEVEMENTS AND AWARDS: European Tour Golfer of the Year in 2010
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ated as one of the best shot-makers in the game, G-Mac, as the Northern Irishman is fondly referred to, capped a remarkable season in 2010, winning the US Open at Pebble Beach to end a 40-year drought for Europeans at the tournament. Turned professional after graduating with a degree in Industrial Distribution from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2002. Finished a career-high second in the 2010 Race to Dubai and came close at the US
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Open again in 2012, finishing runner-up at Olympic Club. Has played a key role in four Ryder Cups, taking the winning point at Celtic Manor in 2010. Awarded an MBE in the 2010 New Year’s Honours List. Founded ‘The G-MAC Foundation’ in 2011 with a mission to support children’s medical research in Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and the United States. The foundation raises funds for research in children’s medicine.
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RAFAEL CABRERA BELLO DATE OF BIRTH: May 25, 1984 | PLACE OF BIRTH: Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, Spain | NATIONALITY: Spanish | TURNED PROFESSIONAL: 2005 | CURRENT TOURS: European Tour and PGA Tour PROFESSIONAL WINS: Six, including three on the European Tour OMEGA DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC: Winner in 2012 BEST RESULTS IN MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIPS: Masters Tournament - T17
in 2016; US Open - T32 in 2016; The Open Championship - T4 in 2017; PGA Championship - T29 in 2013
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ne of the most consistent golfers on the European Tour, Rafa claimed his first victory since the 2012 Omega Dubai Desert Classic by beating England’s Callum Shinkwin in a playoff for the 2017 Scottish Open. Tied fourth at the Open Championship, the Players Championship and the FedEx St. Jude Classic further highlighted the 2017 season for a golfer who also recorded an albatross at the Players Championship, holing his eight iron approach from 181 at the par-5 16th in the final round. It was the third ‘double eagle’ in tournament
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history, and the first ever on the 16th hole. In 2016, the Dubai-based Spaniard finished fifth at the Rio Olympic Games and made a memorable Ryder Cup debut, taking 2.5 points from three matches including winning his fourball in the company of Sergio Garcia against JB Holmes and Ryan Moore. He started playing golf aged six and went on to enjoy a successful amateur career, winning the Spanish National Championship at every age group level from under-7 through under-18 before turning professional in 2005.
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DANNY WILLETT DATE OF BIRTH: October 3, 1987 | PLACE OF BIRTH: Sheffield, England NATIONALITY: English | TURNED PROFESSIONAL: 2008 CURRENT TOURS: European Tour and PGA Tour | PROFESSIONAL WINS: Five | OMEGA DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC: Winner in 2016 BEST RESULTS IN MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIPS: Masters Tournament – won
in 2016; US Open - T37 in 2016; The Open Championship - T6 in 2015; PGA Championship - T30 in 2014
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is success at the 2016 Omega Dubai Desert Classic set the platform for an outstanding year that saw him score an incredible victory at The Masters Tournament at Augusta. The former world amateur No.1 from Sheffield played Walker Cup in 2007, the same year he won the English Amateur. Earned his 2009 playing rights after cruising through all three stages of the European
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Tour Qualifying School. Made his European Tour breakthrough in 2012 and added three further wins over the next years before the finest moment of his career when he took the Green Jacket, becoming only the second Englishman to achieve the feat and the first European in 17 years to win at Augusta National. Finished runner-up in the Race to Dubai in 2015 and 2016.
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C H O O S E T H E B E ST FO R YO U R G A M E.
or THE PRO V1 AND PRO V1x. Now the most technologically advanced golf balls in the game are even better. Pro V1 and Pro V1x both provide exceptional distance, even more consistent flight, Drop-and-Stop control and long lasting durability. This along with unmatched quality, golf ball to golf ball, dozen to dozen. Comparing models, Pro V1 has a lower flight and softer feel than the Pro V1x. So whether you choose the total performance of the V or the X, you are making the best choice for your game. Visit titleist.co.uk to learn more.
DUBAI SPORTS COUNCIL
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he Dubai Sports Council (DSC) came into being on November 30, 2005, following a decree by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai. It is the official body responsible for the development of the sport sector in the Emirate. Its mandate includes promoting sport, developing sporting infrastructure, creating awareness and nurturing talent, as well as encouraging the participation of women with the aim of turning Dubai into a land of health, happiness and vitality, and the sporting capital of the world. Seven Dubai sports and culture clubs – Al Nasr, Al Wasl, Shabab Al Ahli – Dubai, Hatta Sports and Cultural Club, Dubai Chess and Culture Club, Dubai Club for People of Determination and Dubai International Marine Club – operate under the umbrella of the DSC, which also takes active interest in encouraging physical activity in society, especially
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among women and children, through different programmes and activities. Under the guidance of its Chairman, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai Government, the DSC organises many major international sports championships in cooperation with different sports bodies, as well as conferences and symposiums, including the Dubai International Sports Conference, to promote the culture of professionalism, inviting some of the biggest names from the world of sports to share their vision and expertise.
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THE EGF NATIONAL JUNIOR DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME
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he Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) National Junior Development Programme (NJDP) is aimed at identifying and developing young Emirati Golfers while building good character through the structure of the rules from the game of golf. The programme established by the EGF, headed by HE Shaikh Fahim Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, not only identifies the top Emirati golfers but also helps grow the game of golf within the national community. As golf is growing at a rapid rate within the UAE, the opportunities for UAE national golfers are limitless. EGF will identify the talent and potential for young golfers at an early age so that we can build on individual skills and develop the areas that need guidance. It is key for coaches to impact athletes during childrens peek growth stages, when athletes develop the skills that are needed in order to perform at a top level in their sport. The NJDP has put together a training programme that will not only develop young players in the game of golf but also to create an all-around athlete. The EGF has worked hard to reach out to local schools and athletic programmes to gain awareness
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for the NJDP. By developing a golf curriculum in UAE schools the EGF feels that interest and golf skills can be developed at an early age. The UAE has the finest golfing facilities in the world and the interest in the game has skyrocketed over the years. With the support of golf clubs and UAE golf academies the NJDP is looking to expand throughout the region. Having a successful development programme will transfer to a successful National Team. With golf growing in the UAE, it is important to have a strong NJDP to showcase to the region and to the world. Hard work, proper training, and repeated exposure to international tournaments will be the main ingredients of the NJDP that will lead to making the UAE nationals players a force to be reckoned with. As the Governing Body of Golf in the UAE the EGF has over 7,000 members. The EGF is affiliated to IGF, the R&A, the APGC, the USGA Handicap System, the AGF and the GCC. EGF members receive a globally recognised Handicap, special green fee rates at all UAE Golf Clubs, and insurance cover to their members.
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DUBAI POLICE Always a step ahead
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rganisers of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic have saluted the Dubai Police for their unwavering commitment to their duty and impeccable security support of the European Tour event. “We appreciate the Dubai Police’s significant support in helping us streamline our logistical operations in the run up to and during the tournament. They have been a great partner and it is an honour to be associated with them,” said David Spencer, the tournament director. A constellation of stars led by Women’s British Open winner In-Kyung Kim, veteran Dame Laura Davies, Catriona Matthew, the first woman to be included in Scottish golf’s Hall of Fame, Oslo native Suzann Pettersen and debutant Brittany Lincicome of America will showcase their skills in what promises to be an absorbing contest at Emirates Golf Club. Providing a distinct ‘local’ flavour to the event will be Morocco’s Maha Haddioui, the first Arab golfer to ply her trade on the Ladies European Tour. The Dubai Police hit the headlines recently when a group of officers teamed up to set a one-of-a-kind record during the Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC), pulling an Airbus A380 for a distance of 100 metres. They broke the previous such record, involving 100
OMEGA DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC
people who pulled a 218.56 ton plane in Hong Kong. Major-General Abdullah Khalifa Al Marri, Commander-in-Chief of the Dubai Police, received the record certificate from Huda Kassab, director of the Guinness World Records. The police chief also praised the fitness challenge event, for raising the culture of health and sportiveness in the UAE community, and for providing innovative sporting activities all around the emirate. He noted that the Guinness Record breaking achievement would contribute to the challenge and be a memorable one in the public mind, adding that it was also part of the Dubai Police’s strategy to support community-based sports initiatives. “We, at the Dubai Police, are guided by the directives of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of the Executive Council and President of the Dubai Sports Council. We are determined to making the Dubai Police and the community practice fitness activities as a part of the culture. Fitness is key to our general health and prevention of diseases, and to motivate all members of the community,” Maj-Gen Al Marri added.
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