- Villegas seals comprehensive Honda Classic win 08/03/2010
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CAMILO Villegas picked up his third PGA TOUR title with a commanding five-stroke victory over Anthony Kim at The Honda Classic in Florida.
The Colombian carded a final round 2-under-par 68 to ease to victory with a 13-under-par 267 total - the lowest 72-hole score since the tournament moved to the Jack Nicklaus designed PGA National in 2007.
“I’ve just had good vibes in me all week,” said Villegas, who climbed to No.12 on the Official World Golf Ranking with the win. “I’ve been working hard on my game and on my attitude and I’ve been excited about playing golf. Today I just kept plugging away. I kept hitting good shots. If there was a golf course where you can mess up coming in, it’s this one, trust me. The finishing holes are tough. And I just picked my targets, put good swings on them and took care of business.”
Villegas began the day with a three shot lead over Vijay Singh and Nathan Green and quickly extended his advantage with four birdies in his opening ten holes. However, he was pegged back by bogies on holes 11, 12 and 15 but with Singh and Green crumbling to a 2-over 72 and 7-over 77 respectively Villegas had an easy path to victory. He held a four-stroke lead heading down the last with Anthony Kim in the clubhouse on 8-under and wrapped up the win in emphatic fashion with a superb 16-foot birdie putt on the final hole.
England’s Justin Rose shot up the leaderboard with a superb tournament-record final round 6-under 64 to move up 20 places into third place with compatriot Paul Casey finishing in a tie for fourth place with Singh on 6-under-par.
- Mahan goes low for Phoenix Open title 01/03/2010
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HUNTER Mahan shot a pair of 6-under-par 65s over the weekend at the Waste Management Phoenix Open to win his first PGA TOUR title since the 2007 Travelers Championship.
Mahan came from four strokes back to beat 21-year-old Rickie Fowler by one stroke after finishing on 16-under-par with a bogey-free final round.
“It’s just finding a way to win. I just haven’t been able to do it,” he said after firing four birdies and an eagle three on the 13th hole. “So obviously it feels great to win in just my fifth tournament of the year. It gives me a lot of confidence in myself that I’m doing the right things in my game, and it feels great, it really does.”
Fowler, who is competing in his rookie season on the PGA TOUR, had a lengthy birdie putt on the final hole to take Mahan into a play-off but narrowly missed and had to settle for the second runner-up finish of his young career.
“I played solid,” said Fowler. “I was bogey-free today and ultimately what I wanted was to have a chance coming down the last few holes. That’s what I did but I just missed a couple putts."
Reigning US PGA Champion Y.E. Yang moved 20 places up the leaderboard thanks to a superb 6-under 65. Yang made an eagle two on the par-4 10th hole before four straight birdies from hole 12 through to 15 saw him leap into contention. However, a bogey on the 17th pegged him back and he had to settle for third place.
- POULTER DOWNS CASEY FOR MAIDEN WGC TITLE 22/02/2010
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IAN Poulter defeated compatriot Paul Casey to become the first English winner of a World Golf Championships event after a 4&2 victory at the WGC-Accenture Match Play Champion ship in Arizona.
Poulter flew out of the blocks and built a 4up lead after 14 holes but Casey pegged him back to just a 2up lead after the first 18 holes. Poulter once again built a 4up lead but Casey came back again and by the 28th hole his lead was again 2up
Casey then missed a putt on the 33rd hole to give Poulter a 3up lead with three to play and Poulter ended the contest early with a par on the par-3 16th to secure the biggest win of his career.
"It's been a long time coming. It was a good day's golf. I knew I was in great form and I felt calm all day - nerves didn't play any factor at all," said Poulter.
"It means I'm up to No.5 in the world, it means all the hard work, the hours, the gym work... it makes it all the more pleasing to be able to go out on this bigger stage against the best players in the world and pull a win off in this fashion."
- Vintage Jimenez downs Westwood in Dubai 08/02/2010
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MIGUEL Angel Jimenez defeated Lee Westwood on the third play-off hole to win the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, his ninth victory since turning 40 in 2004.
The pair began the final day tied with Thongchai Jaidee and Alvaro Quiros and both shot a level par 72 in the final round .
Jaidee dropped three early shots and Quiros squandered the lead after three late bogeys, while Westwood birdied the 72nd to tie with Jimenez at 11-under.
Westwood had two makeable chances to win in the play-off before Jimenez triumphed with a par at the third extra hole.
Westwood looked favourite at the first play-off hole – the par-5 18th - after clearing the water in two, while Jimenez, having laid up short, pitched agonisingly close to the lake.
However, after chipping onto the green the Englishman missed a 10-footer for birdie and Jimenez got up-and-down to take the pair down the final hole again.
From the tee Jimenez found a difficult lie in the rough and after laying up he pitched through the green into the bunker. Westwood was again over the water in two in a good lie just off the green.
From their positions both played indifferent shots with Westwood leaving his chip 12 feet short and Jimenez blasting out way beyond the hole. However, Jimenez rolled in his tough par putt to heap the pressure on Westwood who again missed his chance to win outright.
With the Dubai sun fading the pair made their way to the ninth and both players missed the green with their approach shots. Their chips were both good and after the match referee was called in to see whose ball was closest, Westwood stepped up and missed his par putt. Jimenez then rolled putt in for his first win since the 2008 BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth.
"All week I've been playing strong with a strong mind and with good support from my caddie,” said Jimenez. "I have been coming to Dubai for many years and had a few chances to win and now I have it, I feel very pleased and very happy. Like a good wine, with age, I get better and better.”
The lead had changed hands several times around the turn with Quiros in prime position before three-putting three greens in succession to drop out of contention.
Jaidee who was playing alongside Jimenez, had a five footer for birdie on the final green to join the play-off on 11-under but missed.
- Karlsson seals Commercialbank Qatar Masters 01/02/2010
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ROBERT Karlsson won his tenth European Tour title with a superb three-shot victory over defending champion Alvaro Quiros at the Commercialbank Qatar Masters. Karlsson shot a sublime final round 7-under 65 to post a 15-under total and take home the cheque for €294,584.
“The focus this year was to come back and start to put together good rounds and a then a string of good rounds and then you never know what's going to happen,” said Karlsson, who missed large periods of 2009 with an eye injury. “That’s the thing I am most happy with. It’s not really the win, it’s fantastic to win, but to play four really good rounds together, that’s the most satisfying.”
Karlsson peppered the flag all the day and shot a bogey free round with three birdies on the outward half and four coming home – including two at the final two holes.
“It has surprised me a little bit,” he added. “Especially the way I played during the final round. But if you go out and shoot a 65 in the last day of a tournament after being a couple behind, usually you will have a good chance and obviously it was my day.”
Overnight leaders Paul Casey and Bradley Dredge both faltered over the final 18 holes, closing with 74s to drop into a share of fifth place. Lee Westwood posted a 2-under 70 to claim third place while Quiros shot up from sixth place into second place after a superb 5-under. “I played very good and I had my chances,” said Quiros. “The wind on Thursday put me out a little bit, but I chipped in two times and holed a very long putt in my final round so I have to be thankful.”
- Old Pals Act at The Invitational hosted by Abdullah Al Naboodah 29/01/2010
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It was an ‘old pals act’ of the highest order that became the centrepiece of The Invitational hosted by Abdullah Al Naboodah at the Creek Golf & Yacht Club as Lee Westwood, The 2009 Race to Dubai and Dubai World Championship winner, shared the Individual professional prize with his best friend and ISM stablemate Darren Clarke.
European Tour Player of the Year Westwood was back to his brilliant best and Clarke showed signs of returning to the form that won him two World Golf Championships as the Englishman and Irishman both shot course record-breaking rounds of 8-under 63.
Westwood also partnered his good friend, event host Abdullah Al Naboodah, to take first place in the Professional-Amateur team event with a 9-under 62.
Clarke partnered George Horan, Deputy Managing Director of Premier Partners to The Invitational, Dubai Duty Free, to take third place with a 63, losing out on a one-shot countback for second place to professional Richard Green and amateur James Collins, who qualified through a Golden Ticket at the Worldwide Golf Midweek Open earlier this month.
Sam Walker won longest Drive for the professionals, while Farbod Dowlatshahi of Premier Partners Delwood had the Longest Drive for the amateurs (0-14) with Stewart McIntyre taking the 15+ prize. Westwood joked at the excellent prize-giving ceremony at the Park Hyatt Hotel that: “the secret to winning the team event was choosing the right partner – and Abdullah chose me.”
Joint winner Clarke thanked all the pros for supporting Abdullah and the event and commented that the field equalled the best Tour Pro-Ams. Abdullah Al Naboodah thanked the professionals for turning out in force and making The Invitational a day to remember and also thanked the Premier Partners, Partners and Official Suppliers for making it possible to stage the event.A live auction raised a magnificent Dh750,000 for the two benefiting charities, Al Noor Training Centre for Children with Special Needs and the Dubai Autism Centre.
At the prize giving ceremony Clarke said he had never played in an invitational event where the fun factor affected everyone from the sponsors to the players to the spectators. Throughout the day the banter and laughter between the players and supporting spectators made this a day to remember.
One young lady who won’t forget the occasion was ten year-old Amelia McKee, who qualified as the leading female player and junior at the Worldwide Golf Midweek Open earlier this month. Amelia was a sensation as she kept pace with her playing partners Jean-Francois Luquin, James Collins and Richard Green. Her team partner, Frenchman Jean-Francois, commented: “She’s an amazing girl and a phenomenal talent.”
The 50 European Tour Professional players, who numbered seven of the top ten in the 2009 Race to Dubai ratings and 22 of the top 50 agreed this was the most enjoyable invitational they had ever played and the joint winners, Westwood and Clarke both said they couldn’t wait for next year’s Invitational.
- Mickelson joins Daly in playing old Ping Eye 2 wedges 29/01/2010
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WORLD No.2 Phil Mickelson has taken advantage of a legal loophole which allows players to play any Ping-Eye 2 made before April 1, 1990 after a settlement was reached between Ping and the USGA.
“I don’t feel that there’s any problem if I were to play those clubs or if anybody else were,” Mickelson said, who will use the square grooved Ping wedge. “All that matters is that it is OK under the Rules of Golf.”
John Daly and Dean Wilson brought the issue to the fore by using their old clubs at the first regular PGA TOUR event of the season at the Sony Open in Hawaii.
- PAUL CASEY ADDS MORE STAR POWER TO THE INVITATIONAL LINE UP 14/01/2010
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RYDER Cup star Paul Casey has confirmed his participation at The Invitational hosted by Abdullah Al Naboodah and adds his name to the already world-class line-up at the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club on Monday, January 25th.
Casey won three times in the space of five months last year to reach a career-high third place on the Official World Golf Ranking before a rib injury derailed his season.
Casey won the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship in January on The European Tour before winning his first US PGA Tour event at the Shell Houston Open in April. He then won the flagship tournament of The European Tour, the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth in May before his injury – sustained at The Open Championship - forced him out of action until October.
The Englishman is now back to full fitness and finished in a tie for 10th place at the SBS Championship on the US PGA Tour earlier this month.
Casey joins the likes of Lee Westwood, Rory McIlroy, Sergio Garcia and Ross Fisher in the field to become the seventh player in the top ten of The European Tour’s final 2009 Race to Dubai ranking and the fifth player inside the top 20 on the Official World Golf Ranking to compete in the most prestigious Pro-Am in the region.
Garcia, currently ranked 13th in the World and 10th in the final 2009 Race to Dubai ranking, will be flying into Abu Dhabi for the first leg of The Tour’s Middle East Swing, the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship, in style in his Hawker 4000 aircraft. The prestigious aircraft manufacturer, Hawker Beechcraft, has now become a Premier Partner of The Invitational, along with Dubai Duty Free, Delwood and Atom.
The Spaniard joins a host of leading European Tour players in The Invitational, including Europe’s 2009 Golfer of the Year, Westwood. World No.4 Westwood returns to Dubai on the back of one of the most consistent seasons of his career. He capped a stunning victory in the Dubai World Championship in November, by adding The Race to Dubai title with two wins and 11 additional top-ten finishes to collect €2,750,000 and take his season’s earnings to a record €4,237,762.
In total, 50 Professionals and 50 amateurs will combine in a betterball stroke play competition in teams of two – one Pro and one amateur – with the Pros playing for a charity prize fund of AED500,000.
Al Naboodah Director of Golf and The Invitational Tournament Director, James Bowring, commented: “It’s great that Paul Casey has joined the party and that we’ve got so many leading players competing who are right on the top of their game. The sponsors and the spectators are going to be treated to a wonderful day of world-class golf played in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. It’s going to be a special day for them to be able to play a part in enjoying this unique tournament.”
For more information on The Invitational hosted by Abdullah Al Naboodah at Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club on January 25, please visit:
www.theinvitational.com
- Dubai Duty Free named Premier Partner to The Invitational 04/01/2010
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Dubai Duty Free has added their support to The Invitational hosted by Abdullah Al Naboodah by becoming a Premier Partner to the charity event to be held at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club on Monday January 25th.
Dubai Duty Free joins The National, Delwood and Atom as Premier Partners for the prestigious tournament widely regarded as the biggest and most popular Pro-Am in the Middle East.
Colm McLoughlin, Managing Director of Dubai Duty Free, commented: “Dubai Duty Free is a long-time supporter of golf in Dubai and we are delighted to extend our support to The Invitational 2010, hosted by Abdullah Al Naboodah. This event has grown over the past couple of years and has caught the attention of the top professionals as well as the media, which is good for Dubai and its reputation as a golfing destination. We are looking forward to participating in the tournament.”
Abdullah Al Naboodah added: “Dubai Duty Free have supported charity and golf events for many years and I am both pleased and honoured that they have become a Premier Partner for The Invitational.”
With Colm McLoughlin having been a long time member of the Creek and a former Club Captain, the connection with the golf club was further strengthened with Thomas Björn, who redesigned the course, confirming that he will be joining the star-studded cast of European Tour players which includes Lee Westwood, Sergio Garcia and Rory McIlroy.
Spectators are welcome to see the Professionals up close and personal in one of the friendliest and most competitive invitationals in World golf, where the galleries are made to feel an integral part of the proceedings.
For free tickets visit www.theinvitational.com
Pictured with Colm McLouglin is Rory Mcilroy, winner of the 2009 Dubai Desert Classic, and Salah Tahlak, Director-Corporate Communications, Dubai Duty Free.
- Thomas Bjorn joins the all-star cast at The Invitational 30/12/2009
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NINE-time European Tour winner Thomas Bjorn has joined the already world-class line-up of professionals at The Invitational hosted by Abdullah Al Naboodah at Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club on January 25th.
Bjorn, the former Chairman of The European Tour Player’s Committee and first ever Dane to play in The Ryder Cup, redesigned the Dubai Creek course in 2004 and joins the likes of Sergio Garcia and Lee Westwood in the field of the most prestigious Invitational Pro-Am in the region.
Garcia, currently ranked 11th in the World, finished 10th in The Race to Dubai and joins a host of leading European Tour players in The Invitational, including Europe’s Golfer of the Year, Westwood. The World No.4 returns to Dubai on the back of one of the most consistent seasons of his career. He capped a stunning victory in the Dubai World Championship in November, by adding The Race to Dubai title with two wins and 11 additional top-ten finishes to collect €2,750,000 and take his season’s earnings to a record €4,237,762.
He was rightfully voted The European Tour’s Golfer of The Year for the third time in his career, having ended Colin Montgomerie’s seven-year reign at head of European Golf by winning the Order of Merit in 2000 after finishing runner-up in 1999 and third in 1997 and 1998.
Westwood and Garcia are joined in the field by fellow Ryder Cup star Graeme McDowell who recently shot back into the World top 50 with a superb second place finish at the Chevron World Challenge in California. Ross Fisher, currently ranked 20th in the world and who finished fourth in The Race to Dubai is another leading player to confirm his place in The Invitational on January 25.
Volvo World Match Play Champion, Fisher, who is sponsored by the Al Naboodah Group, put in a near-tournament winning performance at the Nedbank Golf Challenge in South Africa, finishing in a share of third place.
Another player bringing his best form to The Invitational is host Abdullah Al Naboodah himself. Abdullah teamed up with UK radio presenter DJ Spoony, Vincent Tshabalala and Thomas Aiken to win the fourball alliance competition at the Gary Player Invitational at The Links at Fancourt, South Africa, in November.
Other players confirmed to play at the Creek on January 25 include Rory McIlroy, Jeev Milkha Singh, Darren Clarke, Simon Dyson, Johan Edfors, Charl Schwartzel and Richard Green. In total, 48 Professionals and 48 amateurs will combine in a betterball strokeplay competition in teams of two – one Pro and one amateur – with the Pros playing for a charity prize fund of AED500,000.
Al Naboodah Director of Golf, James Bowring, commented: “It’s great that we’ve got so many leading players competing who are right on the top of their game. The sponsors and the spectators are going to be treated to a wonderful day of world-class golf played in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. It’s going to be a special day for them to be able to play a part in enjoying this unique tournament.”
For more information on The Invitational hosted by Abdullah Al Naboodah at Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club on January 25, please visit:
www.theinvitational.com
- Ramsay defeats Kapur for maiden title 29/12/2009
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RICHIE Ramsay won his maiden European Tour title at the South African Open Championship, three years after becoming the first Scot to win the US Amateur Championship in 108 years.
Ramsay and Indian Shiv Kapur finished level on 13-under par and it was the Scot who prevailed with a two-putt birdie on the first extra hole.
“There’s no greater feeling than winning and I’m just a flood of emotions – I’m holding back the tears,” said Ramsay after receiving prize money of €158,500 and a European Tour exemption until the end of 2011.
Ramsay began the final day in ninth place, five strokes adrift from Pablo Martin – winner of the Alfred Dunhill Championship a week earlier - and shot a best-of-the-day 65 to get to 13-under alongside Kapur who posted a 67. Martin failed to improve on his winning position and dropped down to sixth place with a 73.
The pair went back down the 601 yard par-5 18th and Ramsay, who hadn’t dropped a shot all day, was on in two shots and sealed the victory with a birdie.
“Things just went for me,” he admitted. “But I am a lot more positive now - I go out believing and thinking I can win.”
The trio of Denmark’s Anders Hansen, Sweden’s Fredrik Andersson Hed and Italian Edoardo Molinari could have joined the play-off on 13-under par with an eagle on the last but failed. Hansen made a birdie to take third place outright on 12-under while Andersson Hed and Molinari finished with a par for a tie for fourth, one shot further back.
Molinari’s finish was good enough for him to climb into the top 50 on the Official World Golf Rankings and join his brother Francesco in The Masters in April while Ramsay’s win saw him jump from 240th in the world to just inside the top 120.
- Star-studded cast for The Invitational hosted by Abdullah Al Naboodah 16/12/2009
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AS The Invitational hosted by Abdullah Al Naboodah gathers pace the strength of the international field continues to grow in stature. The recent announcement that European No.1 Lee Westwood, who headlines a world-class cast at Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club on January 25th, had won the European Tour’s Golfer of the Year Award, followed a series of excellent results from other leading players competing in the most prestigious Pro-Am in the Middle East.
Westwood returns to Dubai on the back of one of the most consistent seasons of his career, which he capped with a stunning display to win the Dubai World Championship in November. The Englishman topped The Race to Dubai with two wins and 11 additional top-ten finishes to collect €2,750,000 and take his season’s earnings to a record €4,237,762.
He was rightfully named The European Tour’s Golfer of The Year for the third time in his career, having ended Colin Montgomerie’s seven-year reign at head of European Golf by winning the Order of Merit in 2000 after finishing runner-up in 1999 and third in 1997 and 1998.
Westwood is joined in the field by fellow Ryder Cup star Graeme McDowell (pictured) who recently shot back into the top 50 on the Official World Golf Ranking with a superb second place finish at the Chevron World Challenge in California. The Irishman put in a superb performance as he finished one shot behind winner Jim Furyk but ahead of a field that included the likes of Padriag Harrington, Stewart Cink and Steve Stricker.
In South Africa, Ross Fisher, who is sponsored by the Al Naboodah Group, also put in a near-tournament winning performance at the Nedbank Golf Challenge finishing in a share of third place, one shot off making the play-off between Robert Allenby and Henrrik Stenson with the Australian finally winning at the third extra hole.
Fisher, who took home the biggest pay cheque of his career with a dominating display at the Volvo World Match Play Championship at Finca Cortesin in Spain in October, is currently ranked 18th in the World and will join fellow form-players Westwood and McDowell at The Invitational
Another player in top form is tournament host Abdullah Al Naboodah himself. Abdullah teamed up with UK radio presenter DJ Spoony, Vincent Tshabalala and Thomas Aiken to win the fourball alliance competition at the Gary Player Invitational at The Links at Fancourt in November.
Although the Gary Player Invitational presented by Coca-Cola is a fun charity tournament it is also a competitive event as Masters Champion Angel Cabrera and British Senior Masters Champion Tony Johnstone proved in defeating John Bland and Tjaart van der Walt by three shots.
Other players confirmed for The Invitational include Rory McIlroy, Jeev Milkha Singh, Darren Clark, Simon Dyson, Johan Edfors, Charl Schwartzel and Richard Green.
Al Naboodah Director of Golf, James Bowring, commented: “It’s great that we’ve got so many leading players competing who are right on the top of their game. The sponsors and the spectators are going to be treated to a wonderful day of world-class golf played in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. It’s going to be a special day for them to be able to play a part in enjoying this unique tournament.”
The list of confirmed players for The Invitational hosted by Abdullah Al Naboodah is as follows:
Lee Westwood Rory McIlroy Ross Fisher Simon Dyson
Charl Schwartzel Robert Rock Graeme McDowell
Johan Edfors Jeev Milkha-Singh Peter Lawrie
Chris Wood Steve Webster Gareth Maybin
Graeme Storm James Kingston Thomas Aiken
Bradley Dredge Jamie Donaldson Darren Clarke
Paul Lawrie Rafael Enchinique Ricardo Gonzalez
Daniel Vancsik David Lynn David Howell
Shane Lowry Paul Broadhurst Stephen Gallacher
Steven Jeppesen Pablo Larazzabal Richard Green
Simon Khan Gregory Havret Jean Francois LuquinFor more information on The Invitational hosted by Abdullah Al Naboodah at Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club on January 25, please visit: www.alnaboodahinvitational.com
- Late Charge Carries Al Naboodah to Victory at Gary Player Invitational 02/12/2009
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ABDULLAH Al Naboodah led his team to victory with a superb performance at the 2009 Gary Player Invitational presented by Coca-Cola at The Links at Fancourt in South Africa.
Teaming up with British radio celebrity DJ Spoony, Vincent Tshabalala and Thomas Aiken, Al Naboodah (left on the picture) propelled the team to a nail-biting victory in the fourball alliance competition of this premier charity tournament.
The competition was eventually decided on a countback on 22-under. This denied Irish property magnate Sinead Kenny the chance to become the first businesswoman to lead a team to victory in the team competition. Kenny combined well with playing partners John Bland, Tjaart van der Walt and South African cricket legend Barry Richards, but on the day Spoony and Al Naboodah’s fourball posted the lower score to seal the win.
“When I lost so narrowly last year, I vowed to come back and it would be game on,” said Spoony. “We cut it pretty fine today, but combined superbly over the closing holes. I’m delighted and I’ll definitely be back to defend.”
Naboodah, who made the biggest contribution at the charity auction, was the team’s star performer and also confirmed that he will soon be booking his ticket back to next year’s tournament.
“It would be fantastic to return and I will do my best to be here,” he said. “This was one of the best tournaments I’ve ever played in. My family and I are very passionate about charities around the world. When I met Gary a year ago, we spoke about giving back through golf. I have a lot of respect for what he does. We just enjoyed ourselves out there and it’s a bonus to walk away with a win.”
- Your chance to play at The Invitational hosted by Al Naboodah 26/11/2009
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WORLDWIDE Golf has partnered with the Al Naboodah Invitational to offer our readers an exclusive opportunity to play alongside European Tour professionals like Race to Dubai and Dubai World Championship winner Lee Westwood, Ryder Cup star Graeme McDowell and World No.10 Rory McIlroy in the charity event on January 25th, 2010, at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club.
This is the only chance to play in the Al Naboodah Invitational as it is a strict invitation only event. Two spots in the field have been reserved as ‘GOLDEN TICKETS’ for winners of the Worldwide Golf Midweek Open in January. The two lucky winners will each become a VIP for the day, partnering a European Tour professional and compete against some of the world’s best players in the most competitive yet friendly pro-am in the region.
There is one spot available for adults (maximum handicap 18 for men, 24 for ladies) and one spot for juniors (maximum handicap 28).For your chance to win a place in the tournament that every amateur wants to play, and a prize that money just can’t buy, simply enter the Worldwide Golf Midweek Open at Arabian Ranches Golf Club on Tuesday January 5th, 2010.
The Worldwide Golf Midweek Open is an Individual Strokeplay event for male, female and junior golfers with an official handicap. The entrance fee is inclusive of access to the practice facility prior to play and to the locker rooms and a light buffet presentation dinner at close of play (beverages will be at individuals’ expense).The sign-up is simple. Just fill out the entry form on page 4 of the December issue of Worldwide Golf and fax. it to Arabian Ranches Golf Club with your credit card details on 04 3663355
You can also download the entry form from www.alnaboodahinvitational.com
If you do not wish to use your credit card, payment can be made direct to Arabian Ranches Golf Club. Payment in advance is required to enable us to fill the limited field in the competition. Advance fees paid by players who fail to turn up to compete will not be refunded. Money will be refunded if cancellation is received with 48 hours’ notice as it will allow those on the long waiting list the chance to participate.
The details of the event are as follows: Entry fee AED495, which includes Green Fees, shared Golf Cart, Event Shirt, Range Balls, Tournament Prizes, Buffet at the Prize Presentation.Date: Tuesday, 5th January 2010
Venue: Arabian Ranches Golf Club
Time: 1.00 pm Shotgun Start
Format: 18 Holes Strokeplay Full Handicap Allowance
Tees: Men – Gold Tees, Ladies – Red Tees
Entry Fee: AED 495.00 (Juniors AED195.00)
Closing Date: 20th December 2009
Cancellation:
The entry fee will be debited from the card details enclosed with this form once the club has confirmed your event entry. If you need to withdraw your entry we require 48 hours notice to make the space available to players on the standby list. Your card will not be debited if you follow this cancellation process.
- Westwood finds heaven on Earth 23/11/2009
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LEE Westwood won The Race to Dubai with a sensational performance at the inaugural Dubai World Championship on Greg Norman’s Earth Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates.
The Englishman posted a 23-under-par total to win by six shots from compatriot Ross McGowan and in doing so overtook Rory McIlroy to top the money list for the second time in his career.
“I’m a bit speechless,” said Westwood. “I played fantastic at the weekend. I played well at the start of the week, but 66 and 64 will take some catching.”
“It’s as good as I’ve ever played, especially under this pressure. It gives me so much confidence and it’s definitely the biggest moment of my career.”
McIlroy, who led The Race to Dubai from Westwood heading into the Dubai World Championship, finished third on15-under-par.
“Leading coming in to this week and then finishing third, most times that would have been enough, but Lee was different class and he deserves it,” said McIlroy. “He’s been through the highs and the lows and he’s got his reward for the golf he’s played over the last two years.”
- Dubai World Championship charity auction raises AED 150,000 18/11/2009
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Funds donated to Dubai Autism Centre and ‘Els for Autism'
AN exclusive charity auction launched by global marine terminal operator DP World in conjunction with the Dubai World Championship has collected AED 150,000 for charity.
The funds were raised through an online auction in which golf enthusiasts bid for the chance to play with three-time Major winner Ernie Els in the Dubai World Championship Pro-Am on the stunning new Earth course at Jumeirah Golf Estates.
The proceeds from the auction were presented by DP World and South Africa's Els to the Dubai Autism Centre and ‘Els for Autism' before the Pro-Am Championship got underway.
Abdullah Al Naboodah, an avid golf fan and charity supporter, was the winning bidder, revelling in the opportunity to raise money for good causes while playing 18 holes of the stunning Greg Norman-designed Earth course alongside Els who is known as ‘The Big Easy'.
Chairman of Dubai World, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, said:
"DP World is proud to become part of the initiative. It is heartening to see golf fans coming forward wholeheartedly for a worthy cause. Autism is close to Ernie's heart and in great fellowship golf fans have stepped forward to stand alongside him to help raise awareness and much needed funds."
Els has devoted much time to raise awareness of autism spectrum disorders since he discovered his son Ben was affected by the condition. The champion has since been working towards building a research facility and school close to his home in Florida in USA.
Mr. Mohammad Al Emadi Board Member and Director General of the Dubai Autism Centre, said:
"We express our immense gratitude to Ernie Els and DP World for taking the initiative to create awareness and raise the much needed funds to provide the necessary intervention programs and spread awareness. We depend entirely on philanthropic activities of organizations and individuals to meet our running expenses."
The Dubai World Championship has attracted 70,000 registrations for free tickets to date which are still available at http://www.dubaiworldchampionship.com/
- On your marks, get set, go! 16/11/2009
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SO now we know. The field for The Race to Dubai has been finalised and 60 players will compete for the Dubai World Championship over the Earth course at Jumeirah Golf Estates with the crown of Europe's Number One on the line.
Going into the 51st and last event in the Race, which began just over a year ago in Shanghai and enters the final furlong this week in Dubai, four players can capture the inaugural Race to Dubai honours.
Leading the way, at the tender age of 20, is Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy, whose runner-up finish behind Gregory Bourdy in the UBS Hong Kong Open enabled him to vault over Lee Westwood of England at the top of The Race to Dubai.
With Westwood - the Number One going into Hong Kong - finishing tied 54th in that event, McIlroy's €186,190 has taken him €128,173 ahead of his ISM stable mate, and knocked several possible contenders out of the Race.
Only McIlroy, Westwood, Germany's Martin Kaymer and Ross Fisher of England can take the title, as Paul Casey was compelled to withdraw at the weekend without hitting a shot in anger due to a recurrence of his long-standing rib injury.
Quite simply, it all comes down to this: if McIlroy, Westwood or Kaymer can land the Dubai World Championship next Sunday, they cannot be caught by any of their challengers for the coveted position as Europe's ‘top dog'.
Should Fisher prevail, the new Volvo World Match Play Champion could be caught by either McIlroy or Westwood if either of that pair finished second while Kaymer would have insufficient points to reach Fisher.
If none of that illustrious quartet wins, then the permutations are endless. Whatever happens, if promises to be a stimulating and thrilling climax to the season in the desert.
McIlroy, who moved within one stroke of Bourdy at Fanling before bogeying the penultimate hole, admitted: "I am a bit disappointed at the moment, but I have the consolation of going back to the top in The Race to Dubai.
"This is where I wanted to be going into the final tournament. I knew if I put in a good performance there was a good chance (of going back to the top). I am now Number One and in pole position, I suppose."
Westwood, who has battled with McIlroy for several weeks to claim the metaphorical ‘yellow jersey' as Race leader, commented: "It's in my hands, regardless. The difference between first and second next week in more than the difference between us, so if I win this week, I win The Race to Dubai."
Kaymer, working towards full fitness after his lengthy lay-off due to a go-karting accident in August, was one of the group of early arrivals at the stunning Earth course in Dubai today who enjoyed their first taste of the course and facilities on the Jumeirah Golf Estates.
The German realises what he has to do this week, saying: "My goal is to win. Nothing else. If I can achieve that then we will see what happens."
Among the movers and shakers in Hong Kong and the JBWere Masters in Australia, the biggest winner was unquestionably Frenchman Bourdy. As well as collecting the champion's cheque for €279,288, Bourdy moved up from 86th place on The Race to Dubai to 47th, to ensuring himself of a starting role in the Dubai World Championship.
- Woods takes Australian Masters title 16/11/2009
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TIGER Woods won his first title on Australian soil thanks to a two stroke victory over local favourite Greg Chalmers at the JBWere Australian Masters.
The World No.1 went into the final round level with Australians Chalmers and James Nitties but took the title thanks to a superb 4-under-par 68.
“Now I’ve won on every continent, except for Antarctica,” joked Woods, who was making his first appearance in Australia since the 1998 Presidents Cup. “To have won on every playable continent is something I have always wanted to do and now I have done that. I had to make some birdies early and I did that and was able to keep the lead. I played very consistently. I wasn’t trying to be overly aggressive, just trying to plot my way along.”
Wearing his customary red shirt, Woods started in fine form by birdieing the opening hole which eradicated the memory of his level-par third round which saw him drop into a share of the lead. Woods then made his move for the title with birdies on holes 5 and 6. He made another birdie on the par-5 12th before giving a shot back on the 13th after a photographer interrupted his approach shot. However, Woods put that out of his mind by holing from 15 feet for a birdie on the par-3 15th which closed the door on his challengers.
Woods partners – most notably Chalmers – pushed Woods but the Aussie failed to significantly close the gap after missing birdie putts on holes 14 and 16.
- Race to Dubai – the story so far 13/11/2009
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AT precisely 9.25am local time on a cool, overcast day in Shanghai, the familiar dulcet tones of silver-haired Official Starter, Ivor Robson, shattered the still morning air. With the simple words "On the tee, from Sweden...Robert Karlsson" golfing history was made. The Race to Dubai was off and running.
Golfing dignitaries, including European Tour Chief Executive George O'Grady, huddled round the first tee in anticipation as Karlsson struck the first blow in the HSBC Champions tournament, the initial hurdle out of 51 to be cleared before The Race to Dubai champion is confirmed at the end of a 382 day campaign involving players from 40 nations.
Amid the staccato burst of cameras shutters recording the historic moment, Karlsson contrived to make a birdie...the perfect way to start a contest which will conclude this week at the Dubai World Championship on the Earth Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates.
Since that first hole we have witnessed some scintillating golf, a wealth of emerging talent, keenly fought battles and, particularly now we approach the final leg of the long journey, intense competition. This week (November 19-22) the top 60 players in The Race to Dubai Rankings will contest the $7.5million prize fund - and the $7.5million Bonus Pool for the leading 15 players come the end of the inaugural event.
Along the way players from 16 different nations have triumphed in The Race to Dubai, with England winning the highest number of trophies - nine - thanks to a glut of champions in the final few weeks of the season. The United States are not far behind with six, while Australia and Sweden have each had five winners and Argentina four.
We have witnessed 31 hole in ones, 15 first-time winners and 13 new course records. Rory McIlroy, who heads to Dubai just ahead of Lee Westwood at the top of The Race to Dubai Rankings, has had the most top five finishes this season with 11 - more than twice as many as his closest challengers, Rafael Cabrera-Bello, Westwood and Martin Kaymer.
Sergio Garcia was the man who set the ball rolling, beating England's Oliver Wilson in a play-off to capture the HSBC title and go into the winter break as leader in The Race to Dubai.
Garcia was joined as a Race to Dubai winner by his big-hitting compatriot Alvaro Quiros, whose victory in the Commercialbank Qatar Masters highlighted him as a potential star and set the tone for an impressive year.
South African Richard Sterne staked his claim to contest the ‘race within the race' - to be one of the top 15 who will collect a slice of the Bonus Pool, which starts at $1.5 million and goes down to $187,500 for 15th place.
Sterne took full advantage of playing on home soil to land the Alfred Dunhill Championship and the South African Open, played over the magnificent Pearl Valley Golf Estates in the Western Cape, in consecutive weeks.
Four other players have also tasted victory twice this season: Thongchai Jaidee at the Enjoy Jakarta Indonesia Open and the Ballantine's Championship in South Korea; Paul Casey at the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship and the BMW PGA Championship; Simon Dyson at the KLM Open and then the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship six weeks later and Martin Kaymer, who enjoyed back to back wins at the Open de France ALSTOM and The Barclays Scottish Open.
McIlroy emerged as a strong contender for The Race to Dubai title in the first part of the season. The 20 year old from Northern Ireland lost out in a play-off to Lin Wen-tang from Chinese Taipei for the UBS Hong Kong Open, but won millions of admirers worldwide with his superb maiden European Tour success in the Dubai Desert Classic.
Victory catapulted McIlroy into the top 20 on the Official World Golf Ranking and set the tone for an impressively consistent first full season on The European Tour, by the end of which he was at the top of The Race to Dubai Rankings, having overtaken Westwood with a second place finish at the UBS Hong Kong Open.
Two-time BMW PGA Champion Anders Hansen of Denmark won the Joburg Open, and others to make their move early on were Casey, Jaidee and Geoff Ogilvy, whose second victory at the WGC-Accenture Match Play propelled him to the top of the money list.
An even bigger success awaited Angel Cabrera of Argentina in the Masters Tournament at Augusta National, and that was followed by breakthrough wins for American Anthony Kang, Argentine Tano Goya and Northern Ireland's Michael Hoey. Dane Soren Kjeldsen and Thomas Levet of France now have multiple victories in Spain following their successes at the Open de Andalucia de Golf 09 and the Open de España respectively.
The surprise winner of 2009 was Shane Lowry, the 22 year old amateur who won The 3 Irish Open on home soil and turned professional shortly afterwards, and a week later Casey edged a thrilling battle with Fisher to claim the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth Club. Bad news was to follow for Casey, however, as a rib injury kept him sidelined for much of the summer, and recurred after he made his comeback in October, jeopardising his bid to be Europe's Number One.
History was made when Y.E. Yang won the U.S. Open to become the first Asian Major Champion, a few weeks after Tom Watson narrowly missed out on writing himself into the record books when he was denied The Open Championship crown by Stewart Cink, who prevailed in a play-off. Watson needed to hole an eight foot putt at the 18th to become the oldest Open Champion at 59 but missed, forcing a play-off with his compatriot. Westwood was a shot back in third place, alongside Chris Wood, who bettered his fifth-place finish of 2008, this time as a professional.
There was a stunning upset at the SAS Masters in Sweden when Ricardo Gonzalez birdied five of the last six holes to win by two from Jamie Donaldson. The Argentine, who until that point had not had a top 10 all season, holed a tricky bunker shot at the 17th and then chipped out of the trees to within five feet at the last, which he holed to seal a blistering victory.
Dyson made it a summer to remember with two wins in as many months, and Kaymer found the form of his life to record consecutive victories, only to be frustrated by a foot injury suffered in a go-karting accident which kept him out for six weeks. His return, a runner-up finish at the CASTELLÓ MASTERS Costa Azahar, fired him back into contention for the Harry Vardon Trophy, but with McIlroy adding his runner-up spot in Hong Kong to fourth place at the WGC-HSBC Champions and Westwood winning the Portugal Masters, he heads into the Dubai World Championship in third place on the table.
Fisher's success at the Volvo World Match Play Championship, where he beat Anthony Kim in the final, sent a warning to the top three that he was not yet out of the Race, and Ogilvy and Oliver Wilson are still mathematically in with a shout to top the Rankings come the end of this week.
So many permutations and calculations to be made, but one thing is for certain: we are in for a mouth-watering treat here in Dubai.
- Mickelson produces another Shanghai classic 11/11/2009
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PHIL Mickelson signed off on a hugely successful year by beating the cream of the world’s best players to take home his second World Golf Championships title at the WGC-HSBC Champions in Shanghai.
Beginning the final round two shots ahead of Tiger Woods and Nick Watney in the final group, Mickelson held off his playing partners and a superb charge from Ernie Els to step into the winner’s circle for the fourth time in 2009 and the second time at Sheshan International Golf Club having previously won the event in 2007.
“It feels terrific to have won this tournament,” smiled the World No.2. “It has been very special to have a World Golf Championships here in China and to be the champion feels great.
”This is my last event of the year. I won’t be playing again until end of January in the US, and so to finish the year with this victory feels wonderful.”
Mickelson carded a final round 3-under-par 69 for a 17-under-par total to win by a stroke from Els who shot up the leaderboard after firing a course record equalling 9-under-par 63.
Woods was out of sorts and was left trailing in Mickelson’s wake as he could only muster a level-par 72 to finish sixth while Watney also struggled to mount a serious charge, carding a 1-under 72 for fifth place.
Instead of battling with his playing partners, Mickelson was made to fight with the name of Ernie Els which gradually crept up the leaderboard as the round went on – eventually taking the lead with a birdie on the 17th as Mickelson teed off on 16.
“I knew on 16 I was a shot behind and I needed to make birdie to pull even, and I thought that it was important that I make a birdie on 16 because I was counting on Ernie making a birdie on 18, and I needed to keep pace,” admitted the American.
However, the drivable par 4 16th which clocks in at just 288 yards yielded only a par for Mickelson after his typically sublime short-game let him down. His drive missed the green and he fluffed his initial flop – sliding under the ball, hitting it straight up so it landed back in his divot - and then bumped it onto the green leaving himself a tricky 18-footer for par. He stepped up and knocked it in, punching the air – acknowledging what a big moment it was for his title charge. “That was the best putt I holed all week,” he said afterwards.
He then went on to birdie the par-3 17th to put the pressure on Els who then threw his chance of victory away by duffing his 5-wood into the drink on the 18th. “I had 218 yards to the front of the green, but I was on a severe downslope and I was in between clubs, thinking I couldn’t carry a 4-iron to the front, because I can hit my four iron to about 215,” said the South African, who shot eight birdies and an eagle.
“I tried to take a 5-wood, aim left and hit a big cut. But because of the downhill lie, I kind of stood back on my swing, and I hit the ground first - basically duffed it. For me to come back all of the way, to actually share the lead at that point, was quite nice. I’m disappointed about that, but I’m going to really think about the 63 I shot. I can’t complain.”
Mickelson needed to par the lengthy 18th for the victory but made hard work of it, twice hacking out of the rough with an 8-iron to get on the green in regulation. The Californian then got down in two with the flat stick to hoist the HSBC Champions trophy for the second time.
“Ernie played one of the greatest rounds, shot a course record, and I was very fortunate to come out on top,” he said. “This feels terrific because I had to fight very hard. Nothing came easy - I didn’t hit it great. The putts weren’t falling, and yet I hung in there and was able to win by one.”
- Fisher takes Golfer of the Month for October 06/11/2009
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Worldwide Golf columnist Ross Fisher has been named The European Tour's Golfer of the Month for October after his superb victory at the Volvo World Match Play Championship.
Fisher will receive a jeroboam of champagne along with an engraved alms dish in recognition of his performances over the week, which culminated in a 4 & 3 victory over Anthony Kim in the 36-hole final.
"It is a great thing to win the Golfer of the Month award - I was really thrilled when I was told about it," said the 28-year-old. "It is the icing on the cake after what was a fantastic win for me in Spain and it is a huge honour and massive privilege for me to be voted for by the panel."
- MICHELLE WIE TO HEADLINE STAR CAST FOR OMEGA DUBAI LADIES MASTERS 05/11/2009
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MICHELLE Wie, one of the brightest stars in the world of women's golf, will headline a stellar field when the American golf sensation tees it up for the first time in the Omega Dubai Ladies Masters.
The Ladies European Tour's end of season event will be played at the Emirates Golf Club for the fourth consecutive year from December 7 to 12, 2009.
After a tremendously successful rookie season on the LPGA Tour, which also saw her play a key role in the U.S. team's Solheim Cup victory, the 20-year-old is expected to electrify the tournament when she joins an already talented field from Europe in what promises to be an intense Desert Duel.
Named in a 2006 Time magazine article as "one of 100 people who shape our world," the Hawaiian is the latest superstar to sign up for the Dubai Ladies Masters which, since its inception in 2006, has showcased players of calibre and reputation of Annika Sorenstam, Laura Davies, Karrie Webb, Gwladys Nocera, Sophie Gustafson and Natalie Gulbis, making it the most popular ladies golf event of Dubai's sporting calendar.
"We are really delighted to have Michelle in the field. She is charismatic, she is skilful and her presence will certainly provide a big boost to the tournament," said Mohamed Juma Buamaim, vice-chairman and CEO of golf in DUBAi - the promoters and organisers of the euro 500,000 tournament.
"Michelle Wie may be just 20, but it appears that she has been around for a long time and has done wonders to raise the profile of women's golf. The amount of hard work she puts in every day to improve her game and fitness shows she is determined to realise her dream and is on the brink of mega-star status," said Buamaim, who also welcomed Omega on board as title sponsors of the golf in DUBAi events, which also includes the Dubai Desert Classic.
"Together, we will strive to deliver events befitting the global image of the brand Dubai," he said.
Nayla Hayek, a member of the Swatch Group Board of Directors, commented: "We're excited that Michelle, who is also an Omega brand ambassador, is making her first visit to Dubai. Combining feminine grace with power and technique, she is a strong ambassador for the future of women's golf.
"Omega is one of the few brands in the world with a rich history and tradition that can compete with that of golf. Our involvement in international golf today includes tour and tournament sponsorship as well as official timekeeping," she added.
Commenting on Michelle Wie's first visit to Dubai, Buamaim said: "Her presence will certainly bring star value to the event, but the reputation of the Dubai Ladies Masters is built on the collective presence of the players. And we are very pleased to know it has once again attracted a strong field.
"All the 108 players in the field are capable of winning the event on their day, but certainly fans will also be keen to follow the progress of seasoned stars such as Laura Davies, Sophie Gustafson, Gwladys Nocera, defending champion Anja Monke and the new Swedish sensation Anna Nordqvist, who will formally seal her "Rookie of the Year' award in Dubai.
"I wish all players, officials, caddies and guests a pleasant stay here in Dubai and I am confident they will all return home with fond memories of this city and further propagate the message of Dubai, as the ‘City of Golf'," Buamaim added.
"I am very excited about making my first trip to Dubai and playing in the Omega Dubai Ladies Masters," said Wie. "I have heard so many great things about Dubai as a city, but also about the golf here, and I'm looking forward to experiencing it for myself."
"This season was a very rewarding one for me, both on the golf course and off, and I'd love nothing more than to wrap this year up with a strong showing at the Omega Dubai Ladies Masters. I have such great respect for the players on the Ladies European Tour, and was able to develop close friendships with many of them in my first Solheim Cup experience, so it will be a great week."
Wie, ranked 15 in the world, turned professional in October 2005, and has been building an impressive resume in golf since a young age. At 10, she became the youngest player to qualify for the USGA Women's Amateur Public Links Championship in 2000 and qualified for an LPGA event when she was 12.
A year later, she became the youngest to make a cut. She played in the men's Sony Open when she was 14. Now 20 years old, Wie is proving successful both on and off the golf course.
'golf in DUBAi' is backed by Omega as the title sponsor and Dubal (Dubai Aluminium) as the sponsor while BMW, CNN, Emirates Airline, Emirates NBD, Gulf News, Jumeirah Golf Estates, Jumeirah Hotels, MasterCard and wasl are co-sponsors in its drive to showcase the emirate's vibrant golfing scene to a worldwide audience.
- Poulter ends baron spell in Singapore 02/11/2009
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IAN Poulter wrapped up his first victory since the 2007 Dunlop Phoenix Open in Japan with a one-shot victory over China’s Liang-Wen-chong at the Barclays Singapore Open.
Poulter opened with a 5-under-par 66 to take a share of the lead then extended it with a second round 64. He then closed out the victory at a rain-soaked Sentosa Golf Club with back-to-back 1-over 72s for a 10-under par total and a one-stroke victory.
“Getting off to the start I did, getting out of the blocks pretty quick, surprised me a little as I was mis-hitting some shots and I made it a little interesting on a string of holes yesterday,” Poulter said, referring to his opening rounds. “Coming out today I made some mistakes as well on the front nine and back nine to make it too close for comfort. But to stand on the last knowing I had to make five, I was pretty happy.”
- FISHER ON TOP OF THE WORLD 02/11/2009
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WORLDWIDE Golf columnist Ross Fisher confirmed his status as one of the most exciting prospects in golf with a stunning 4&3 victory against America's controversial Ryder Cup star Anthony Kim in the 36-hole final of the Volvo World Match Play Championship in Spain.
Fisher, who secured his passage to the final at Finca Cortesin in Malaga by beating Masters Champion Angel Cabrera having previously emerged from a tough group which included Camilo Villegas and Lee Westwood, never gave his opponent a chance as putt after putt found its destination. The win, his third on The European Tour, moves him to fourth in The Race to Dubai, after he claimed the €750,000 winner's cheque, and 17th in the Official World Golf Ranking. The victory was no less than Fisher deserves after a stellar season that saw him emerge as the best performing player in the world across all four majors combined.
"This is a massive confidence boost for me," said Fisher who headed straight off to China for the WGC-HSBC Champions before a trip to Dubai for the Dubai World Championship and a shot at becoming Europe's No. 1. "I felt like I played well and did a good job of putting the pressure on him. I was relieved to get to 3-up though. At that point I knew I just had to finish the job off.
"I could have won every Major this year if things had gone my way - I led all four at some point - so I've been very consistent without winning. But this is a big step up for me. Anything with the word 'world' in the title has to mean a great deal."
Worldwide Golf congratulates Ross on his fantastic victory. Look out for our December issue where Ross will telling us all about his experiences in Spain.
- Daly back to action after quick recovery 29/10/2009
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JOHN Daly will play in the Australian Open and Australian PGA golf tournaments in December after recovering more quickly than expected from a rib injury, reversing his decision in September to withdraw from them.
"My recovery from stem cell surgery has been closely monitored by my doctor and I have been cleared to begin playing competitively," said Daly. "As such, I have accepted invitations to play in the 2009 Australian Open and Australian PGA Championship and I regret the confusion the injury process has caused."
- Golf given tee time at 2016 Olympics 29/10/2009
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GOLF will be an Olympic sport at the 2016 Olympic Games after it was voted into the programme by the International Olympic Committee with a 63 to 27 split.
"It's win-win for both sides - golf is such a global sport. I couldn't think of a better sport to be part of the Olympic Games," said World No.1 Tiger Woods.
- OMEGA Dubai Ladies Masters Changes its Schedule - Volunteers needed 22/10/2009
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IN a slight break from tradition, the 2009 Dubai Ladies Masters champion will be crowned on a Saturday instead of a Sunday when the Ladies European Tour event gets under way at the Emirates Golf Club next month.
Announcing new dates of the tournament, ‘golf in DUBAI’ - the promoters and event - said the tournament kicks off on Wednesday, December 9 and the final round will be played on Saturday, December 12.In line with the tradition, the tournament will be preceded by a pro-am on December 8 and a challenge match, featuring marquee players, on December 7.
“Since we have a Friday-Saturday weekend in the UAE, it makes sense to have a Saturday finish which would encourage more spectators to come to the venue, adding to the carnival-like atmosphere there,” said Mohamed Juma Buamaim, vice-chairman and CEO of 'golf in DUBAi.
”We are grateful to the Ladies European Tour for giving their nod to the weekend finish which, I think, will greatly enhance the profile of the event in all areas, also adding more value to the hospitality packages.“Since the inception of the Dubai Ladies Masters in 2006, the tournament, which also marks the end of the LET season, has created quite a buzz in the region. No doubt about that. I think there is another dimension to it - and that's somehow the players feel comfortable in Dubai.”
“Whether it’s our hospitality or whether that’s the way Dubai is, I don't know. The formula, somehow, is working and that’s great for Dubai. That’s great for golf in Dubai too.”
The presence of world-class players like Annika Sorenstam, who has since called it a day, Laura Davies, Karrie Webb, Natalia Gulbis, Gwladys Nocera, Sophie Gustafason and Catriona Matthews over the last three years has firmly established the Dubai Ladies Masters a most sought-after event on the Ladies European Tour.
This year again there will be no entry fee and the intention is to encourage and motivate more ladies to take to the sport.
Organisers have also called upon golfing enthusiasts to come forward and be part of the action when the season-ending Ladies European Tour event gets under way at the Emirates Golf Club
‘golf in DUBAI' – the promoters and organisers of the €500,000 tournament - estimates over 150 volunteers will be required to act as marshals, scorers, TV production assistants, scoreboard carriers and carry out other related positions as needed.
“The role of the volunteers will be crucial in continuing to showcase Dubai as the 'city of golf', as we strive to make the Dubai Ladies Masters the most successful tournament on the Ladies European Tour,” stated Mohamed Juma Buamaim, vice-chairman and CEO of 'golf in DUBAI.'
All golf fans wishing to be part of Dubai's premier ladies event may visit the tournament website --- www.dubailadiesmasters.com or www.golfindubai.org – for online registration. Preference will be given to those volunteers who can commit to two or more days.
- Westwood breaks two-year drought with Portuguese win 20/10/2009
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LEE Westwood won his first title since the 2007 British Masters with a superb two-stroke victory over Italian Francesco Molinari at the Portugal Masters.
The Englishman fired a 6-under-par 66 to shoot up the leaderboard and into the top spot ahead of Molinari, who started the day in second place and overnight leader Retief Goosen, who slipped to sixth place.
“It was nice to finish it off, you never know when the next win is going to come and you start to question yourself,” said Westwood, who took the lead in The Race to Dubai with his €500,000 winner’s cheque. “You always slightly doubt yourself in the back of your mind and to be number one again feels great. It’s been nearly ten years since I won it (the Order of Merit).”
Westwood opened with rounds of 66 and 67 before weekend rounds of 66 saw him take the title at 23-under-par, and the win takes him up to fifth on the Official World Golf Ranking.
“I’m delighted about the world rankings. I always have a good look at that and it’s a reflection of my consistency,” he said. “But winning is definitely a habit and I got out of the habit. Hopefully now I have won again I can win more.”
Molinari had to settle for his second runner-up finish of the season while Ireland’s Padraig Harrington finished in outright third place.
“I struggled a bit with the putter today,” said Molinari. “Right now I’m disappointed but probably tomorrow I will feel better.”
Harrington had fired himself into contention with opening rounds of 69 and 62 but a third round 71 saw him drop down to 14th place, six shots off the lead entering the final round. The three time Major winner carded a superb final round 67 but it wasn’t enough to challenge for the top spot.
“In hindsight I think I got dehydrated,” said Harrington. “I struggled to concentrate. I drank a phenomenal amount, just not enough. My trainer was watching on TV and you can see it in your face - your eyes really.”
- TOP 10 TRIO EYE ABU DHABI’S FALCON TROPHY 15/10/2009
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Casey, Garcia, and Ogilvy Vie For Abu Dhabi Golf Championship Glory
TWO-time Abu Dhabi Golf Championship winner and World No. 4, England's Paul Casey, will return this January to defend his crown, in a bid to extend the impressive form that has re-catapulted him to the forefront of the golfing world.
The 32-year-old, however, will have his work cut out for him, as Spanish swing wizard and world number eight, Sergio Garcia, and Abu Dhabi debutant, Australian Geoff Ogilvy - the current World No. 10 - have also thrown their hats in the ring for the European Tour-sanctioned 2010 Championship, which runs 21-24th January at Abu Dhabi Golf Club's sublime Par-72 National Course.
And with three of the world's top 10 golfers now teed-up, Faisal Al Sheikh, Head, Major Event's Division, Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) - which organises the four-day spectacle - believes the landmark fifth edition of the US$2 million Championship will be a major boost to the emirate's growing credentials as an emerging world-class golfing destination.
"The Championship's success over the last four years has gone a long way to cementing Abu Dhabi's status as one to watch on the global golfing scene. The sport continues to form a key pillar of our long-term destination product, and will do so for the foreseeable future. We have no less than three great courses being finalised throughout the emirate and the people visiting and watching this Championship are connecting with a world-class golfing destination in the making," said Al Sheikh.
One player who knows more than most about the UAE capital is Casey, the only player to lift Abu Dhabi's coveted Falcon trophy twice: in 2007 and 2009 - the last of which kick-started a run of form where he clinched the Shell Houston Open and BMW PGA Championship. Casey is fully aware of what an Abu Dhabi win can do for a player's season.
"The Abu Dhabi victory really gave my season a boost and helped me build momentum over the following months. As one of the first major events of the year, a good showing here can really make the difference, especially with the Majors teeing off not long after," said Casey, who is sponsored by Abu Dhabi developer ALDAR, which is behind the Kyle Phillips-designed Yas Island course, set to be the emirate's first links course.
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And Casey - who has 11 Tour wins under his belt - is keen to become the first golfer to retain the Falcon in back-to-back attempts.
"I have strong ties with Abu Dhabi, both on and off the course, and coming here always feels like home away from home. The National is stunning and fits my game nicely and I know what is needed to win. For me, it's about doing the right preparation, getting focused during the winter break and coming to Abu Dhabi in the right frame of mind," said Casey, who carded a Championship record this year with a stunning 21-under par to hold off 2008 Champion, Germany's Martin Kaymer.
"Being the only player to win twice in Abu Dhabi is a fantastic personal achievement. I now want to see if I can do it two years on the trot. I know the 2010 field is going to be extremely strong, and there are going to be guys out there who are hungry to win. I just need to be hungrier."
Five times Ryder Cup star Garcia, one of the youngest ever players to compete in the biennial competition, is a familiar favourite at the Abu Dhabi event, having competed in the UAE capital for the last three years.
Adored on both sides of the Atlantic, the fiery Spaniard - the 2008 US Players' Champion and US Tour Championship runner-up - knows that securing an elusive Abu Dhabi win will be an important catalyst to his 2010 season.
"I've been playing pretty consistently over the last year but I know there's more to come. As one of the first events in 2010, everyone looks to the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship to get the ball rolling and build momentum for the long season ahead," said Garcia, who has 19 professional wins under his belt.
"The Championship is one of the most enjoyable events on the calendar. The hospitality is unparalleled, the course plays great and the competition is intense. I'm looking forward to getting out there and hitting my best."
The imposing 6' 2" Aussie Ogilvy - whose career highlights include snatching the 2006 US Open by a one shot stroke and being a triple World Golf Championships winner - is hoping his lack of Abu Dhabi experience won't be an issue come January.
"I've already heard a lot about the National Course from many of the other guys that have played there. I enjoy a fresh challenge and I'm intrigued to see what all the hype is about," said Ogilvy, who beat Casey earlier in the year to win the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship in Arizona, USA.
Ogilvy, who notes golf course design as a hobby, is also relishing the opportunity to take in some of the UAE capital's latest golfing initiatives, including the Gary Player designed, Saadiyat Beach Golf Course - the Arabian Gulf's only ocean front course.
"I understand that Abu Dhabi has made some impressive strides in establishing itself as a golfing destination, and I wouldn't mind having the chance to look around. I know the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club will be open to play when I'm there, so I hope to take the time to check it out."
All four days of the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship will be covered live on high definition TV, reaching a global audience of over 140 million in many of the ADTA's key global markets.
The 2010 Championship formally begins on Wednesday, January 20th with the Al-Masaood Pro-Am and Awards Gala when sponsors and their guests will play and socialise with some of the world's best professionals.
- Magnificent Dyson wins big at St Andrews 09/10/2009
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SIMON Dyson wrapped up the biggest win of his career with a superb three-shot victory over Rory McIlroy and Oliver Wilson at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship.
Dyson carded a 68 round Carnoustie on the opening day and followed it with rounds of 6-under 66 at St Andrews and a 68 at Kingbarns before sealing the victory with another memorable 66 at St Andrews for a 20-under-par total.
“This is like our fifth major – it’s a massive tournament at the Home of Golf and I’ve shot 66 to win it,” beamed Dyson. “I'm absolutely buzzing. Darren Clarke has just said to me ‘Take your time and enjoy it - it does not get any better than winning at St Andrews’.
“My parents always come up (to the tournament), but couldn’t make it this year. They’re never coming back!”
The 1999 Walker Cup player admits he is a lot more dedicated to his golf after his second victory on The European Tour this season following his KLM Open win. “I might have done better but I don’t regret one thing that I’ve done,” Dyson said. “You’re travelling the world and you’ve got to enjoy yourself.
“I’ve still got a lot of time left in my career hopefully - touch wood. I’ve settled down a lot, I’m the happiest away from the course that I’ve ever been, and what more do you want?”
Wilson carded a best-of-the-day 7-under 65 at St Andrews to jump into a share of second place alongside McIlroy who shot a 69. McIlroy moved into the lead on The Race to Dubai with his second place prize money of €281,640.
“After nine holes I thought I had a really good chance but Simon played great so hats off to him,” said McIlroy. “I wanted better but second is okay. I still haven’t shot in the 70s at St Andrews, which is nice.”
- Familiar faces win at East Lake 29/09/2009
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PHIL Mickelson won The Tour Championship by three shots but couldn’t prevent Tiger Woods from taking the FedExCup as the World No.1 finished runner-up to win the Play-offs.
Mickelson shot the only bogey-free round of the day on the Sunday as his 5-under-par 65 saw him shoot from four shots back overnight into a commanding lead. With Mickelson in the winner’s circle Woods needed to finish strongly if he was to win the FedExCup and did so with back-to-back birdies on 15 and 16 which helped him seal a level-par 72 for second place.
Overnight leader Kenny Perry faltered to a 4-over 74 to finish fourth alongside Padraig Harrington with Sean O’Hair finishing outright third.
- Great Britain & Ireland see off Europe 29/09/2009
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GREAT Britain & Ireland won their fifth successive Vivendi Trophy with Seve Ballesteros after despite a spirited comeback from Continental Europe in Paris.
GB& I laid the foundations for victory with excellent performances on the opening two days which gave them a two point lead heading into Saturday. They then dominated the Saturday matches taking the fourballs 3-1 and the foursomes 3½ - ½ which gave them a commanding lead heading into the singles.
The Northern Irish duo of Rory McIlroy and Greame McDowell won the first two singles matches on the Sunday against Swedes Henrik Stenson and Robert Karlsson respectively to clinch the victory with eight matches still on the course.
The final score was Great Britain & Ireland 16 ½ - 11 ½ Continental Europe.
- Wonderful Woods seals Cog Hill victory 14/09/2009
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TIGER Woods shot a course-record 9-undr-par 62 in the third round of the BMW Championship at Cog Hill which helped him to an eight-shot victory over Jim Furyk and Marc Lieshman.
Woods came home with a final round 3-under 68 to pick up his first victory since his unprecedented loss at the PGA Championship.
"To play as well as I have of late and not get the Wins has been a little bit frustrating, no doubt, because I've been so close," said Woods. "It's just been a matter of making a couple of putts here and there, and I would have won the tournaments. And lo and behold, boom! I hit the ball just as well, just as consistent this week, and I made a few putts. And that's how it happens."
Woods now moves onto The Tour Championship at the top of the FedExCup points list ahead of Steve Stricker.
- Wonderful Woods seals Cog Hill victory 14/09/2009
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TIGER Woods shot a course-record 9-undr-par 62 in the third round of the BMW Championship at Cog Hill which helped him to an eight-shot victory over Jim Furyk and Marc Lieshman.
Woods came home with a final round 3-under 68 to pick up his first victory since his unprecedented loss at the PGA Championship.
"To play as well as I have of late and not get the Wins has been a little bit frustrating, no doubt, because I've been so close," said Woods. "It's just been a matter of making a couple of putts here and there, and I would have won the tournaments. And lo and behold, boom! I hit the ball just as well, just as consistent this week, and I made a few putts. And that's how it happens."
Woods now moves onto The Tour Championship at the top of the FedExCup points list ahead of Steve Stricker.
- Stricker is the boss at Boston 08/09/2009
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STEVE Stricker birdied the final two holes of the Deutsche Bank Championship at TPC Boston to win by one shot and elevate himself to a career-high of second place on the Official World Golf Ranking.
The American carded a 4-under-par 67 to beat Jason Dufner and Scott Verplank – both of whom had made late charges at the title. Verplank birdied the final four holes to card a 6-under 65 but it wasn’t to be as Stricker got up and down from 40 feet for birdie on the par-5 18th to seal his third win of the season.
“Knowing I had to make a couple of birdies and actually doing it means a lot,” said Stricker, who now leads the FedExCup from Tiger Woods. “It was a tough day. There was a lot of guys in the mix, and I just found a way to get it done.”
Angel Cabrera, Dustin Johnson and Padraig Harrington finished two shots back in a share for fourth place.
- Slocum beats the best at The Barclays 01/09/2009
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HEATH Slocum sank a 21-footer for par on the final green to win The Barclays by one shot from Steve Stricker, Ernie Els, Padraig Harrington and Tiger Woods at Liberty National Golf Club, New York.
The 35-year-old started the final round four strokes off the pace at the first event of the PGA TOUR Play Offs for the FedExCup but shot up the leaderboard after holing out from 158 yards for an eagle at the fifth hole. He then birdied the par-5 sixth but gave a shot back at the next hole.
Slocum picked up another stroke at the par-5 13th which took him to 9-under and he held on to that score with some clutch par putts down the stretch – none more memorable than the lengthy putt on the final hole. Stricker was playing alongside Slocum and he too had a tricky par putt to stay at 9-under on the final green but he slid it right to drop a shot.
With the likes of Woods, Els and Harrington still out on the course Slocum couldn’t relax, but as he watched none of the three past Major winners make birdies on 18 he could celebrate a famous win.
“I didn’t even know if I was going to be here,” said Slocum, who missed the cut a week earlier at the Wyndham Championship. “I came in with the attitude that I’ve got nothing to lose and I’ll let it hang out and just play the best I can.”
Slocum came into The Barclays 197th on the Official World Golf ranking but finished at 9-under for the biggest win of his career. Slocum’s other two victories were at opposite-field events on the PGA TOUR, where the best players in the world were competing elsewhere - either a Major or a World Golf Championships event.
- UAE HOPEFULS PERFORM WELL ON ALPS TOUR 27/08/2009
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AHMED Al Musharrekh and Khalid Yousuf turned in some encouraging performances in the Uniqa FinanceLife Open held at the Golf Club Gut Murstätten at Lebring in Austria in late July.
Al Musharrekh (pictured) comfortably made the cut on the challenging 7,017-yard layout with tidy sub-par rounds of 70 and 71, but consecutive 6-over-par 78s in the third and final rounds prevented him from making a strong finish in the tournament which was an important stop on the demanding Alps Tour.
Yousuf also got off to an impressive start, carding 1-under-par 71, but he stumbled to a disappointing 81 in the second and missed the cut by six shots.The top UAE golfer, who has twice featured in the Dubai Desert Classic, opened his second round with a birdie, but lost his momentum and a triple bogey on the long 564-yard, par-5 17th hole further added to his woes.
Meanwhile Al Musharrekh made his presence felt with some solid golf. Playing his first major tournament at the international level, Al Musharrekh negotiated the course with a mature performances in the first two rounds, but in the end had to settle for tied 50th at 3-over-par 219, 16 shots behind the winner Paolo Terrini of Italy.
Spurred on by a good showing in Austria, Al Musharrekh is determined to use his steady performance as a springboard to greater things when the new season gets under way in October. “Overall, I am pleased with my performance,” he said. “I could have done much better. Now I know what it takes to compete at this high-level of golf. I will try and use the experience to my advantage in the forthcoming tournaments.”
- USA WIN THIRD SUCCESSIVE SOLHEIM CUP 26/08/2009
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TEAM USA won their third Solheim Cup in a row thanks to a dominant singles display at Rich Harvest Farms in Sugar Grove, Illinois.
Going into the Sunday tied with Europe on 8 points, the Americans took the singles matches by a margin of 8 points to 4 to give them a 16-12 winning total – the same score of the 2007 Matches at Halmstad in Sweden.
The Americans got off to a flyer with early wins for Paula Creamer, Angela Stanford and Michelle Wie.
Stanford was first to score after crushing Becky Brewerton 5&4 shortly before Creamer claimed a 3&2 victory over Norway’s Suzann Pettersen to take a two-point lead.
Wie then made it 11-8 after halving the difficult par-5 18th hole with Europe’s 2007 Captain Helen Alfredsson to win 1up.
Europe got their first point on the board thanks to the recently crowned Ricoh Women’s British Open champion Catriona Matthew who defeated Kristy McPherson 3&2.
However, there was little time for celebrations on the European side as Cup stalwart Laura Davies – playing in her 11th consecutive Solheim Cup – halved her match after Brittany Lang made a birdie to share the spoils to make the score 11½-9½.
Brittany Lincicome, who won her first LPGA Tour title at the 2006 HSBC Women’s World Match Play Championship, added another point to the U.S Team’s tally with a 3&2 victory over Sophie Gustafson before American veteran Juli Inkster took her team to within one point of retaining the Cup after she halved her match with Gwladys Nocera.
Italian Diana Luna – a two time winner on this year’s Ladies European Tour – convincingly beat Nicole Castrale 3&2 after leading from the first but European celebrations were again short lived as Floridian Morgan Pressel defeated Anna Nordqvist on the 16th hole 3&2 to get to the magic number of 14 points and retain the Cup.
“It’s been a long week,” smiled Pressel. “We played great and I’m so proud of my team. It’s a great feeling.”
- Historic Yang downs Woods at US PGA Championship 19/08/2009
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YONG-Eun Yang produced the best golf of his career to beat Tiger Woods in the final round of the 91st US PGA Championship at Hazeltine.
The South Korean became the first Asian-born male to win a major after he came from two shots behind Woods overnight to beat the World No.1 by three. Yang chipped in for eagle on the par-4 14th to take a one-shot lead and then struck a stunning hybrid 3-iron to the 18th green and sunk the resulting birdie putt for a 2-under 70. Woods bogeyed the last to compound his own misery as his 3-over 75 saw him lose a major when entering the final round with the lead for the first time in his career.
“I knew the odds were against me. I tried to be the least nervous I have ever been and went for broke,” said Yang, “I’ve sort of visualised this quite a few times - playing against the best player in the history of golf, playing with him in the final round in a major. I have always dreamed about this.”
Woods, whose run of winning all 14 of his majors when leading heading into the final day came to an end, said: “It was a fun battle. He played beautifully. He did everything he needed to do. I played well enough the entire week to win the championship - I hit the ball great off the tee, hit my irons well. I did everything I needed to do except for getting the ball in the hole. You have to make putts and I didn't do that.”
England’s Lee Westwood and Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy tied for third, two shots behind Woods on 3-under while US Open champion Lucas Glover finished 2-under.
- Matthew holds on to win maiden major 03/08/2009
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CATRIONA Matthew became the first Scottish woman to win a Major after a composed victory at the Ricoh Women’s British Open at Royal Lytham & St Annes.
Matthew held on to a three-shot overnight lead to win by three from 2002 winner, Australian Karrie Webb.
Matthew began the final day with bogeys on holes 1 and 3 but steadied the ship around with three consecutive birdies from the 13th to give her an almost unassailable lead. The Scot could even afford a bogey on the 17th as she closed out the three-shot win with a steady par on the final hole. “I can't quite believe it,” said Matthew. “It hasn’t sunk in yet. Coming up the last I had tears in my eyes and I had to hold myself together for those last two putts.”
Matthew, who gave birth to her second child 11 weeks prior, is only the fourth Brit to win a major and the first since England’s Karen Stupples triumphed at the same tournament at Sunningdale in 2004.
Americans Paula Creamer and Christina Kim and Japan's Ai Miyazato and Korean Hee-Won Han finishing joint third, one shot behind Webb. Creamer had been on course for a second place finish but found a horrid lie in a fairway bunker on the final hole which led to a double bogey six.
- Woods back to winning ways on home patch 03/08/2009
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AFTER missing just his second cut in a major since turning professional at The Open at Turnberry last month, Tiger Woods bounced back with a stunning three-shot victory at the Buick Open at Warwick Hills.
Woods opened with a disappointing 1-under 71, eight shots back from first-round leader Steve Lowery. However, the World No.1 bounced back in superb fashion carding rounds of 63 and 65 to lead by one shot on 17-under par. He then closed out the win with a bogey-free 3-under 69 to win his 69th PGA TOUR title.
“Today was one of those days,” said Woods. “The golf course got a little tricky, and the greens got a little bit bumpy. So it was more difficult to make a lot of birdies and really take it low. So I was really hoping I could shoot something in the 60s - high 60s - and I thought that would be good enough to win.”
American Roland Thatcher finished in a tie for second place after a best-of-the-day 8-under 64 which lifted him from 29th over night and into a pay-cheque worth $380,800.
Australians Greg Chalmers and John Senden finished alongside Thatcher in the runner-up position on 17-under-par after rounds of 68 and 70 respectively.
- Young guns to test their skills on the Alps Tour 20/07/2009
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KHALID Yousuf and Ahmed Al Musharrekh will make their first appearance in an Alps Tour event when they feature in the Uniqa FinanceLife Open at the Golf Club Gut Murstätten at Lebring in Austria, from July 23 to 25.
The two leading UAE golfers have been selected by the Emirates Golf Federation as part of its ambitious drive to expose the homegrown talent to a high-level of competition.
Leading professionals and amateurs will be showcasing their skills during the tournament, part of the Alps Tour which has been created to give young players the opportunity to play and earn their chance to step up to the European Challenge Tour and gain exemptions from Stage One of the European Tour Qualifying School.
Yousuf is no stranger to playing in the company of top professionals having twice competed in the Dubai Desert Classic, but for Al Musharrekh it will be his first exposure to such a high level of golf.
The pair were selected for the trip following their impressive showing on the regional circuit. They were instrumental in guiding the UAE team to a creditable second-place finish - just one shot behind winners Bahrain - in the recent GCC Golf Championship where Al Musharrekh also won the individual championship with a gross 216.
“Both Khalid and Ahmed have already made their mark on the regional circuit and it’s time they should be competing at the international level to hone their competitive edge,” said Saeed Albudoor, general manager of the Emirates Golf Federation.
“If their recent form is any indication, I am sure they will do well in Austria. We, at Emirates Golf Federation, are committed to providing the players the best playing opportunities that we can and this Austrian trip is very much part of our initiative to try and keep the momentum going.
“I am sure the exposure that Khalid and Ahmed are getting at the international level will motivate other national players to take up golf seriously.”
Chris Vallender, the UAE team’s coach, is pleased that the pair are having an opportunity to play competitive golf with other hopeful young golfers.
“There is no short cut to success,” he said. “The best thing is that the boys are willing to sweat it out and that’s quite encouraging. The experience of playing with aspiring professionals will go a long way in building the confidence in their abilities.”
- Watson sunk by solid Cink at 138th Open Championship 20/07/2009
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TOM Watson's dreams of a sixth Open Championship title at the age of 59 were dashed as fellow American Stewart Cink defeated him after a four-hole play-off at Turnberry.
Cink won the play-off by six shots to win his first Major title at the expense of Watson who was gunning for a fairytale victory.
"I'm a little intimidated by this piece of hardware," said Cink after lifting the Claret Jug. "There are a lot of emotions running through my mind and my heart and I'm just proud to be here with this. Playing against Tom Watson, this stuff just does not happen. I grew up watching him - he has turned back the clock and I feel so happy just being part of it."
Cink posted a clubhouse total of 2-under par after sinking a 15-foot birdie putt on the final green, a putt he later called "The most crucial putt I have ever struck."
Watson was playing in the final group and just needed to par the final hole to finish one stroke ahead of Cink. However, after his approach to the green went through the back he over-hit his third stroke to leave a testing 8-footer for the win. But after three days of seemingly nerveless golf, Watson's stroke deserted him as he missed the putt short and right.
After the miss in regulation Watson's quest faded as struggled with the demand of the four extra holes and Cink took advantage to win the first Major of his career.
"It would have been a hell of a story," said Watson. "It wasn't to be, and yes, it's a great disappointment. It tears at your gut, as it always has torn at my gut. It's not easy to take."
English due Chris Wood and Lee Westwood finished in a share of third place, one stroke behind the winning total. Westwood three-putted the final green to drop a shot which cost him a place in the play-off.
- STRICKER GOES DEERE HUNTING 16/07/2009
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STEVE Stricker moved up to No. 2 behind Tiger Woods in the FedExCup standings after claiming his second PGA TOUR title of the season at the John Deere Classic.
The tournament was hit by rain storms on the Friday causing the second round to be pushed back to Saturday with a mammoth 36-hole final on Sunday. But Stricker's spirit certainly wasn't dampened.
Having opened with a 71 round the TPC Deere Run course, the Illinois native shot the round of his career with a course record equaling 10-under 61 in the second round before following with third-round 68 and a closing 64 to take the title by three strokes from local favourite Zach Johnson and Brandt Snedeker.
"It was a very long day and I'm ecstatic to be sitting here as the champion," said Stricker who finished 20-under 264 to claim the $774,000 winner's cheque. "I just tried to keep patient today and go about my game plan like I've been doing every other day. You know, it worked out. I hit a lot of good shots, putted well, and I'm very happy to be sitting here."
Johnson, who grew up just over an hour away in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and is one of the tournament's directors, was delighted to record his highest ever finish in the event in front of hordes of adoring fans.
"This place has really done a lot for me," he said. "John Deere gave me two sponsor's exemptions. Now, I'm on the board of the tournament. I come here because I love the golf course for sure, family, friends."
- TIGER WARMS UP FOR OPEN WITH WIN 07/07/2009
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TIGER Woods sent out an omminous warning to his rivals ahead of the The Open Championship by claiming his 68th PGA TOUR title at the AT&T National at Congressional Country Club.
The World No. 1, who hosts the tournament in Maryland, shared the overnight lead with Anthony Kim but took the title by a stroke from Hunter Mahan after firing a final-round 67 for a 13-under total of 268. It was his third win of the season, having also claimed titles at the Arnold Palmer Invitational and Jack Nicklaus' Memorial, and sees him in great shape heading into the third major of the season at Turnberry this month.
Mahan made a valliant effort with a course-record equalling 62 which had him in a tie for the lead until Woods pulled away with a huge 20-foot birdie putt on the 16th, which ultimately proved the difference.
"This golf course is not easy and we only have basically one real birdie chance coming in, which was 16," said Woods. "At the very end it started going left and it was like, 'Oh God just don't lip out now'. It went in."
Mahan commented: It was kind of in Tiger's court there. The first three days were a little ugly. I swung great all week but today the putting was great. I'm just really proud of the way I finished."
Having failed to take he spoils in either the Masters or the U.S. Open this year, Woods will now focus his energies on success at Turnberry.
- Glover hangs on for US Open glory 24/06/2009
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LUCAS Glover won the 109th US Open Championship at a rain-soaked Bethpage Black after surviving a late charge from Phil Mickelson and David Duval.
Glover clinched his first Major win by two shots from Mickelson, former World No.1 Duval and third-round leader Ricky Barnes.
Worldwide Golf columnist Ross Fisher finished three shots back in fifth place for his best finish in a Major Championship.
Playing in the last group alongside Barnes, Glover made only one birdie in the rain-delayed final round at the 16th which saw him take the lead with the finishing line in sight. He closed with two pars for a 3-over 73 and victory over the chasing pack. “It was a test of patience, that’s for sure,” said Glover who was ranked 71st in the world at the start of the tournament. “I dreamed about (winning) as a kid and pulled it off. It’s an honour to be on the trophy with names such as Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Tiger Woods.”
- Woods storms to Memorial success 15/06/2009
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TIGER Woods carded a sensational 7-under 65 to come from four strokes back overnight to win the Memorial Tournament by one shot from Jim Furyk.
“I knew I could do this,” said Woods after birdies on the final two holes gave him the victory. “I was close to winning, but the game wasn’t quite there when I really needed it on Sunday. I rectified that.”
Woods, who started the day in a share of seventh place, posted a clubhouse lead of two shots on 12-under par and Furyk – the only player out on the course with a realistic chance of catching Woods – could not match Woods’ birdie-birdie finish to tie the World No.1.
Furyk did close with a birdie to finish outright second, three shots clear of Jonathan Byrd and Mark Wilson in joint third place.
“I felt comfortable hitting it left-to-right, right-to-left,” said Woods. “I didn’t have a problem taking the ball up in the air or bringing it down. That’s what I was looking for. That’s what I was able to do at home in my practice sessions, and now it’s just a matter of carrying it out here onto a tournament venue and doing it.”
Woods, who hit 14 fairways out of 14 on the final day, was in imperious form and Furyk paid tribute to his efforts. “I think he answered a lot of questions today,” said Furyk who carded his best result on The PGA TOUR so far this season. “I played well today,” he continued, “I hit the ball really well and I hit a lot of good putts – I’m actually proud of the way I played.”
- Cévaër clings on for European Open triumph 04/06/2009
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FRENCHMAN Christian Cévaër won The European Open after a dogged display at a windy London Golf Club earned him a one-shot victory and the biggest cheque of his career.
“This is a fantastic day for me,” said the 39-year-old, who parred the difficult last to clinch the victory. “I am ecstatic to come out on top. What a great surprise it was to see the big leaderboard when I was coming up the hill at the 18th and that I was the only guy left on 7-under. I am proud to get the job done.”
Ranked No.449 going into the event, Cévaër beat one of the strongest fields assembled on The European Tour this season after four rounds of solid golf.
Cévaër carded opening rounds of 67, 70 and 70 for a 9-under total heading into Sunday alongside Indian Jeev Milkha Singh and held a three-stoke lead over the likes of Rory McIlroy, Alvaro Quiros and Chris Wood.
After three bogeys on the outward nine and just one birdie on his card all day at the par-5 15th, Cévaër still found himself in contention after playing partner Singh had fallen down the field.
Cévaër needed to par the 471-yard par-4 last hole – statistically the hardest closing hole so far on The European Tour - to win the title and did so in composed fashion after knocking a drive and then a rescue club into the heart of the green. He needed two putts for victory and he duly obliged before being doused in Champagne by his fellow countrymen.
“The course was drying out, but I’m really happy the way I swung it overall,” he said after lifting the trophy. “I just didn’t catch the right breaks on the front nine. I went into the rough a few times and just couldn't get it up-and-down. But to come out in the end on top - and luckily as some other players struggled too, because of the wind and the greens drying – it’s Fantastic.”
- Stricker steps in to deny Clark 04/06/2009
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STEVE Stricker took advantage of Tim Clark’s missed par putt on the 18th in regulation as he defeated the South African and Steve Marino in sudden-death at the Crown Plaza Invitational at Colonial.
Clark missed a 9-footer for par in regulation to finish 17-under total, level with between Americans Stricker and Marino. All three players then missed birdie putts as they re-played the 18th for the first play-off hole – Clark pulling his putt from seven feet – before going back to the 17th to see if a winner could be decided.
Marino was out of contention after a wayward drive but solid irons off the tee gave Stricker and Clarke good angles in to the green. Stricker knocked his to four feet and Clarke, knowing his needed to be aggressive, saw his ball hit the pin and spin back 20 feet away from the cup. He missed his putt leaving Stricker with a short birdie putt for his fifth PGA TOUR title.
“I feel fortunate,” said Stricker, who collected $1,116,000 and 500 FedExCup points for the victory. “I’ve been on the other end a couple times this year where you feel you’re going to win and end up losing. This feels very good.”
Clarke was left cursing his luck as he still searches for his first PGA TOUR win despite winning three times on The European Tour. “I can’t take anything positive from today,” said the 33-year-old. “I have a lot of work to do when it comes to closing out golf tournaments.”
- CASEY BIRDIES THE 18th TO WIN BMW PGA CHAMPIONSHIP 26/05/2009
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PAUL Casey moved up to a career-best No.3 on the Official World Golf Rankings thanks to a superb one-stroke victory over Ross Fisher at the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth.
Casey needed to birdie the final hole after Fisher carded a best-of-the-week 8-under 64 and did so by getting down in two from a greenside trap. He found a sandy lie after his second shot but splashed out to five feet leaving a testing downhill left-to-right putt. “It was not an easy putt, but any putt to win is something I would like to have,” said the 31-year-old who, having started the year 41st in the world, now sits behind Phil Mickelson and Tiger Woods in the ranking thanks to three tournament victories in the space of five months.
“The BMW PGA Championship is our flagship event on The European Tour and I’ve always wanted to get my hands on this trophy,” he said after the biggest win of his career so far. “There are great names on this trophy and it feels great. A lot of people have put in a lot of work, but I have to give special thanks to Peter Kostis, my coach in the States.”
- Sabbatini gets back to winning ways 26/05/2009
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RORY Sabbatini won his first tournament in two years thanks to a superb final-round 64 at the HP Byron Nelson Championship for a two-stroke victory over England’s Brian Davis.
Sabbatini, whose last PGA TOUR title came in his residential state of Texas at the 2007 Crowne Plaza Invitational at Colonial, made sure of the victory with a third successive birdie on the 17th which gave him a three-shot lead heading up the last hole. He received a huge ovation as he walked up the final fairway and his tap-in bogey sealed the victory.
“Obviously this tournament is very special,” Sabbatini said. “It’s one that I wish I had been able to win and look up and see Byron sitting there at the 18th green. What a wonderful name to be associated with now.”
The South African, who lives in Fort Worth, Texas, finished on 19-under 261 at TPC Four Seasons Resort Las Colinas to break the previous best tournament victory total of 18-under set by Loren Roberts and play-off loser Steve Pate in 1999.
- Muirfield announced as future Open venue 19/05/2009
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Muirfield has been announced as the venue for The Open Championship in 2013 by the R&A.
South African Ernie Els was the victor the last time the venue hosted the event in 2002 when he triumphed after a four-man four-hole play-off.
“We are delighted that the Open is returning to Muirfield,” said David Hill, R&A director of championships. “It is an outstanding championship course that consistently produces a very worthy champion.”
Muirfield will follow Opens at Turnberry (2009), St Andrews (2010), Royal St Georges (2011) and Royal Lytham & St Annes (2012).
- Lowry wins dream Irish Open 18/05/2009
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SHANE Lowry defied his status as an amateur as he defeated the in-form Robert Rock in sudden-death to win The 3 Irish Open at County Louth Golf Club.
Lowry looked to have the tournament in the bag when he pitched to four feet on the final hole of regulation but he missed the putt which would have sealed victory.
“I didn't think I would have a better chance than that,” he admitted afterwards. But thankfully for the 22-year-old he did – at the third extra hole – and he took it to complete a dream victory.
Rock missed a nine footer for victory at the first play-off hole and the pair shared the next in birdies. However, on their third trip down the 18th Rock pitched over the green and failed to get up and down leaving Lowry with a tap-in par for victory.
“I can’t believe it - this is going to take a long time to sink in,” said Lowry, who was playing in his first European Tour event.
Rock had to settle for this third runner-up finish of the season but took home the first prize cheque of €500,000 as Lowry was ineligible to prize money. “It is a little bit of a consolation,” said Rock who was quick to congratulate his victor. “It’s absolutely unbelievable what Shane’s done. So I’m happy for him.”
- Vancsik cruises to Italian title 11/05/2009
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ARGENTINE Daniel Vancsik fired an assured final-round 6-under-par 65 to complete a six-stroke victory at the BMW Italian Open for his second European Tour title.
“My putting was fantastic,” he said. “I played more aggressive and thought if I got to six or seven under (on the day) the tournament is for me. Now my goal is to get into a Major.”
Vancsik won his first European Tour title in 2007 at the Madeira Islands Open BPI – his 50th start – it was his first ever finish inside the top ten.
He started the day with just a one-stroke lead over Finland’s Roope Kakko but quickly raced into a lead with birdies in four of his opening six holes. He made the turn in 32 and then added three more birdies in the next five holes to post an almost unassailable lead.
Vancsik finished the round with three consecutive pars as he posted a 17-under-par total, six shots ahead of John Daly, Raphaël Jacquelin and Robert Rock. Kakko fell away to a share of eighth place after a 73.
- UAE FINISH SECOND IN GCC CHAMPIONSHIP 28/04/2009
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KHALID Yousuf shot a tidy level-par 72 as the UAE finished second to Bahrain, narrowly missing out on their maiden GCC Golf Championship title at the Sahara Golf and Country Club in Kuwait.
Starting the day four strokes off the pace, the UAE team staged a compelling fight-back before posting an impressive 54-hole gross total of 671, just one shot behind Bahrain who managed to sneak home despite not being at their very best. The Saudi Arabia team finished a distant third on a gross 714.
It was the UAE team that held the centre-stage on the final day of the regional golf summit at the challenging Peter Harradine-designed course. Yousuf, who plays off plus one handicap, led the UAE charge with a flawless 72, the best individual score of the day.
The Musharrekh brothers – Ahmed and Abdulla - fired an identical 77 to contribute to the score while Saeed Malik, the fourth member of the team, carded 81 in the team event where the best three scores were counted towards the total.
Ahmed Al Musharrekh, who shot a sizzling 69 on the opening day, had the distinction of finishing on top in the individual championship with a gross 216 along with Abdullah Sultan of Bahrain, two strokes of ahead of Yousuf.
The UAE had something more to cheer about as Hassan Al Musharrekh won the individual championship in the junior division with a three-round gross total of 233 - one shot ahead of his closest challenger Khalid Atteih of Saudi Arabia.
Faisal Al Marzouqi carded a gross 252 while his brother Sohail was forced to withdraw from the championship after falling sick.
“We have every reason to feel pleased about our team’s performance. The boys did a great job on the final day in particular and nearly upstaged Bahrain,” said Adel Zarouni, secretary-general of the Emirates Golf Federation and head of the UAE delegation to Kuwait. “You do feel bad when you miss out on the championship title by just one shot, but then close finishes are part of any sport. We are proud of the team’s fighting qualities and the way they kept up the pressure on Bahrain was something remarkable.
“I would also like to congratulate Hassan for winning the individual championship. Hassan is fast maturing into a solid player and that’s augurs well for UAE golf.”
UAE’s non-playing captain Khalid Mubarak also paid tributes to the team members, saying they approached the championship with a positive mindset. “We had our chances of winning the championship, but full credit to Bahrain for their consistent play over three days,” he said. “With a runners-up place in the team championship and impressive individual performances by Ahmed, Khalid and Hassan, in particular, we should be very proud of the team’s achievements.”
- Gary Player Invitational a huge success 27/04/2009
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THE Worldwide Golf 100th Anniversary Invitational presented by ECCO and hosted by Gary Player under the Patronage of H.H. Sheikh Saeed bin Mohammed bin Hasher Al Maktoum at Emirates Golf Club on Friday, April 24, was a resounding success.
More than 700 people attended the day which began at 10.30 am with a brunch organised by the South African Business Council where the UAE Ambassador to South Africa, H.E. Yacoob Abba Omar, welcomed Gary to the Emirates.
Gary responded with an inspiring and passionate speech on the subjects of South Africa, diet, health and golf, which included an entertaining insight into his world. He talked about the importance of positive thinking and having the ambition to become the best in the world at whatever you chose to do – or maybe striving to become the best as a person.
It was an enthralling speech, which brought huge applause from the gathering of more than 100 guests.
From the balcony overlooking the Majlis Course Gary made his way to the driving range where he entertained a sizable gallery who were fascinated by his demonstration and his golfing reminiscences. Gary went out of his way to involve the youngsters present and invited some of them to hit a ball with him – which they did to considerable applause.
Gary then went to the 1st tee to hit a ceremonial drive to signal the start of the Invitational before heading for the 7th tee where he hit a drive with each of the 27 four-balls who played in the shotgun fourball two-ball betterball team event, which was won by the Hesson family, who had qualified to play in the Invitational.
In the evening, nearly 200 guests attended the Awards Dinner where Gary Player received a special award for his services to golf in the Middle East from Worldwide Golf and WSP Chairman Sheikh Saeed bin Mohammed bin Hasher Al Maktoum.
Due to the personality, charisma and ability of one of the game’s greatest legends it was a day that all who attended will never forget.
- UAE UNDER-18 TEAM TAKES THE ARAB JUNION GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP 26/04/2009
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Sohail Marzouqi and Hassan Musharrekh produced some solid performances as UAE beat off a strong challenge from a quality field to win the net under-18 team title at the Arab Junior Golf Championship held at the Yasmine Golf Course in Hammanat, Tunisia.
The talented duo also made their presence felt in the gross team division by posting a top four finish behind hosts Tunisia, Qatar and Egypt at the Yasmine course, designed by well known Californian architect Ronald Fream.
Faisal Marzouqi, the third member of the team, has also returned home with something to cheer about after taking fourth place in the under-15 individual category, a creditable effort considering the fact the youngster was playing his first international tournament away from home.
Sohail and Hassan did stutter and stumble in the first round, but staged a compelling fight-back in the second and final round to post a strong finish. Sohail shot gross rounds of 102 and 92 while Hassan carded 100 and 82 in the championship which had drawn entries from several Arab countries, including Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Egypt, Lebanon Libya, Morocco, Palestine and Qatar.
They could have done even better but were left bemoaning the shots that got away. “I think overall we have done well,” UAE coach Chris Vallender said. “The experience gained from the championship will go a long way in honing their competitive edge.
“I am, in particular, pleased with the way young Faisal handled the pressure. His back-to-back 91 on a challenging course amply shows the boy has the game needed to become a decent player.”
Adel Zarouni, secretary-general of the Emirates Golf Federation, congratulated the team for winning the net (under-18) title. “Their performance augurs well for the UAE golf. We, at Emirates Golf Federation, will keep trying to create more playing opportunities for our junior players.
“It was a good trip to Tunisia and there was a good camaraderie as players competed in a healthy environment. On behalf of the federation, I would like to thank the Tunisia Golf Federation for hosting the event. They did a wonderful job,” said Zarouni.
- Gay cruises to record-breaking victory at Hilton Head 21/04/2009
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Brian Gay stormed to a record-breaking ten-stroke victory at the Verizon Heritage to win the second PGA TOUR title of his career.
Gay began the day with a three-stroke lead over the field and romped home with a 7-under 64 to set a new tournament record finish of 20-under-par.
“Just another unbelievable day,” gushed Gay, “I got off to a great start with a birdie then the eagle on 2 kind of propelled me forward. I just told myself to keep my head down, keep plugging along. I didn’t watch any boards. I didn’t look at anything, just kept playing, trying to make birdies.”
The previous record was held by Loren Roberts whose four round total of 19-under 265 had stood since his victory in 1996, but Gay eclipsed it with a sumptuous final round blitz.
England’s Luke Donald finished alongside American Briny Baird in second place on 10-under with Lee Janzen and Todd Hamilton a shot further back in fourth place. Spain’s Jose Maria Olazábal closed with a 4-under 68 to finish in a tie for sixth place.
With his victory Gay earned a spot in next year’s Masters Tournament at Augusta – an event that had eluded him for his entire professional career so far. “I’ve had a lot of heartache not getting in that tournament - winning (and) not getting in, and missing by one spot on the money list two times,” he said referring to his victory at the Mayakoba Classic in 2008. “I just figured, who cares? What’s going to happen is going to happen, just go play golf.”
- SHARK PREDICTS BIG FUTURE FOR SINGH 09/04/2009
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GREG Norman singled out Jeev Milkha Singh for praise at the Masters Tournament, predicting the Indian will force his way into his International Team for the Presidents Cup later this year.
The Australian legend played a practice round with the reigning Asian Tour No. 1 at Augusta National earlier this week and came away thoroughly impressed with Singh's game and attitude.
"I was impressed," said Norman, the International Team captain. "I was surprised by how far he hits the golf ball. He's sneaky long which is a big advantage on this golf course obviously. I asked him point-blank how are you playing and he said ‘I'm playing very well.'
"You don't hear too many players come out openly and say I'm playing very well. He's very confident about his game and I'm looking forward to good things from him this week."
Singh, who is hoping to become the first Indian to play in the Presidents Cup which pits the International Team against the United States, is currently lying in 10th place in the Team rankings.
The top-10 players after the PGA Championship in August will earn automatic entry into the team with Norman selecting two more captain's picks.
Despite his hectic schedule this week following an emotional return to Augusta National, Norman also found time to speak to Prayad Marksaeng at the putting green. He remembers the Thai veteran after playing together in the Dubai Desert Classic in 1996 where the Norman labelled Prayad as "world class".
"When I get into a situation like this when I can play with some players who look like being on the team, I might go out and spend some time with them," said Norman on why he asked Singh to play a practice round with him alongside Adam Scott and Tim Clark.
"I've watched Jeev from afar, through TV and reading his scores wherever he plays. He plays a lot of golf, probably more than Vijay Singh, quite honestly, and Vijay plays a lot of golf.
"You have to admire Jeev. He wants to get on the Presidents Cup team and he was very open about that with me. If he keeps doing what he's doing, he's going to be on it with respect to whether he's a captain's choice or if he just plays his way onto the team."
Prayad, playing in his second Masters, is lying in 17th place on the International Team rankings while Chinese Taipei's Lin Wen-tang, also competing at Augusta National this week, is 24th.
A good showing by the Asian Tour trio at The Masters will go a long way in keeping Norman's options open for his team that will face the US in Harding Park Golf Course in San Francisco from October 6 to 11, 2009.
Korea's K.J. Choi, an honorary member of the Asian Tour, is eighth on the rankings.
- “SURREAL TO BE BACK AS CHAMP” SAYS IMMELMAN 09/04/2009
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TREVOR Immelman has revealed that the experience of returning to Augusta as the defending champion has been a strange one.
The South African will attempt to become the first player since Tiger Woods in 2001-2002 to defend the famous Green Jacket but he admits that it took him a while to get used to the idea that he was The Masters champion and returning to the scene of his spectacular victory has been emotional.
"It's been a surreal experience really," he said. "I came here to Augusta National about a month ago and had a little visit. That was the first time I went in there and saw my name up on the locker. You know, just like I said, pretty surreal experience. And going in there this week and meeting some of the past champions has been great fun.
"I don't think I was aware or prepared for what happened (after winning last year's tournament). Obviously it's all good stuff. You know, it's a lot of great issues that you have to deal with.
"But I think it took me a little time to become accustomed to that. But it's been great fun. You know, my family and I really have had a great time, and I've been able to experience and have some great opportunities, and so it's been fantastic.
"You know, it's something that I wouldn't trade for anything. It really has been a great eye-opener, and I think I've learned a lot about myself and about my game. And so it's just been a tremendous year; the greatest year of my career from a standpoint of getting to be able to experience things and learn a lot about myself at the same time."
- Hoey clinches maiden title in Portugal 07/04/2009
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NORTHERN Ireland’s Michael Hoey won his first European Tour title at the expense of current British Masters champion Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano at the Estoril Open de Portugal.
Hoey held his nerve to beat the Spaniard on the third extra hole as he knocked in a six-foot par putt following Fernandez-Castano’s bogey.
Both players twice made par on the 18th in the play-off before they switched to the 17th. The pair made the edge of the green in two but Hoey got down in two to claim the title after Fernandez-Castano missed his par putt.
Hoey began the final round five shots back but shot a best-of-the-day 5-under 66 in tough windy conditions.
“I did not really think about winning going out, but I was lucky - I got all the breaks,” said Hoey, a former British Amateur champion. “It’s a life-changing moment, it’s amazing really. If I can keep this mentality going I can really move forward. It’s not going to sink in yet. It’s a bit of a dream that I will cherish for a long time, and I’d just like to thank everyone who has supported me over the years.”
Fernandez-Castano shot a 67 to also get to 7-under while overnight leader Paul Broadhurst stumbled to a 2-over 73 and drop into a tie for fourth place alongside Welshman Jamie Donaldson and Swede Mikael Lundberg. Italian Francesco Molinari finished alone in third place one shot back from the leaders.
- CASEY OFF THE MARK IN HOUSTON 06/04/2009
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ENGLISHMAN Paul Casey secured his first PGA TOUR title with a play-off victory over JB Holmes at the Houston Open.
Casey was one of six leaders heading into the final round but he managed to pull clear on Sunday and needed only par at the final hole for victory. However, a bogey completed a final round of 72 and took him into sudden-death with J.B. Holmes after both players finished 11-under 277. Holmes, who had battled from three strokes back to make the play-off, found water off the tee at the first added hole leaving Casey to take the title with a bogey.
"It's a little bit like my first win felt in Europe which I can remember very vividly," said Casey. "First win in Europe, first Ryder Cup experience, and now first PGA Tour win.
"Three fairly major events in my life, in my golfing life. So I think I need to give it a couple days to let this one sink in."
- Gary Player to host Worldwide Golf Invitational at Emirates GC 03/04/2009
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GARY Player, one of the true legends of golf, will play a hole in an Invitational tournament in the UAE for the first time.
The Black Knight is a winner of nine Majors and nine Senior Majors in a career that saw him claim his first title back in 1955, in Egypt. Since then he has won 167 official tournaments worldwide, travelling more than 14 million miles, and is universally recognised as golf’s greatest international player.
At Emirates Golf Club on Friday April 24 Player will host The Worldwide Golf 100th Anniversary Invitational presented by ECCO under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Saeed bin Mohammed bin Hasher Al Maktoum.
Player, who was part of the legendary Big 3 with Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer and is one of only five players to have won all four Majors, will also host a brunch at Emirates Golf Club, organised by the South African Business Council, attended by The Ambassador, H.E. Yacoob Abba Omar. Player will then do a clinic on the driving range prior to the 18-hole, shotgun start, Invitational.
Player will play the par-3 seventh hole on the Majlis Course with each of the fourballs competing in the Invitational. Earlier this year the 73-year-old, who is arguably the fittest player in Senior Golf, beat his age on three successive days at the 7,100 yards Hualalai course in Hawaii in a U.S. Champions Tour event, shooting 70-71-71
The charity event will conclude with an Awards Dinner at Emirates Golf Club hosted by Player.
The South African Hall of Famer has amassed numerous awards throughout his 56-year career, captained the International Team in The Presidents Cup in 2003, 2005 and 2007.
“I have nothing but admiration for Sheikh Mohammed and his remarkable vision in creating such a thriving business, tourism and golfing centre in Dubai. I have been a frequent visitor to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Qatar and Oman over the years and I am really looking forward to hosting the Worldwide Golf 100th Anniversary Invitational at the Emirates Golf Club,” said Player.
“It will be an opportunity to renew some old friendships and make some new ones and I hope it will be a day that all who attend will recall as an occasion to remember.”
- European Tour trio secure Masters invites 31/03/2009
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THREE in-form players on The European Tour have earned some of the final invites to The Masters in two weeks due to their impressive rise up the Official World Golf Ranking.
Spain’s Alvaro Quiros, Louis Oosthuizen of South Africa and Thailand’s Prayad Marksaeng will all tee it up for the first time at Augusta Nation in two weeks’ time.
Quiros virtually secured his place with a fine victory at the Commercialbank Qatar Masters while Oosthuizen and Marksaeng both posted fine results to be in with a chance. The South African needed to make the cut at the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill to secure his trip and did so comfortably.
Marksaeng had to post a top-three finish on the Asian Tour’s Black Mountain Masters to be sure of qualifying but was 48th place – ten strokes off the lead – going into the weekend. However, he produced two days of sumptuous golf, including a final round 64, to finish in a tie for second place and be sure of a ticket to Augusta.
- Kjeldsen holds on in Andalucia thriller 30/03/2009
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SOREN Kjeldsen hung on for his first victory of the season and secured a debut outing at The Masters thanks to a thrilling three-shot victory over David Drysdale at the Open de Andalucia.
The Dane went into the final round with a one-stroke lead over the Scot after beating the course record by a stroke with a third round 62. However, by the 16th hole on Sunday the pair were level. Kjeldsen put his approach shot on 16 in the water but fought back by draining an 18-footer for par to stay on terms. He then sank a sublime birdie putt from even further out on the par-3 17th, and when Drysdale couldn’t get up-and-down from a greenside trap Kjeldsen had a two-stroke lead heading up the last.
Dysdale found a bunker off the tee and hit his approach into the water which ended his chances of a comeback. He needed to make a double bogey six to claim second place outright and did so with a solid two-putt from the fringe. Kjeldsen three-putted for bogey for his second win in nine starts on The European Tour. “To be honest, I was very nervous all day. I knew it was going to be a tough day and it was,” admitted the 33-year-old. “But I never lost patience and belief. I felt like I was giving it away after a horrific shot on 16 but I had to grit my teeth and it was great to make that putt there and play 17 the way I did.”
Kjeldsen finished on 14-under with Drysdale three back. Italian Francesco Molinari and England’s Graeme Storm finished in a tie for third place on 10-under par while the Scottish pair of Alastair Forsyth and Andrew Coltart finished fifth and sixth respectively.
- Woods back to winning ways at Bay Hill 30/03/2009
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TIGER Woods secured his first victory since returning from injury with a come-from-behind victory at the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill in Florida.
The World No.1 overcame a five-stroke overnight deficit to beat Sean O’Hair by one stroke with a superb birdie on the last hole.
“It feels good,” said Woods, who shot a 3-under 67. “It feels really good to be back in contention and feel the rush. It’s been a while. I hadn’t been in the mix since the US Open, so it was neat to feel the heat on the back nine again, and get myself into the hunt and into contention.”
Meanwhile O’Hair, who followed rounds of 67, 65 and 71 with a 3-over 73, wasn’t too despondent with the result. “I’m playing great and the swing changes that I’m making are coming around, and obviously I think today just kind of proves that I still don’t quite have it yet - but that doesn’t mean I’m not going in the right direction,” said the 25-year-old. “I think all in all I take nothing but positives from this. Obviously it’s just a little bit disappointing that I couldn’t close it.”
Woods took the lead when O’Hair bogeyed the 16th but then made a bogey of his own on the 17th to tie the lead heading down the last. Woods attacked the pin with his approach and made it to 16 feet and when O’Hair failed with his birdie attempt Woods had the chance to win outright. The stage was set and Woods duly obliged with a superb putt which was met with a wild celebration between himself and caddie Steve Williams.
- Goosen ends PGA TOUR drought in Tampa 27/03/2009
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RETIEF Goosen won his first PGA TOUR since 2005 with a one-stroke victory over Brett Quigley and Charles Howell III at the Transitions Championship in Florida.
Goosen made several crucial par-saving putts down the stretch - including a testing fiver-footer on the 18th - to close out his first American win since the now defunct International tournament in 2005.
"On greens like this, you need to putt well," said the 40-year-old. "You look at stats this week; the guy that putted the best is pretty much the winner. That's what I did this week, I putted pretty well.
I always keep reminding myself, Vijay (Singh) started playing his best golf when he turned 40. So I'm looking forward to the next five years!"
The South African made it tough on the final green by missing a 25 foot birdie putt which ended five feet past the cup. However, Goosen showed a cool head in sinking the resulting par putt. "It was disappointing to hit it that far past," he said. "I felt good with my putting, and there wasn't too much indecision with the one coming back. It was nice to see it go in."
- Monty reaches 500 not out 27/03/2009
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COLIN Montgomerie celebrated his 500th European Tour start at the Open de Andalucia de Golf and was presented with a commemorative cake from his fellow Tour members.
Montomgerie, pictured with Spanish friends Jose Maria Olazábal and Miguel Angel Jimenez, becomes just the 18th player to reach the milestone but admits he still gets a buzz out of entering tournaments.
"I look forward to every event that I play in and start with the feeling ‘this could be a win' or ‘a very good finish' or a career changing episode in one's life," said the 45-year-old. "I do enjoy the competition. I love what this game brings out in me."
Montgomerie, who holds the record for eight Order of Merit titles, was thankful that his health had been in good condition throughout his career. "I am very fortunate to say that I've been healthy for all those years and lucky enough at 45 to still be playing. I hope to get a lot further up the tree than 500 but right now I am very honoured to join the select band of 18 of us who have made it this far.
"There are some records of which I am very proud. For example, I've made 421 cuts out of 499 so far and 182 top ten finishes, which are both European Tour records. I think 182 top tens shows a lot of consistency and a high level of performance and I hope to get that figure up to 200."
- The race for the EGF Order of Merit hots up 27/03/2009
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THE battle for the EGF Order of Merit title is hotting up after two of the main challengers sat out crucial events as the race for the title heads towards its climax.
Khalid Yousuf took advantage of the non-performance of Matthew Turner at the Audi Men's Open at Abu Dhabi Golf Club to move to the top of the EGF Order of Merit.
Yousuf posted rounds of 72 and 75 for a 3-over gross total of 147 to win at Abu Dhabi Golf Club to move above Turner in the rankings with 86 points. Another promising UAE star Ahmed Al Musharrekh matched Yousuf's 147 - the best score by an amateur in the Audi Men's Open - to jump to fifth position with a tally of 51 points, just 8.5 points behind Dino Varkey of Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club and 6.5 points of Joel Neale, who plays off an impressive plus-1 handicap.
Former Order of Merit champion Vikram Judge posted a 156 to slip to seventh place with 47.5 points.
However, Turner returned to action at the Ras Al Khaimah Men's Open at Al Hamra Golf Club to reclaim his place at the top of the Order of Merit as he took his turn to take advantage of his competitor's absence with rounds of 73 and 71 for a six-shot victory over Joel Neal.
Yousuf could not make it to the RAK Men's Open after a busy schedule in the 29th Arab Golf Championships where he played a key role in guiding the UAE national team to a creditable second-place finish.
With Neale making solid gains after a second place finish in the RAK Men's Open, the race for the Order of Merit title has picked up steam with at least three players in contention for claiming the honours.
Neale, also of Emirates Golf Club, has tallied 81.5 points after the RAK Open, the fifth event on the EGF Order of Merit schedule. Snapping at his heels is seasoned Vikram Judge who has jumped to fourth place from seventh with 67.5 points after a fourth-place finish in Ras Al Khaimah.
Ahmed Al Musharrekh was also absent from Ras Al Khaimah due to his performances alongside Yousuf in the Arab Golf Championships. He remains on 51 points but dropped down to seventh place.
With just two events remaining at Al Ghazal Golf Club in Abu Dhabi and The Montgomerie, Dubai, the race for the EGF Order of Merit title looks like it will go to the wire.
Order of Merit leaders after the RAK Men's Open:
1. Matthew Turner (EGC) 95
2. Khalid Yousuf (EGC) 86
3. Joel Neale (EGC) 81.5
4. Vikram Judge (DCGYC) 67.5
5. Paul King (DCGYC) 59.8
6. Dino Varkey (DCGYC) 59.5
7. Ahmed Al Musharrekh (SGSC) 51
8. Steve Kelly (EGC) 49
9. Alex Charawani (ADGC) 46.25
10. Robert Watts (EGC) 45
- Mickelson downs Watney in Doral 16/03/2009
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PHIL Mickelson won his first World Golf Championships title with a one-stroke victory over compatriot Nick Watney at the CA-Championship at Doral.
Mickelson closed out with seven straight pars for a 3-under 69 and a 19-under total to take him to No.2 in the Official World Golf Ranking and closer to Tiger Woods in points than he has ever been before.
“I fought hard all day and wasn’t really able to pay attention to some of the great shots that Nick hit because I was so worried about keeping my energy level high and steady throughout the round,” said Mickelson who suffered from exhaustion and dehydration at various stages on Saturday and Sunday.
“I haven’t eaten much in three days and I fought hard. I knew I was playing some of my best golf coming in here and I was playing well so I’m very excited to have finished it off.”
Watney, who won the Buick Invitational earlier in the season, almost forced a play-off on the 18th but his 30-foot birdie putt from the fringe pulled up inches short of the cup. “I'll get over this,” he said. “It’s a positive week. I played really well. Beat 78 of the best players in the world. Beat Tiger, which is always good. I’m very pleased with the way I’m playing.”
Jim Furyk closed with a 67 for third place on 16-under with Jeev Milka Singh alone in fourth place on 14-under.
- Yang hangs on to win maiden PGA TOUR title 09/03/2009
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SOUTH Korean Y.E. Yang got down in two from 50 feet on the final green at The Honda Classic to beat John Rollins by a stroke and clinch his first title on the PGA TOUR.
A year earlier Yang finished last over the same layout and played the final round on his own – completing the 18 holes in just under two hours. This year he was last to finish.
Starting the day with a one-shot lead Yang began in confident fashion with four birdies and a solitary bogey on the outward nine. “I told myself that in order for me to win today, I needed to stay patient and know how to wait,” said Yang. “I think my plan worked today, because I tried to stay as patient as I could.”
Yang made another birdie on the 12th but saw his lead slip when he bogeyed holes 15 and 17. Rollins had just birdied the par-5 18th ahead of Yang while Yang missed a par putt after blasting out of a bunker on the 17th. Standing on the 18th tee Yang had a one-shot lead again but he made it tough for himself after his third shot left him needing to get down in two from 50 feet for victory. He set the putt off and it gently arrived 12 inches from the cup and he duly tapped in for par and a 2-under 68. “This win is the biggest win of my career,” said Yang who won the 2006 HSBC Champions in Shanghai. “Ever since I won the HSBC Champions, there were a lot of expectations, from people around me, and even on myself that I had. For the past two years, it was actually kind of frustrating for me.”
Rollins paid tribute to Yang who forced him to settle for his second runner-up finish of the season so far. “From 50 feet, it’s not easy to do that to win your first golf tournament,” said the America. “I have no complaints, I did all I can do. Shot 3-under on championship Sunday and came up short - my hat's off to him.”
- Bahrain dominate the 29th Arab Golf Championship 06/03/2009
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BAHRAIN put the disappointment of a runner-up finish at last year’s Arab Golf Championship behind them with a dominating display to win their 13th Championship at Al Hamra Golf Club yesterday
The Bahrainis completed a wire-to-wire victory in the 29th Arab Golf Championship thanks to rounds of 233, 235, 230 and 241 for a 939 total and a 17-stroke win over the UEA team.
The team of Abdulla Saleh, Naser Yacob and Sultan Sultan combined superbly well over the four days to beat the host nation into second place. Egypt finished third, two shots behind the UAE while last year’s winner Lebanon finished fourth after being beaten to a podium place by a countback by the Egyptians.
- Sergio Garcia joins World Class Invitational lineup 17/12/2009
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SERGIO GARCIA is the latest big name to join the all-star cast at The Invitational hosted by Abdullah Al Naboodah at Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club on January 25th. The popular Spaniard, currently ranked 11th in the World, makes his debut in the most prestigious Invitational Pro-Am in the region.
Garcia, who finished 10th in The Race to Dubai, joins a host of leading European Tour players in The Invitational, including Europe’s Golfer of the Year, Lee Westwood. The World No.4 returns to Dubai on the back of one of the most consistent seasons of his career. He capped a stunning victory in the Dubai World Championship in November, by adding The Race to Dubai title with two wins and 11 additional top-ten finishes to collect €2,750,000 and take his season’s earnings to a record €4,237,762.
He was rightfully voted The European Tour’s Golfer of The Year for the third time in his career, having ended Colin Montgomerie’s seven-year reign at head of European Golf by winning the Order of Merit in 2000 after finishing runner-up in 1999 and third in 1997 and 1998.
Westwood and Garcia are joined in the field by fellow Ryder Cup star Graeme McDowell who recently shot back into the World top 50 with a superb second place finish at the Chevron World Challenge in California. Ross Fisher, currently ranked 20th in the world and who finished fourth in The Race to Dubai is another leading player to confirm his place in The Invitational on January 25.
Volvo World Match Play Champion, Fisher, who is sponsored by the Al Naboodah Group, put in a near-tournament winning performance at the Nedbank Golf Challenge in South Africa, finishing in a share of third place.
Another player bringing his best form to The Invitational is host Abdullah Al Naboodah himself. Abdullah teamed up with UK radio presenter DJ Spoony, Vincent Tshabalala and Thomas Aiken to win the fourball alliance competition at the Gary Player Invitational at The Links at Fancourt, South Africa, in November.
Other players confirmed to play at the Creek on January 25 include Rory McIlroy, Jeev Milkha Singh, Darren Clarke, Simon Dyson, Johan Edfors, Charl Schwartzel and Richard Green. In total, 48 Professionals and 48 amateurs will combine in a betterball strokeplay competition in teams of two – one Pro and one amateur – with the Pros playing for a charity prize fund of AED500,000.
Al Naboodah Director of Golf, James Bowring, commented: “It’s great that we’ve got so many leading players competing who are right on the top of their game. The sponsors and the spectators are going to be treated to a wonderful day of world-class golf played in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. It’s going to be a special day for them to be able to play a part in enjoying this unique tournament.”
For more information on The Invitational hosted by Abdullah Al Naboodah at Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club on January 25, please visit: www.alnaboodahinvitational.com
- Italy edge out Ireland and Sweden for World Cup glory 30/11/2009
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ITALIAN brothers Francesco and Edoardo Molinari carded a final round 4-under-par 68 to win the Omega Mission Hills World Cup by one stroke from Sweden and Ireland.
Francesco, the younger of the two, holed three consecutive birdies on the back nine which lifted them into contention and it was left to Edoardo to sink the winning putt on the final green for a 29-under-par total.
Ireland’s Graeme McDowell and Rory McIlroy had started strongly and at one point held a three-shot lead during the front nine, but they failed to push on and they fell short with a final round of 2-under-par 70. Defending champions Sweden, again represented by Henrik Stenson and Robert Karlsson, narrowly missed out on glory with a 3-under-par 69 to finish alongside Ireland in second place.
“It’s been a tough day and we have been playing against some of the best golfers in the world. It was really tough until the last hole - but it feels even better when it is like that,” said Francesco. “It’s really great for Italy. I think we deserved it as we attacked from the first day with every putt and every shot and we tried to make as many birdies as possible.”
England finished fourth on 26-under-par but their impressive 8-under-par 64 came just too late for Ian Poulter and Ross Fisher while Hiroyuki Fujita and Ryuji Imada claimed fifth for Japan a further four shots back after a 69.
- UAE hosting 29th Arab Championship 02/03/2009
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AL Hamra Golf Club in Ras Al Khaimah will host the 29th Arab Golf Championship this week as 16 Arab countries battle for honours around the first Links course in the region.
Host nation the UAE will be spearheaded by Khalid Yousuf who recently competed in the Dubai Desert Classic and he will be joined by the Musharrekh brothers Ahmed and Abdullah and the experienced Ismail Sharif.
Last year in Australia a Yousuf-led UAE team finished at the top of the pile of all the Arabian teams contesting in the Eisenhower Trophy and the team are confident ahead of this year’s Arab Championship.
“We have the talent to win the championship,” said Sharif, a seven-time UAE National Champion. “All we need is to stay focussed on the job in hand. It won’t be easy since the competition is going to be very tough, but we have to keep faith in our abilities.”
Secratery General of the Emirates Golf Federation Adel Zarouni said: “We are delighted to host the Arab Golf Championship and he hope all the players will relish the experience of playing on the challenging layout of the par-72 Championship Golf Course at Al Hamra.
This Championship will showcase to the Arab world the giant strides that have been made in the UAE with our golfing infrastructures of international standards. We will try and ensure all the players and their delegations have a comfortable stay in the UAE and they return home with good memories of the Championship.”
Lebanon took home the title last year as they completed a wire-to-wire victory at Dirab Golf Course in Riyadh last year.
Teams lining up will be:
Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia and the UAE.
- Neale retains EGF Order of Merit crown 26/05/2009
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JOEL Neale retained the Emirates Golf Federation’s Order of Merit title after the talented youngster posted a strong finish in the BMW Men’s Open held at The Montgomerie Dubai.
Neale, who plays off a plus one handicap, carded solid rounds of 73 and 70 to finish tied second on a gross total of 143, just one shot behind the winner Pontes Fredriksson in the seventh and the final round of the Gulf News-sponsored Order of Merit.
With this creditable second-place finish the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club star took his points tally to 122.25 which was good enough to beat his nearest challenger Matthew Turner of Emirates Golf Club by 5.25 points. Khalid Yousuf, who led the Order of Merit after the penultimate round – the NBAD Men’s Open – had to settle for third place on 113 points.
Khalid had a good chance of winning the prestigious Order of Merit, but couldn’t feature in the final event because of the GCC Championship in Kuwait where he played a key role in guiding the UAE team to a fantastic second-place finish.
In his absence it was left to Neale and Turner to battle it out for the championship title. With just three points separating the two going into the final round, both produced some solid golf in the final round to provide a fitting climax to the Order of Merit race.
Neale held on to his slender lead, finishing just one point ahead of Turner, who settled for tied fourth on a gross144. , In the end, it was a strange coincidence that Neale, Turner and Yousuf finished the Order of Merit race in the same order as they did last year.
The Musharrekh brothers – Ahmed and Abdulla – were in with a chance to sneak into the top ten, but had to skip the final event as they joined Khalid Yousuf in the UAE team for the GCC Championship.
Saeed Albudoor, general manager of the Emirates Golf Federation, thanked the players, the sponsors and the clubs for making the Order of Merit a great success. “All the seven events produced some good scores and that gives an indication of the rising standards of the game in the UAE,” he said. “There is no dearth of talent in the country and it showed in the performance of the players during the season. We, at the Emirates Golf Federation, are committed to creating more playing opportunities for golfers, both national and expatriates, to hone their skills.
“We are also working on new initiatives to make the Order of Merit events even more appealing to the players."
Neale is pictured with Saeed Al Budoor, General Manager of the Emirates Golf Federation.
- CABRERA WINS MASTERS 14/04/2009
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ANGEL Cabrera overcame the odds with a dramatic victory in one of the most exciting Masters Tournaments in recent memory at Augusta National.
Cabrera beat Chad Campbell and Kenny Perry in three-man sudden-death play-off to become the lowest-ranked player ever to win the famous Green Jacket, having entered the tournament at No. 69 in the world. But the Argentine, who moved up to No. 18 after his second Major victory, said that he felt more ready to deal with the whirlwind of attention this time around than he was for his 2007 U.S. Open win.
"I think the U.S. Open got me by surprise," said Cabrera. "This win, I'm more prepared. I am more aware of where things happen."
Perry looked to be heading for his first Major triumph before bogeys on the 17th and 18th in regulation meant a three-way play-off with Campbell and Cabrera with all three tied at 12-under 276.
Cabrera's chance looked to be gone when he found the trees at the first extra hole and ricocheted his next shot against another Georgia Pine. But a superb recovery saw him play a wedge to within seven feet and then sink a nerve-jangling putt to save par. Campbell fell out of contention with a bogey, leaving the two older players to battle it out and when Perry failed to get up and down at the second extra hole the victory was Cabrera's.
"This is a great moment, the dream of any golfer to win the Masters," said Cabrera. "I'm so emotional I can barely talk."
Perry, who also lost a play-off against Mark Brooks for the 1996 US PGA Championship, and would have become, at 48, the oldest player ever to win The Masters, showed great dignity in defeat.
"I've got two to think about now," he said. "But this time it wasn't like I hit lousy shots - and I had a putt to win.
"That putt on 18 I've seen Tiger make it, I've seen so many people make it. I knew exactly what it was and that was probably the most disappointing putt of the day because I hit it too easy.
"You've got to give that putt a run. I mean, how many chances do you have to win The Masters?
"I was proud of how I played, I really was. I played great and I just kept chugging along.
"If this is the worst thing that happens to me, I can live with it. Great players get it done and Angel got it done.
"This is his second Major he's won. I've blown two, but that's the only two I've had chances of winning."
- Ogilvy cruises to second WGC-Accenture Match Play title 02/03/2009
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AUSTRALIAN Geoff Ogilvy eased to a 4&3 victory over Paul Casey in the final of the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship in Tuscon, Arizona.
Ogilvy started with a birdie to go 1up and never let Casey get near him as the Englishman struggled to take his early birdie opportunities. Ogilvy was 3up after 18 holes and continued his domination into the afternoon session and closed the win a solid putt for victory on the 33rd hole.
“The whole weekend I played fantastic,” said Ogilvy, who beat Rory McIlroy and last year’s runner-up Stewart Cink to set up the match with Casey. “I played two unbelievable players yesterday, Rory is going to be one of the best players in the world and Stewart is very hard to beat in this tournament, always up there, and then Paul today, one of the best players in the world, a really great competitor head-to-head. I’ve been on the wrong end in this final and it’s not a very nice feeling, but it’s a very satisfying week to play well, I’m really happy with this.”
Ogilvy became the second player to win the WGC-Accenture multiple times after his first win in 2006 and he was a beaten finalist a year later against Henrik Stenson.
Casey was on the hunt for his first PGA TOUR victory but the Australian was too hot to handle in the 36-hole final. “I was out of the blocks fast this afternoon and made three birdies over the first eight holes and still lost two holes, so he played great golf,” said Casey. “I threw a lot at him but he didn't flinch. It was very impressive. I have no excuses, he just played excellent golf all day.”
Ogilvy jumps to the top of The Race to Dubai standings after two European Tour appearances while Casey occupies second place.
In the third place match England's Ross Fisher lost out to last year's winner Cink 1up.
Casey’s route to the final
Paul Casey bt Aaron Baddeley (Aus) 1 up
Paul Casey bt Mathew Goggin (Aus) 6&4
Paul Casey bt Peter Hanson (Swe) 3&2
Paul Casey bt Sean O'Hair (US) 4&3
Paul Casey bt Ross Fisher (Eng) 2&1
Ogilvy’s route to the final
Geoff Ogilvy bt Kevin Sutherland (US) at 19th
Geoff Ogilvy bt Shingo Katayama (Jpn) at 19th
Geoff Ogilvy bt Camilo Villegas (Col) 2&1
Geoff Ogilvy bt Rory McIlroy (NI) 2&1
Geoff Ogilvy bt Stewart Cink (US) 4&2
- Jaidee in control at Indonesia Open 02/03/2009
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THAILAND’S Thongchai Jaidee claimed his third European Tour victory with an impressive two-stroke victory at the Enjoy Jakarta Indonesia Open. Jaidee held a one-shot lead heading into the final day and went out in 4-under 33 to increase his lead to four but a bogey on the 14th saw his lead cut by Steve Webster to just one. However, Jaidee made a birdie on the 16th to ease the pressure and he carded a 69 for a two-shot win over Webster, Simon Dyson and Alexander Noren.
“My driving, putting and iron game were all good today. I felt very confident out there which helped me a lot,” said Jaidee. “I knew the pin positions and I was putting well. I missed the green but chipped in on the fifth hole, which was great and on the seventh I was off the green on the left side but I knocked it in from 12 feet. Those were key holes for me.
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