Club Life March 2017 by Dubai Golf

Editor: Jacqui Barry barrydxb@eim.ae

17 MARCH 20

ISSUE 66

Editorial

hat an excellent Omega Dubai Desert Classic week we had last month which culminated in an exciting final day, resulting in Sergio Garcia becoming the 2017 Champion. The course set up was fantastic, thanks to Craig, Luke and the entire crew at Golf Course Maintenance. There were many past and life members around for the event and it was great to be able to catch up with everyone

Congratulations to ‘golf in DUBAi’ for a great wonderful this year; the line-up of players was top notch but unfortunately, Rory McIlroy withdrew prior to the event due to injury and Tiger Woods managed only one round (as well as the Pro-Am) before retiring with a back spasm. However, this did not detract from the tournament as we still had a host of top players competing with the likes of Henrik Stenson, Sergio Garcia, Danny Willett and Lee Westwood who did not disappoint. Aside from the Professionals, congratulations must go to our home-grown Dubai talent, Rayhan Thomas who made the cut and did remarkably well considering he is still only 17 years of age so I think we will see a lot more of this his young man in the future. Well done Rayhan.

EMIRATES GOLF CLUB SENIOR MANAGEMENT

Christopher May

Chief Executive Officer cmay@dubaigolf.com

Craig Haldane

Barney Coleman

Club Manager bcoleman@dubaigolf.com

Andy Meech

Director - Golf Course Maintenance chaldane@dubaigolf.com

Head of Sport and Leisure ameech@dubaigolf.com

Rhys James

Chef Nicholas Cuomo

Now, back to our own golfing scene at Emirates Golf Club where the season is in full swing. March 10th sees the 25th Anniversary of the Indian Invitational Tournament. It has always been a highlight on the golfing calendar and remains so to this day. Congratulations on your quarter of a century and I’m sure that this year’s event will be as good as, if not better, than all the others. March also sees Club Captain’s Day on 17th and Lady Captain’s Day on 27th (which will be an afternoon shotgun followed by a dinner on the Club terrace. It could be a rather lively and loud evening so be careful if you have any notions of a romantic evening in Le Classique!!).

Golf Services Manager rjames@dubaigolf.com

Executive Chef ncuomo@dubaigolf.com

We have just had the Ladies’ Club Championship which was won with some fantastic scoring by 14-year old Deborah Chan with scores of 75 (Faldo) and 76 (Majlis). She was closely followed by her good friend Natalii Gupta with scores of 81 on the Faldo and a level par 72 on the Majlis. It’s fantastic to have some talented junior girls making such huge strides on the golfing scene and long may it continue. Congratulations to you both. We have had a number of weeks of strange weather for this time of the year. Where did the sunshine go? We have had rain, fog, sandstorms and cold (relatively!), even snow in Ras Al Khaimah. Enough of that now…we want our usual blue skies and sunshine!. I think that is about to start!. Whatever the weather anyway, it is still a pleasure to be here, to be able to play our two superb courses in prime condition…and, at the end of the day, it’s a welcome change to have such unpredictable weather in Dubai.

Ganesh Mangathil

Dubai Golf Publishing Manager gmangathil@dubaigolf.com

Steen Simon

Food & Beverage Manager ssimon@dubaigolf.com

Adele Cowgill

Head of Sales and Marketing acowgill@dubaigolf.com

Saeed Ahamed

Financial Controller mahamed@dubaigolf.com

Enjoy your golf ~ enjoy also the Members’ Annual Party on 14th March as well as all the many social events taking place in the coming weeks.

Jacqui

Stephen Deane

Head Academy Professional sdeane@dubaigolf.com

CONDOLENCES Sadly, one of our former members, Else Foyer, passed away on Tueday 14th February at her home in USA after being ill for some time. Else was very popular at the Club; she was a very warm, gentle and friendly lady who made many friends during her six years in Dubai. Our sincere condolences go to her husband Tom, their two sons and their extended family.

Haridas Palliyalil

Resident Engineer hpalliyalil@dubaigolf.com

EGC Key Telephone Numbers Main Switchboard Members Golf Reservations Membership Recreation Accounts SensAsia Urban Spa

04 04 04 04 04 04

417 417 417 417 417 417

9999 9800 9801 9850 9875 9820

Follow Emirates Golf Club on Facebook for the latest news, views and special offers. We already have over 36,952 likes. Follow us on Twitter @emiratesgc and Instagram @emiratesgc

Dear Friends,

MEN’S COMPETITION RESULTS

Sponsored By

Monday 13th February 2017

SHIBA KHAN WINS FEBRUARY MONTHLY MEDAL

ongratulations to Shiba Khan, the overall winner of the Ladies’ February Medal sponsored by Sofitel. Shiba’s score of 71 net saw her win Bronze Division and claim the overall prize with a better back 9 score, ahead of Antonia Ludvigson. Antonia won Silver B Division with her score of 71 net in challenging weather conditions. A shot behind was the runner-up in this division, Sue Hopwood, with a solid score of 72 net. In Silver A Division there were two ladies tied on level par net 72. However, Ingrid Lind just pipped Lady Captain Maura Duggan to the prize with a better back 9 score! The best gross score on the day was carded by Veronique Rossett with a fantastic 80 on a difficult day for scoring. Also in the prizes as the lucky winner of our Monthly Medal draw was Viv Caley. Congratulations to all prize winners who will be able to enjoy some fantastic hospitality, courtesy of our Medal sponsors Sofitel, Dubai Jumeirah Beach.

Eerligh took Silver A Division scoring a net 72 with Antonia Ludvigson and Shiba Khan taking honours in their respective Silver B and Bronze Divisions.

in’s Lady Capta Message

hat a wonderful and eventful Omega Dubai Desert Classic it was! I’m sure you all enjoyed the tournament and what a popular winner Sergio Garcia was. Here’s hoping he can follow in Danny Willett’s footsteps and return next year with his own green jacket and the Master’s Trophy!

The next Major played on 20th February was the Camel Trophy which is a very popular stableford tournament on our golfing calendar which produced some very high scores with Thea Hendrickx triumphing over the field with an outstanding 40 points. The ladies’ section played host to Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Abu Dhabi City Golf Club and Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club on 21st February in an Inter-Club competition. On a wet and cold morning Emirates Golf Club ladies played great team golf and, after a nerve wracking wait, as we had scored the same points as Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, it was decided by the 9th team score of each team. Our ladies won by the narrowest of margins by one stableford point! Special mention to Selma Kehoe, our top scorer, with 40 points. Thanks to all the ladies who have played in ICC matches. As we head into the final match scheduled for 15th March at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club all four teams have the opportunity to win the place in the final to be held at Abu Dhabi Golf Club.

Our Ladies’ Club Championship was strongly contested with Deborah Chang posting two very consistent rounds of 75 on the Faldo and 76 on the Majlis to narrowly hold off the challenge of Natalii Gupta by a two stroke victory. Natalii followed her opening round of 81 on the Faldo with a superb 72 on the Majlis. In third place Monica Palao posted a total score of 162 scoring 81 on both the Faldo and the Majlis courses. Congratulations to everyone who competed and especially to all the winners. Enjoy your Golf! Maura Duggan Lady Captain 2016-2017

SILVER A DIVISION (Handicaps 0 – 14) Winner: Runner-up: Best Gross :

Ingrid Lind Maura Duggan

72 net 72 net

Veronique Rossett 80 gross

SILVER B DIVISION (Handicaps15–23) Winner:

Antonia Ludvigson 71 net

Runner-up:

Sue Hopwood

72 net

BRONZE DIVISION (Handicaps 24–42) Winner:

Shiba Khan

Raffle Winner: Viv Caley

71 net

CAMEL TROPHY 20th February 2017

Competition Results

Overall Winner:

Thea Hendrickx

40 points

SILVER DIVISION (Handicaps 0-18) Winner:

Hyun Kyung Bae

37 points

Runner-up:

Veronica Elias

36 points

BRONZE DIVISION (Handicaps 19â&#x20AC;&#x201C;42) Winner:

Swati Singh

39 points

Runner-up:

Shiba Khan

38 points

LADIES CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP 26th & 27th February 2017 2017 Club Champion Deborah Chang Runner Up Natalii Gupta Third Monica Palao Net Over 36 Holes Winner Silver Division: Viv Caley Winner Bronze Division: Maureen platt Day 1 Best Net Yana Jamieson Best Gross Maria Victoria Arias Day 2 Best Net Lynne Dickinson Best Gross Veronica Elias Weekday Members Category Overall Best Net: Antonia Ludvigson Overall Best Gross: Cathy Lajotte

Gross 75 + 76 = 151 Gross 81 + 72 = 153 Gross 81 + 81 = 162 Net 71 + 72 = 143 Net 72 + 73 = 145 Net 68 Gross 82 Net 72 Gross 81 Net 78 + 72 = 150 Gross 76 + 91 = 167

JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES DAY

2017 Club Champion Deborah Chang

n 30th January during the closure of the Majlis and Faldo courses, 28 ladies travelled out to Jumeirah Golf Estates to play a competition on the magnificent Earth course. With perfect golfing weather the ladies thoroughly enjoyed themselves playing the challenging Earth course. Thanks to Mitsuko Emerson for co-ordinating with F&B to arrange a delicious lunch in The Flame Tree restaurant where the prizegiving took place.

Congratulations to overall winner Martha Wong who beat Carmel King on a countback with Kiyono Taniuchi coming third. The front nine prize was won by Sabine Choudry and the back nine prize was won by Rekha Bandopadhyay. Thanks to Viv Caley for sponsoring on-course prizes, which were won by Antonia Ludvigson, Sabine Choudry, Swati Singh and Viv Caley. The raffle prize, sponsored by Mitsuko, was won by Caroline Grainger.

STAYCATION AT RAK

Najla

WHAT’S ON IN MARCH? Golf CalendaR Friday 3rd March

Men’s Stableford: Full golfing members

Saturday 4th March

Legacy Prime Pro-Am Cup: Full golfing members

Monday 6th March

Ladies’ competition at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club 08.30 shotgun

Friday 10th March

25th Indian Invitational Golf Day (Shamble)

Saturday 11th March

Ladies Amateur Open: (Strokeplay)

Monday 13th March

Sofitel Ladies’ Monthly Medal (Strokeplay)

Monday 20th March

Ladies’ Nations Cup (Betterball Stableford)

Friday 24th March

Junior Club Championship (Strokeplay): Full golfing members

Monday 27th March

Lady Captain’s Day 13.00 shotgun

Clu b News

ady Captain Maura Duggan organised a Ladies’ Staycation to Al Hamra Golf Club in Ras Al Khaimah from 8th - 11th February. She was assisted by Rhys who took charge of booking the hotel and the golf games ensuring the best available rates. The ladies stayed at the Al Hamra Hilton Hotel for two nights. Two golf games were arranged on the Wednesday and Thursday afternoons at the Al Hamra Golf Club! Lots of nice prizes were presented to the winners on both days during happy hour which turned out to be extra happy for the lucky winners. Also a dinner was organised on each evening with one at the Pesto Restaurant (Al Hamra GC) and the Lexington Grill at The Waldorf Hotel. The trip was very much enjoyed by the ladies who not only got to go on a short break, but also mingled and played with ladies who they usually don’t play with!

Junior Link

DUBAI GOLF DEVELOPMENT PROFESSIONAL JONATHAN CRADDOCK EXPLAINS HOW TO GAIN YARDAGE & CONSISTENCY WITH

En h

n previous articles I have explained how centeredness of strike and optimising your ball flight would give you extra yards. My approach to coaching is a holistic one’ being a Level II Trackman professional and TPI & CHEK Level II certified in golf mechanics, each case I am presented with is carefully assessed from result/ball flight to body mechanics. In almost all cases the root cause is a physical aspect of the body creating inefficient swing mechanics. When Professionals talk about this, or perhaps you have visited a Personal Trainer in the past, it is often the case that a big change will have to be made that will take a long time. Many of you might not have the time or will to make those changes. Getting ready to practise or to play is something that is often overlooked but perhaps it is one of the biggest reasons for slow or indeed a stunt in development. Let’s take an average day of an office worker who sits for breakfast, drives to work, sits all day at work and then decides to play golf or to practise. For daily routines such as this, good fundamental postural maintenance can have a massive positive effect on the golf swing. If we focus on the positive benefits of daily self maintenance with Triggerpoint’s methodologies this will enable better movement through biomechanical, physiological and psychological enhancements by means of Myofascial Compression Techniques.

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Focus on and put 60% com physical l Hcp 8)

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The diagram pictured left shows many of the body types I encounter. As a golf coach the first thing I try to achieve with my students is good posture. If postural alignment is out then working around the problems can be difficult for the student and in some cases painful. Distance and efficiency are certainly harder to achieve. The best advice is to prepare your body for your day ahead and it will have a knockon effect for all that follows. This can be achieved by sing the TP full body kit and focussing on 14 releases every morning to prepare your body for the day. The releases take 20 minutes from which you will feel like a new person; this in turn should allow you to think more about the activities during the day, how you walk and how you sit. This way, by the time you visit the golf course, you will be able to focus on excelling instead of tackling a postural issue.

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Assessment and correct FMS skill before creating th (Par 3 Hc

INTR Games and FMS d (Hcp Play Par 3 from forward tees

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EXCEL Achieving goals set with performance team. (Hcp 0-9) Ages 14+ 18 Holes: Course length 6500 yards

Junior Link

The Dubai Golf Junior Vision

he UAE JDP at Dubai Golf is unparalleled for its developmental structure; the development stages created by Dubai Golf are now being used at many facilities and within other programmes. By sharing our expertise and experience we have been able to develop the UAE JDP Development Pyramid to set a levelling precedent across the region. This allows all children from varied programmes to know what level they are working at and, most importantly, what they need to do to grow to the next stage. Check out the pyramid to see what yardage on the course your child should be playing, what scores they should be shooting and how they might develop to the next level.

TRAIN TO EXCEL Customised programmes for the individual, focusing on the optimisation of performance. Physical literacy achieved and tested. (Hcp 10-20 Par 3 Hcp 0) Ages 11â&#x20AC;&#x201C;14 9 Holes: Course length 2750 yards

Our in-school initiative is in full flow with Dubai Golf linking with 10 nearby schools. Last week we worked with the Swiss International Scientific School Dubai. We conducted Tee It Up Sessions during their sports day and also began our in-school curriculum Tee It Up programme which focusses on teaching the teachers to activate the game within school PE timings. If you would like us to visit your school please email jcraddock@dubaigolf.com.

TRAIN TO COMPETE n harnessing various skills and supporting aspects tting them into practice in competitive settings. mpete, 20% training and 20% practice, building literacy and mental capabilities. (Hcp 21-36 Par 3 Ages 9 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 11 9 holes: Course length 2250 yards

LEARN TO COMPETE eracy assessments, SSS training and increased participation in oping technical abilities and understanding course management holes of golf on the full course from shortened tees. (Hcp 36+ Par Par 3: Course length 1000 yards: 9 holes 1500 yards

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TRAIN TO PLAY ntinued FMS training, progressing to functional Playing on par 3 from developmental length tees. (Par 3 Hcp 18): Course length 800 yards

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LEARN TO PLAY development for physical literacy. Creating the athlete working on life skills he golfer. Playing on the par 3 courses from shortened tees, cp 23): Course length 600 yards. School Award Eagle

RODUCTION TO THE FUNdamentals of golf. 6+ development, emphasis on inclusive participation and FUN. and complete around): Course length 400 yards. School Awards Par & Birdie

Tee It Up activation during school Sports Day with Professionals, Jonathan Craddock, Jack Wood & Michael Kinloch

RODUCTION TO THE FUNdamentals of golf. 6ng plastic light weight golf clubs limiting hindered skill development and increasing speed potential.

Tee It Up Teacher Training by Professional Jonathan Craddock

DISCOVER THE GAME s Programme conducted by Tee It Up activitors. Other ool taster sessions from guiding club partnerships.

NITED ARAB EMIRATES JDP GUIDING COALITION

The Mena Mini Tour is underway with four remaining events Event 2: Al Ain: Date to be confirmed Event 3: Emirates Golf Club: 30th March Event 4: Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club: 27th April Grand Finale: Emirates Golf Club: 13th May To enrol please contact Eacademy@dubaigolf.com.

PARTICIPATING UAE GOLF CLUBS

ubs with no key use the above UAE JDP developmental pyramid

J D P

E q u i v a l e n t

= =

J D P E q u i v a l e n t

= = =

J D P E q u i v a l e n t

Dubai Golf offers complimentary lessons to all UAE Nationals which is a great opportunity to experience the game or to develop existing skills. To join or for more information please contact Eacademy@dubaigolf.com.

Junior Link

WELCOME BACK TO FORMER EMIRATES GOLF CLUB JUNIOR,

DANIEL HENDRY

ello everyone! It’s great to be back at the club for a few weeks at the time of writing, for some practice before I get my season underway. It has been a long time coming; however, last month I decided to turn professional and finally follow my dreams of playing golf for a living. It is everything I have always wanted to do since I was a little boy and so to make that decision was a big moment for me in my life. I graduated college in May 2016 from the University of North Carolina in Charlotte where I spent four years studying and honing my game as a result of a golf scholarship. It was a fantastic experience and being so far from home definitely helped me grow as a person as well as helping me understand what a full time career in golf can be like with so many aspects such as travel and nutrition along with actually playing. I graduated with honours with a BS. in Geography. Luckily I was able to keep on top of my workload and perform well in the classroom in order to keep Mum and Dad happy which can be tricky due to our gruelling practice and travel schedules. I did encounter some difficulties with injuries in the last few years that really held me back; joint pain and stiffness really hampered me for around 18 months to the extent that, at times, I couldn’t walk due to intense pain. It was only upon returning back to UK the summer before my senior

SPOTLIGHT ON.....

year when we discovered I had an arthritic condition which had been slowly causing me grief. I have heard Phil Mickelson has a similar condition and has had for a while now. My doctor recommended me the same medication which made an instant difference and within a few weeks I was back to fighting fitness! I just have to make sure I stay on top of it and everything feels great and normal! I played the summer of 2016 as an amateur in a number of big events back in UK, ending up with four top 20 finishes and two top 10s. It was a good run of events for me, which I took confidence from heading into some MENA tour events over here in September. I played in three and had three top 15 finishes at Al Badia, the Els Club and at Yas Links. These results earned me a full exemption for this season and I could keep it if I turned Pro. It was an easy decision to make as I have a guaranteed set of events I can play! I also participated at Asian Tour Q school in Thailand in early January; I missed out on getting to the final stage by three shots but I had played well, shooting -3 for four

With Stephe n

When we first came to Dubai I started playing golf at The Montgomerie with Michael Jamieson and Rhys Beecher. I received an award there for the most improved golfer for 20092010. I won a glass trophy and a junior golf kit. In the next two years, I followed up by being runner-up in the par 3 series. This is the spark that ignited my passion for the game.

It has been fantastic to be back here at Emirates Golf Club for a few weeks, seeing so many friendly and familiar faces and catching up with old friends. I hope everyone is doing well and I look forward to seeing everyone whenever that may be! I know my parents also send their best wishes and will be visiting soon I am sure!

ADITYA KUSHALAPA

My name is Aditya Kushalapa and I am a 14 year old studying at Dubai English Speaking College in Year 10. I was born in Sydney, Australia and my family come from India. I started playing golf when I was five years old, but I have been around the game ever since I can remember, as I was born into a family of golfers.

rounds but it just wasn’t quite good enough to get me through. Upon turning Professional at the beginning of February, I signed with BlackStar Golf Management as one of their players. They will help me to organise my travel, playing schedule, as well as source sponsorship and playing opportunities for me in the next few years. It’s an extremely exciting time for me as I have opportunities ahead of me - now just for the hard part of playing well at the right time! As of right now I will be playing the MENA tour as well as some Challenge Tour events on invitations. However, I am going to the EUROPRO Q School at the end of March and if I were to get a card I would more than likely take that up and play there the whole year.

Deane

Emirates Golf Club; at that time, golf was not my only passion so it took a bit of a backseat for a while. I also enjoyed skiing, tennis, swimming, football, diving, taekwondo, art, and music. When I turned thirteen I made the decision to take up golf as my main sport. So, my brother and I started private lessons with Stephen Deane and he still teaches me up to this day. He has helped me so much with my game and I see myself improving a lot. I had my first hole-in-one

We then became members at ne hole-in-o My first

with him on the Par 3 course recently. I was overwhelmed. However, I still need to work on my confidence when I play on the course. This year, I want to 8th hole on the Majlis play more tournaments so that I get more experience. My goal is to to bring my handicap down from 12.6 to a single figure. My inspiration to excel comes from my coach Stephen Deane and my grandfather K. K. Aiyappa. He took on the enormous task of turning waste marsh land into a beautiful 18-hole golf course called Coorg Golf Links. It is now a stunning course that is 25 years old and celebrating its silver jubilee in Coorg, India.

THE PRO CADDIE EXPERIENCE We are delighted to offer you a professional caddie experience, guaranteed to elevate your game and maximise your performance. Whether you are an improving player or a skilled golfer, the Pro Caddie Experience will provide you with the following:• Expert course knowledge and strategic insights • Accurate distance and green reading detail • Assistance with pace of play • Motivational companionship and post-game analysis • Opportunity to experience a round like a Tour Pro Package Cost Single Caddie Group Caddie* Member AED 1,400 Member AED 2,100 Guest AED 2,200 Guest AED 3,300 *a group caddie will assist all players in your group with course detail, distance and green reading without carrying a bag For enquiries and bookings, please contact The Academy on +971 4 417 9845 or email emiratesacademy@dubaigolf.com dubaigolf.com

TEE & SAND WEDGES FROM THE PRO SHOP

e have two new Custom Fitters in town, Frank Murray and Jordan Gallagher.

assistance from the pros and custom fitting team. I will be looking forward to meeting members and guests over the coming weeks”. Jordan has joined us from Scotland where he completed his PGA training and latterly became one of the youngest Head Professionals in UK.

Frank grew Frank Murray Jordan Gallagher He enjoys playing golf competitively up on links golf in the and, having won three professional north east of Scotland and completed events, looks forward to helping you his UK PGA back in 2007.. He has spent improve your game. many years developing his knowledge and skills to help develop and advise Jordan’s favourite brand is Titleist and he players to improve their game, specialising plays the latest 917 Metal Woods and 916 in equipment technology. Frank will be irons. responsible for custom fitting on the Faldo range where he will be available to help NEW BALL LAUNCH with game improvement and any enquires Titleist have launched a new Pro V1 and about golf technology and equipment. Pro V1x. The results are incredible with some He invites players of all levels to avail of the changes to the overall performance in each opportunity to try and test new equipment ball. Be sure to ask the fitters which one which will help improve distance and will suit your game. dispersion. OTHER TECHNOLOGY “My main aim in joining the team here Ping have launched a at Emirates Golf Club is to engage and new iron (i200), a new educate players in the many club brands wedge (Glide 2.0), new and options represented here, while ladies range (GLe) and offering a first class service to complement. 15 new putters (SIGMA At the Faldo range we are trying to create G). These are all available a hub where players can come and practise for fitting in our demo in a relaxed environment, while availing of carts at The Faldo Range.

Callaway have launched their new Epic Metal woods and new Odyssey putters. The Epic Metal woods appear to be very popular with Rory McIlroy choosing to play the product without a Callaway contract. Also TaylorMade have launched their new M1 and M2 family. Both the new metal woods and the irons are available at the Faldo Range. Following on from the success of last year’s product, Tiger Woods has made the decision to choose these woods. They are also launching new forged irons (P770, P750 Tour Proto), new wedges (Milled Grind) and two new Spider Tour putters which will be a replica of the Jason Day and Dustin Johnson putters. These will be available in March. Warm Regards, Juan Kramer Retail Manager

Indian l Invitationa

25 ANNIVERSAY L A N IO T A IT V IN N IA D IN TH

t was in the year 1992 when the first Indian Invitational Golf Day was held in Dubai. Ashok Bakshi, Suresh Subberwal, Parry Bahri, and Surender Kandhari were the pioneer organisers of the event. Back then it was the Japanese expatriates who first had a communitysponsored tournament. The Indian Invitational Golf Day was the second of its kind and it is the only communitysponsored tournament that is still being held to this day as an annual golfing event. It has now become the oldest and among the most popular tournaments at Emirates Golf Club, enjoyed mostly by the entire family of Club members.

we were the ones who initiated the support to Emirates Golf Club junior colleague fund”, said Surender Kandhari, who has been personally organising this tournament since its inception.

(L to R) Kapil Dev, Ashok Bakshi, Surender Kandhari and Club Captain 2002 Tom Barry

Invitational Golf Day raffle; the funds collected through the raffle are always presented to them. This year the organisers are aiming to collect a larger amount to give a significant incentive to each of the 350 junior colleagues.

The 2017 event will be a 1.00pm shotgun on 10th of March and the format is an 18-hole Shamble on the Faldo and Majlis courses playing a front nine and a back nine on each course with a ¾ handicap index allowance. Surender Kandhari (L) with Kapil Dev (centre), Captain The evening programme of the Indian Cricket Team that won the World Cup 1983 will feature live band entertainment, a raffle with some exciting For the past 25 prizes and the years, Indian prize distribution members have during dinner. actively supported The Ambassador the event as of India to the their spouses UAE is scheduled and dependents to be the chief traditionally guest of the also play in the event. PGA tournament. Professionals and From the very Surender Kandhari (L) with Russi Patel Captains of other beginning, the (2nd from right) and Subash-Subberwal golf clubs in junior colleagues Dubai have been of the Club invited to play in this special 25th have been the beneficiaries of the Indian anniversary event. “I can’t believe that it has been 25 years already. Maybe because I really loved playing golf and enjoyed organising tournaments that I’ve not realised how time has passed. I’m happy to say that the Indian-community in the UAE, not only Indianmembers of the Club, have sincerely supported this tournament for everybody to enjoy. We are also proud that (L to R) Kapil Dev, Bubbles Kandhari, Mike Gerbich

Subash Subberwal (L) Captain of Tollygunge Golf Club and Suresh Subberwal (R)

Along with the help of Club Captain Vipen Sethi and Emirates Golf Club members Rekha Bandopadhyay and Jayshree Gupta, the 25th anniversary edition promises to be yet another memorable golf day bringing back memories of good old times.

Dear Members, Register for the 25th Indian Invitational Golf Day - on Friday 10th March on the Majlis and Faldo courses at Emirates Golf Club. Tournament Format 18 hole Shamble (9 holes on the Majlis and 9 holes on the Faldo course) 3/4 handicap index Entries are open to all golfing members Enter as a pair and the Indian Invitational committee will join you with two fellow members to complete your team Entry Fee AED 100 including post tournament buffet dinner, prize presentation and special on-course food and beverages To register, please visit the Member Zone or contact the Golf Office on +971 4 417 9858 or email golfoffice@dubaigolf.com

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

first time I saw Banyan I fell in love with it and I was determined to play golf there as much and for as long as possible so each winter this is our intent now that we have life membership.

I believe we are termed ‘foodies’ and Bangkok was a revelation to us with the range of culinary delights on offer from simple street food to the top level restaurants such as Gaggan, Nahm, Bo Lan and our favourite, Paste. Mary’s passion is cooking so she cooks and I eat…a good combination!

Last year we came back to Dubai for the Omega Dubai Desert Classic and we had such a great time socialising with old friends and acquaintances that we repeated it again this year. The course is so wonderful and the tournament is one of the best on the European Tour. We hope to be able to come back at least every second year to catch up and enjoy Dubai which is quite a remarkable city given its continuous evolution. I remember my first visit in early 1980 when there was the Metropolitan Hotel, the Trade Centre Apartments, Zabeel roundabout and nothing much else on Sheikh Zayed Road. Compare that to the futuristic metropolis that is Dubai now; it is indeed a city for the 21st century and deserves all the plaudits it receives. Truly unique.

I was keen to take early retirement and at the third time of asking it was approved by my company, SDI, with whom I had worked since 1979. In August 2015 we packed up our shipment and headed back to our home on Galway Bay Golf Resort to unpack and enjoy a couple of months of golf before heading back to Thailand and the winter in Hua Hin, three hours drive south of Bangkok. Why there? Well, I had discovered the most natural, beautiful golf course nestling in a valley above the town where the GM is Stacey Walton, former F&B Manager of Emirates Golf Club. The

Retired life then is surprisingly busy and fulfilling. Our intent is to travel in Europe during the summer months. to enjoy golf in Ireland and to pass through Dubai when travelling to Banyan in Thailand. I know some Emirates Golf Club members have been to the latter and be assured, you

fter 17 years in Dubai, we left our ‘comfort zone’ in October 2013 to relocate to Bangkok, Thailand where I was taking up my new position in charge of Business Development for Asia Pacific. It’s always harder for the non-working spouse to resettle but, given Mary’s outgoing personality and friendliness, it took no time for her to ‘get in the flow’ of Bangkok life. She started working with the British Women’s Association and volunteered to assist Sister Joan, an amazing 85 year old Australian nurse, who tends to the poor in the slums of Klong Toey Bangkok. She also managed a few games of golf on some of the many courses in and around the city as I did occasionally.

will receive a very warm welcome from Stacey and his Director of Golf Stuart Daly from Cork. The same is true of Galway Bay, a magnificently attended course on the south side of Galway Bay - do come and see us.

Where Are They Now

Douglas & Mary Brown

Best wishes then to you all there at the Club. Douglas and Mary Brown

#teamdubaigolf #meettheteam

Meet William Tickell, Golf Services Executive at Emirates Golf Club. Originally from Sheffield in the UK, Will moved to Dubai in September 2016 to start his internship at the Club. He has recently completed his Masters in International Business at Sheffield Business School. When he is not at work, Will enjoys painting, cooking, playing the piano, walking in the countryside (which he doesn’t get to do much in Dubai!) and chilling out on Kite Beach!

Meet Vilma, receptionist at Fit Lab. Originally from the Philippines, Vilma has been at Emirates Golf Club for almost three years. When she is not at work, Vilma enjoys trying different Thai and Japanese foods as well as watching romantic comedy movies!

Hello Ishan, lifeguard Originally from Sri Lanka, he has been working at Emirates Golf Club for over 10 years. When he is not at work, Ishan enjoys working out at the gym and playing cricket. His favourite movie? The Mechanic.

Member Pr

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MEMBER PROFILE

Surender Kandhari I

landed in Dubai for the first time on 19th December 1975 (I was 27 years old) from Delhi on a KLM flight which reached here at 10.00am which was to be a fourday exploratory visit. The weather was very cold so I felt quite at home, especially as I found a lot of people from India around and the language was a not a problem. After deciding to start my tyre business in Dubai, I went back to India and returned on 5th March 1976 to settle down here and start my business in full swing. I was used to a lot of luxury in Hyderabad, India by way of domestic help, driver etc. and here I had to do all the work myself which was a little strange and sometimes difficult. I started my tyre business, importing and selling tyres; I stayed initially at the Phoenicia Hotel in Nasser Square for one month trying to set up things and getting a trade licence; getting to know my way around was tough as nothing was well organised then. I entered into a partnership with a friend and I initially used his office to get started. In 1976, when we moved here, Dubai was just opening up as a trading hub so we had the advantage of being the early birds. The boom had just begun and Dubai’s proximity to India was another huge advantage.

There was freedom for business and the place was tolerant towards other cultures. Dubai was the best place to set up shop and I began exploring the idea of setting up our tyre business here because Dubai provided the best opportunity with the place becoming a financial base. We could export to places like Iran and Nigeria. Everyone from the Middle East was buying from Dubai so it was like a big supermarket. I finally set up in Deira in 1976, and Al Dobowi (which means, ‘the man from Dubai’ in Arabic) was born. Over the years, our group has consolidated its global positioning by forming alliances with companies that are regarded as household names in the world of tyres; however, in those early years modernisation was in full steam and the not-sosuper roads back then made our business grow expotentially. When the modernisation process started with massive construction, upgrading of roads and largescale movement of vehicles, tyres became an integral part of the whole development and Al Dobowi was well placed to make the best use of this

opportunity. The company represents major brands like Goodyear, General, Continental, Pirelli, Hankook and Ceat. Also Exide and Hankook batteries. When I came here I could see that the locals really trusted Indians, especially Sikhs which was really good. I approached a transport company manager here sometime at the end of 1976 and offered him tyres. He asked me if I had 100 tyres which I did. When he came to check it he was surprised to see that I had 10,000 tyres as stock in my warehouse. He realised I was genuine and spread the word around which helped to kick off the company from that point. I was the first person to offer warranty on tyres which was a big plus. I got tyres from CEAT and MRF in India who gave me warranty so why would I not give warranty to my customers? My thrust was, and still is, quality. I started my own brand – Infinity – and we remained the only tyre company to provide warranty for a Chinese made Tyre. Getting a trade licence was not difficult but I had a strange experience in choosing the name of the company - I was given the name by the officer of Dubai Municipality Al Dobowi Tyre Company was then formed. Today’s environment is very professional and very organised but 40 years ago it was very basic. Most things were done by word of mouth with less paperwork, fewer formalities. It was quite simple to set up shop and start a business then. Integrity and honesty are at the heart of our business. We expect our people to maintain high ethical standards in everything they do, both in their work for the Group and in their personal lives. Our assets are our people, capital and reputation. If any of these is ever diminished, reputation is the most difficult to restore. It seems only yesterday that I arrived in Dubai. Forty later I am still here and still count Dubai as my home. The rulers of this country have provided us tremendous

It all started more than 58 years ago when my grandfather Atma Singh, who himself had helped build a Gurudwara in Vijaywada, in the south Indian state of Andhra Pradesh in 1956, told me, that one day I too must help build a Gurudwara when I grow up.

As per our traditions we serve free food from 6.00am to 9.00pm every day to all who come to the Temple. Everybody, whatever their faith, is welcome at the Temple to enjoy a spiritual experience along with a tasty vegetarian meal. Today, Guru Nanak Darbar has become the symbol of Sikh religious worship in the UAE. Thousands of pilgrims as well as people from other religions from across the UAE visit the Gurudwara. It has also become a must-visit tourist place for tour groups from India and UK. The Gurudwara has 35 full time staff and dozens of volunteers who help organise events during festive times. It serves 10,000 vegetarian meals every Friday, and about 1,000 daily during the week to people who visit the Gurudwara regardless of their religion or race. Bubbles has been highly instrumental in

I was just eight year old at that time and it struck me as a bit odd that my grandfather should ask me to do something as huge as that. Then strangely, when I was 12 year old and studying at Hyderabad Public School, an itinerant palm reader told me that by the age of 45, I would become a priest. I promptly told him “No” as I wanted to run our family business in automotive spare parts in India, which was then three generations old. I had no intention of giving it all up. However, that incident stuck in my mind and often made me think about what my grandfather had said to me years earlier. The idea of the Gurudwara germinated 13 years ago with the growing need of a proper place of worship for the Sikhs, who until January 2012 shared space in the temple premises in Bur Dubai. In the Sikh culture and religion, a Gurudwara is central to the community as that’s where we gather and hold our weddings, celebrate births and festivals, mourn deaths, meet each other, eat at the Langar (free community kitchen) and bond as a people to show our care and concern for another. A Gurudwara is not just the house of God for us, it is the life force that ties the whole

Gurudwara, in which she is also the Vice Chairperson. A proud mother of two sons, Jasjeev and Harjeev and a happy grandmother to four loving grandsons, Bubbles moved to Dubai in 1976 and got into the family business at her husband’s company, Al Dobowi.

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I had followed my family tradition of leading the community’s efforts to build Gurudwaras in places where there are none and how it was my destiny to serve God and the Sikh community.

Sikh community together and our lives revolve around it. That was missing here. I decided to do something about it and along with other prominent members of the Sikh and Sindhi community in the UAE I spearheaded the community’s efforts to build a Gurudwara in Dubai.

Member Pr

opportunities and we are always genuinely grateful to them. The most important opportunity that they have given us is to allow mine and my wife’s dream to come true. On 17th January 2012 we opened the first official Sikh Temple (Gurudwara) in the Middle East in Jebel Ali Village. It took us five years to build and it has turned out to be the most modern Gurudwara in the world.

Bubbles gained great inspiration from the teachings of Guru Nanak. In her endeavor to show respect to all, she met with notable personalities like Mother Theresa, The Dalai Lama and Osho, who have inspired her into giving back to society and to grow spiritually. Surender is an avid golfer and is a founder member at Emirates Golf Club and also a founding member of the World Trade Centre Club, Surender has won numerous awards:- under the category of “Sikhs in Seva” which was held in London on 21st October 2012 organised by The World Sikh Awards, UK for his contribution to society through means of Seva (Selfless Voluntary Service) and an outstanding individual who has most excellently demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision when helping others by building the first official Gurudwara in the Middle East. - in 2014 the British Sikh Association honoured Surender by the prestigious ‘Sikh Jewel Award’ for his exceptional service, dedication and commitment to the Sikh community - was bestowed with the ‘Business Excellence Award 2016’ by H.E. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan Minister of Culture, Youth and Social Development Abu Dhabi.

developing it to be the first Gurudwara to get an ISO certification, in fact, the only religious institution in the world to get all levels of ISO Certification - we are trying to get into Guinness Book of World Records for the unique feat. My wife, Bubbles Kandhari, is devoted to serving humanity through her community services, reaching thousands of people across the region throughout the year. In spite of her busy corporate life as a Director in the Al Dobowi Group, she spends countless hours in supervising kirtans, weddings, meals and prayers in the holy premises of Dubai’s only Sikh temple, the Guru Nanak Darbar

- was honoured with the prestigious ‘Punjabi Icon Award’ which is of international repute recognising his achievement in the Global Corporate Sector by the Punjabi Cultural Heritage Board - felicitated by the NDTV Gulf Indian Excellence Awards on 11 Dec 2016 for being a truly outstanding Gulf Indian Business Leader and an inspiration for Indians across the globe.

OMEGA DUBAI DE by Viren Varma, golf in DUBAi

t was a week with no shortage of talking points, from the weather to the highprofile field that blazed with the ranks of nine Major champions with 24 titles combined, four European number ones, 11 past champions and 10 of the 12 members of the 2016 European Ryder Cup team members. Every engrossing tale has subplots and this year’s Omega Dubai Desert Classic had several before Spain’s Sergio Garcia emerged as the worthy winner of the 28th edition of the longest-running European Tour event in the region. Unfortunately, the tournament lost main draws Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods (after round one) through injuries, but there was still drama aplenty — both on and off the

course — that resonated across the golfing world. Garcia, making his eighth appearance, displayed imperious touch to rack up his 12th victory in his 250th European Tour event, becoming the sixth Spaniard to inscribe his name on the iconic Dallah and moving to third in the Race to Dubai Rankings with 410,224 points. At 37 years 27 days, he also became the third youngest Spaniard to win 12 European Tour titles behind the great Seve Ballesteros and Jose Maria Olazabal. Attribute it to old school loyalty or the Magic of the Majlis, every golfer felt like coming home in Dubai and that is one big reason why the iconic Dallah, as the

Arabian coffee-pot shaped trophy is called, holds a special reverence to golfers, adding credence to assertion that both are Made for Greatness, as the tournament was taglined this year. Greatness may have many miles to wind for players like Rayhan Thomas, but the young amateur will relish every moment of competing at this highest level of golf. Making the cut and playing the final round alongside the Masters champion Danny Willett was a reward for a player who graduated from the ranks of the MENA Golf Tour, serving as an inspiration to the emerging talent for region’s golfers. Talk about amateurs and it was Australia’s Curtis Luck who made his ‘desert safari’ an event to remember, emerging as the leading

ESERT CLASSIC amateur in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, this was indeed a creditable performance for a player who is waiting until after his upcoming Masters appearance to turn professional. It’s a tribute to Craig Haldane and his maintenance team at Emirates Golf Club that despite suspension of play due to high winds that brought down some trees and blew tonnes of sands, they kept the course in prime condition, winning plaudits from all and sundry for their work. A total of 1,344 birdies and 24 eagles were recorded during the week with the par-5, 13th proving to be the easiest hole, producing 178 birdies and eight eagles while the par-4, 12th was the toughest resulting in just 21 birdies.

Garcia’s victory meant that it was the second time in two years that both the reigning champions of the Omega Dubai Ladies Masters (Shanshan Feng) and the Omega Dubai Desert Classic are the brand ambassador of the Swiss luxury watchmaker. Omega could not have timed it better by announcing the extension of their title sponsorship partnership of the two premier events for another four years, just a day before the Garcia victory! Mohamed Juma Buamaim, ViceChairman and CEO of golf in DUBAi, said: “Coincidences mean you’re on the right path and we are happy to see Omega brand ambassadors as champions of both of our tournaments. Their victories have certainly

taken the profile of the events to a whole new level. I wish them every success for the future. OMEGA’S trust in our tournaments is an honour. The brand has been an invaluable partner over the years and we are extremely pleased to be able to count on their continued support. The Omega Dubai Desert Classic is backed by OMEGA as the title sponsor and Emirates Global Aluminium PJSC as sponsor. The co-sponsors are: CNN, Drydocks World, Emirates NBD, Gulf News, JA Resorts & Hotels, Mercedes-Benz and wasl, while Dubai Duty Free, Neocasa Interiors and Motivate Publishing are the Patrons in golf in DUBAi’s drive to showcase the Emirate’s vibrant golfing scene to a worldwide audience.

SSIC I DESERT CLA

OMEGA DUBA Swedish fans

Rich Beam & Brian Lara

Dallahdrome colleagues

Najla, Naima, Martha & Bianca, enjoying Omega chalet hospitality

rgio Garcia son with Se Yana Jamei

a Ganesh & Brian Lar

The creation of ‘DallahDrome’ further jazzed up the atmosphere of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic much to the delight of fans. Its name drew inspiration from the iconic Arabian coffee pot trophy, called Dallah in Arabic, the drome offered the best seats — and view — in the house.

Set against the backdrop of the signature clubhouse and overlooking the first tee, DallahDrome offered the easy way out for those wanting to soak up the sun and fresh air while watching players smash their tee shots down the lush fairways.

Fun in the sun was the name of the game at the DallahDrome where there was live entertainment, multiple TVs, fully-stocked beverages; in addition there was an imaginative food menu specially designed and priced for added value and variety which offered an experience to savour.

Member Cathy Lajotte with Tiger Woods

Tom Barry & Andy Sullivan

Past Members Spotted

AT THE OMEGA DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC

Anne Hornby & Jenni Hoskins

Bob & Angela Connor

Jeanette Taylor

Lloyd & Annette Stewart

Barbara & Ronnie Fotheringham & Caroline Jones

Nancy Wingate

Nicky Lawrenson

Mary & Douglas Brown

MIKE GERBICH

PRO-AM BY HENRIK STENSON as told to Joy Chakravarty Sport360

ne of the first congratulatory messages I received after winning the BMW International Open in Munich last year was from Mike Gerbich which was just so typical of the person he was – always the first to be on your side, irrespective of whether your times were good or bad. We exchanged messages and I knew he was battling hard with cancer at that time. That was two weeks before the Open Championship and then, on the Monday of the Open, I got a call from his son Kashe to say that Mike wasn’t doing too well. Kashe tried to organise a call, but he was too weak to speak. A day later, on Tuesday, my wife Emma joined me at Royal Troon. That evening both of us shed a few tears in our room as we knew what was going to happen. On Wednesday morning, we got the message we never wanted to receive. Mike was gone. Gone too soon, I would say. It felt like a blow. In the evening, I posted a picture of ours on my Facebook page playing a Pro-Am in Dubai. Going through the comments later, one short message made me pause. I think it read: “Go and win the Open for Mike”. That’s really when it struck me. I spent some time thinking about it. I told myself that I was going to try my hardest. That kind of became the purpose of my week. To then have the outcome that we finally had, was very, very special. When I said I felt his presence throughout the week, I really meant it. I definitely had a few short talks with him out on the golf course. If I hit a bad shot, I would have been upset with myself normally but I did not let that happen that week, because I was playing for him. I did not want anything to interfere with the mission. So today, when we play the Omega Dubai Desert Classic Pro-Am in his memory, it is going to be another emotional day for me. This golf course and this city was where I first met the man, who really was one the kindest and gentlest souls you could ever come across. Mike was a fantastic friend and supporter of golf in general. He was so passionate about the game. I think he was good friends

with everybody on the European Tour. He would be there at Emirates Golf Club throughout the week of the Desert Classic, making sure each and every Professional and every staff member was comfortable. The one thing everyone remembers about Mike was how eager he was to help. When Emma and I moved in here, he was the one to point us in the right direction whenever we needed something done. He helped us with the plumber, and he helped us with government offices. I think he took great pleasure in being a guardian. Mike and his wife, Francie, who is an equally magnanimous person, attended our wedding here in 2006, and a few days before that, Mike, along with Chris Turlik, was the one who organised my bachelor’s party. When the family moved to Arizona, we would meet every year during the WGC-Match Play. I also invited them a couple of times to the Masters. He became really good at social media – which doesn’t come easy to people his age – and even though we would not get together for months, it still felt we had been in touch on a regular basis. I wish I had played more golf with him. Whenever we did, they were some of the most enjoyable rounds. He’d have a cigar on one side of his mouth, and his golf was hit it, find it, and hit it again. Like every golfer in the world, he wanted to get better, but what was evident was the fun he derived from the game. The man really had a phenomenal appetite for life. He had the rare ability of putting a smile on any face. Even now, when I think of him, it is with a smile and not with tears in my eyes. Those who have met him, will know about his trademark ‘badabing badabong’. I don’t know where he got that from, but that’s how he’d always end a funny comment. ‘Badabing Badabong’…gosh, I really want to hear that once again. So, rest in peace my friend. You’ve done more than your fair share in making everyone down here happy. Now do the same up there.

OMEGA DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC PRO-AM RESULTS

Mike Gerbich, a former Captain at the Club, passed away the week Sten son won The Open. Teary-eyed, he dwelled at leng th on their association in his victory spe ech.

Results from the Omega Dubai Desert Classic Pro-Am which was dedicated to the memory of Mike Gerbich, a great friend of golf in Dubai. Sweden’s Henrik Stenson, who dedicated his Open title to Mike Gerbich, his long-time friend and sometime mentor, attended the presentation in the evening.

During the Omega Dubai Des ert Classic, Mike Gerbich and his contrib ution to the sport in these parts came up. As the unofficial host of the Pro-Am, Stenson spo ke fondly about him at the presentation and afte rwards rejoined a group of friends and family of Mike who had gathered together over drin ks and canapés in M’s for an evening to rememb er Mike.

MORNING SHOTGUN: 1. Drydocks World 3: Wang Jeung-hun (Pro), Masataka Ito, Bon Sik Han, Vivek Puri: 35-under 2. Wasl 3: Chris Wood (Pro), Vipen Sethi, Ed Hesson, Joe Smith: 29-under 3. ‘golf in DUBAi’ 1: Kiradech Aphibarnrat (Pro), Steve Kavanagh, Pasan Teparak, Kajohnphob Teepajanont: 29-under AFTERNOON SHOTGUN: 1. Neocasa Interiors: Ross Fisher (Pro), Shahriar Khodjasteh, Tejan FadluDeen, Allan Stanton: 36-under 2. GOLF CITIZEN: Prom Meesawat (Pro), Pattanapong Srimak, Rachapol Thampiyachai Kitti Nuncharoen: 30-under 3. Emirates NBD 1: Graeme McDowell (Pro), Miles Nelson, Tariq Javed, Manoj Khatod: 29-under The prizewinners of the Mike Gerbich Memorial Pro Am (afternoon session) with Mohamed Juma Buamaim, Vice-Chairman and CEO of golf in DUBAi, Henri Burrus, Omega’s Regional Sales Manager, and Henrik Stenson at Emirates Golf Club

Spotted at ODDC 1

2 3

1. Chef Francois & Ross Barry 2. Former F&B Manager at the Club, Stacey Walton 3. Micky Brigg 4. Mick Brett, Maria & Cees Van Dooren

Scottsdale

Cup

The entire European team and the team representing Desert Highlands Golf Club.

THE SCOTTSDALE CUP A report by Dale Tingly, Desert Highlands Golf Club. Scottsdale Arizona

he Scottsdale Cup is an event that started about five years ago when a group of guys from UK visited Arizona for a winter golf trip and, at the same time, took in the Waste Management Tournament. There are about 25-30 players who visit and they play a number of the local courses in Scottsdale. Mike Gerbich, through his connections with a number of UK golfers, participated in a match of twelve of the UK players against a combination of twelve Pros and members of Desert Highlands Golf Club where Mike became a member after leaving Dubai. This year a tribute was made to Mike when the Director of Golf made a speech on the driving range, asked for a minute’s silence.and also named Mike the Honorary Captain.

We have a new, more prominent and fitting cup for this event now; on the base on a silver plaque is written, Honorary Captain: Mike Gerbich

Jamie (England), Dale Tingley, Dave Shaffer and Dave also from England posed for the picture before teeing off on the first hole.

This year the boys played their hearts out to win the cup for the fifth straight year since the Scottsdale Cup began. After five straight losses the UK team are quite serious about taking the cup back to England. I have been fortunate to have played with my friend Mike (the ones that he was able to play in) in every tournament since it began. We were all sad not to be able to play with him last year but it has been heartbreaking for all of us this year to accept we will never be playing with him ever again. He will be in all of our hearts, always. We had a lovely ceremony including a minute’s silence to remember Mike’s involvement and Gerb’s friendship with Henrik Stenson. Henrik loved Mike as we all did. We have just concluded the drive for the Mike Gerbich Memorial Fund and closed it out at $13,800. which will all be donated for Junior Golf Scholarships.

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GREENKEEPER S CUTTINGS

his was my 10th Omega Dubai Desert Classic and 20th professional tournament at Emirates Golf Club. In that time we have dealt with a number of challenges, including numerous fog delays, rain and some wind. What we were hit with on the Friday of this year’s tournament however was, without question the worst wind conditions I have ever been exposed to personally and the effect that it had on the course over a 24-hour period was eye opening; indeed! I have to commend the team for their efforts in getting the course tidied up throughout the Friday night and early hours of the Saturday morning. It was a massive effort but we were set and ready to complete play and the tournament finished on schedule. The African Turf Academy is based in Pretoria South Africa and is supported by the R&A with the Elmwood Greenkeeping College curriculum as study material for young aspiring greenkeepers. Due to our partnership with Jacobsen, our equipment supplier, we were able to create an opportunity for two students to come over and be part of the tournament preparations for this year’s event. Justin Harrison and Wayne Walker were the fortunate students this year and it was a pleasure to host them. What an opportunity for them to see first hand, what it takes to prepare the course and I have no doubt they will be taking some great skills back with them to share with their friends in Turf. Innovation forms one of our key values and we are always challenging ourselves with what we can do that is slightly out of the norm in terms of presentation. In 2015 we had tartan cut fairways, 2016 saw us present Bermuda contrasted fairways mown in one direction and this year we mowed a target in the landing zones exactly 300 yards off the tee, which was also spiralling out some 15 yards to each side. It is an opportunity to be innovative, get people talking, aligning ourselves with the event organisers and

their aspirations to bring new innovation to or event and, of course, to get exposure through the various social media channels which not only enhances the Emirates Golf Club brand, but also brings attention to the event as well as to Dubai. Traditionalists like my father may not be so keen, but talk about it they did. Most importantly it does not deter from the playing conditions which is, of course, paramount! #daretobedifferent.

r’s Greenkeepe Cuttings

By Craig Haldane Director - Golf Course Maintenance

Luke and I had the wonderful opportunity of hosting superintendents in our region on the Thursday of the event, as a thank you to them all for the support network that forms such an integral part in our trade. We are very lucky to work around likeminded individuals who collectively want to see each other succeed. At any point we can pick up the phone to each other and ask for advice, equipment or people and it was a great gesture from ‘golf in DUBAi’ who helped make this happen, thank you!

Luke has had a positive influence over his five year term with us at EGC and it would be remiss of me not to give him a lot of credit for some of the positive changes that have been made over this time. His role is vital on the team and knowing that your right hand man is going to get things done certainly helps ease the pressures on a daily basis. There is so much happening throughout the year and behind the scenes that most people would not appreciate what we are exposed to, particularly in tournament week and Luke has been nothing short of fantastic throughout, thank you!! Finally to the membership, we appreciate how much time you have provided us to get things ready and we want to thank you for this. I know it takes some time for us to get the rough back down again but I assure you it gets done in the quickest time possible without being detrimental to the course. The greens will remain firm and true for quite some time now with this cold snap we have been exposed to Things are growing very slowly out there on the Bermuda greens so be sure to allow that extra inch or two on the break of your putts! Have fun and good golfing!

24 Rules By R

hys

RULES BY RHYS

From the Decisions of the Rules of Golf Book:

Provisional Ball

he provisional ball is a much undervalued ball in golf. For whatever reason golfers are reluctant to hit that ‘time saving’ provisional ball, despite this being beneficial to the rhythm of their own game and to all fellow competitors and members playing behind them. The minutes saved to walk or cart back to the tee box may not seem a lot at the time but if even only 10 players in a field of golfers fail to do this then this can easily add 20-30 minutes to the round. Announcement of Provisional ball To abide by the rules of golf if a player wishes to play a provisional ball, then before playing the players statement must mention the words “Provisional Ball.” A player who says nothing has actually put another ball in play under the penalty of stroke and distance. The following are examples of statements that do

not satisfy the requirements of announcing a provisional ball: a) “That might be lost. I am going to reload.” b) “That might be out of here” c) “I’d better hit another one.” d) I will never find that one. I’ll Play another” What if there is no one present to hear the announcement of a provisional ball??? The rules state that in the interest of not delaying play then you are considered to have fulfilled the announcement requirements if you inform your marker or fellow competitor as soon as practicable that you have played a provisional ball. Interesting Decision: 27-2b/2 When Provisional Ball Holed Becomes Ball in Play Q. At a short hole, A’s tee shot may be out

of bounds or lost, so he plays a provisional ball, which he holes. A does not wish to look for his provisional ball. B, A’s opponent or a fellow competitor, goes back to look for the original ball. When does the provisional ball become the ball in play? A. In equity the provisional ball becomes the ball in play as soon as A picks it out of the hole, provided his original ball has not already been found within five minutes of B starting to search for it. If you have any rules queries that you would like to discuss over the coming weeks then please do not hesitate to ask on your next visit to the club or simply Email your query to rjames@dubaigolf.com.

The R&A and the USGA announce proposed changes to modernise Rules of Golf

he R&A and the USGA have unveiled a preview of the proposed new Rules of Golf, as part of a joint initiative to modernise the Rules and make them easier to understand and apply. The online release of this preview begins a six-month feedback and evaluation period during which all golfers worldwide can learn about the proposed changes and provide input before they are finalised in 2018 and take effect on 1 January 2019. Some of the major changes include the following… There is no longer a penalty: For accidentally moving your ball while searching for it. For accidentally moving your ball or ball-marker when it is on the putting green.

If your ball in motion accidentally hits you, your equipment, your caddie, someone attending the flagstick for you or a removed or attended flagstick. For playing a ball from the putting green and hitting the unattended flagstick in the hole. For touching or moving loose impediments in a bunker.

If your caddie marks and lifts your ball on the putting green without your specific authorization to do so. Touching your line of putt or touching the putting green in pointing out target. Relaxed Restrictions: Relaxed dropping procedure: The only requirement is that you hold the ball above the ground without it touching any growing thing or other natural or artificial object, and let it go so that it falls through the air before coming to rest; it is recommended that the ball be dropped from at least one inch above the ground or any growing thing or object. Fixed measures define the relief area: You use the fixed distance of 20 inches or 80 inches to measure the relief area (no longer using one or two club-lengths); this can readily be measured by using markings on the shaft of a club.

BIRDS OF THE EMIRATES

Greater Flamingo by Akhil Vinayak Menon

Photo Courtesy: Akhil Menon, golf in DUBAi

Scientific Name: Phoenicopterus Roseus Shot: Faldo Course Date shot: February 2015 Wiki link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ Greater_flamingo Description: The bird of the month is the Greater Flamingo. Not seen very often on the golf course, the bird is usually a winter visitor to Dubai although there are some of these birds who have made Dubai their home at the Ras Al Khor Bird Sanctuary. This species is the larger variety with long legs

Lost Ball Reduced time for ball search: A ball is lost if not found in three minutes (rather than the current five minutes) after you begin searching for it. You May: Repair almost all damage (including spike marks and animal damage) on the putting green (rather than being limited to repairing only ball-marks or old hole plugs).

and body and hence the name. The bird in the picture is a sub-adult and so lacks the synonymous pink colour. Sub-adults are usually whitish grey and only attain the pink colouration several years into their adult life. That said, the Greater Flamingoes have the least amount of pink in their plumage as compared to their closely related American or Chilean Flamingo counterparts. These birds are heard making deep honking and grunting noises. Their usual habitat is coastal lagoons, salt-lakes and mudflats so on the golf course as well, they

are usually seen near the water bodies. They breed colonially in shallow waters and usually lay a single egg on a mud mound nest that they make. They feed with their heads down, on small shrimps, seeds, blue-green algae, microscopic organisms and molluscs. They are the most widely distributed species of flamingoes with their most northern breeding grounds lying in Western Europe. From there, they are seen in Southern Europe, parts of Africa, the Middle East and Southern Asia including India. They are very distinct creatures with their unmistakable personality and they can hardly be missed at the golf course.

Replace your ball if it moves only after you had already marked, lifted and replaced it: Anytime this happens on the putting green, you replace the ball on its spot – even if it was blown by the wind or moved for no clear reason.

New unplayable ball relief option:

Relaxed restrictions on touching the sand with your hand or club when your ball is in a bunker: You are now prohibited only from touching the sand (1) with your hand or club to test the condition of the bunker or (2) with your club in the area right behind or in front of the ball, in making a practice swing or in making the backswing for your stroke.

Promoting Faster Pace of Play

For two penalty strokes, you may take relief outside the bunker by dropping a ball back on a line from the hole through where your ball was at rest in the bunker.

Encouraging you to play promptly: It is recommended that you make each stroke in no more than 40 seconds – and usually more quickly than that - once it’s your turn to play. Playing out of turn in stroke play (“ready golf”): This has always been allowed without penalty, and now you are affirmatively encouraged to do so in a safe and responsible way for convenience or to save time. New alternative form of stroke play: The Rules recognise a new “Maximum Score” form of stroke play, where your score for a hole is capped at a maximum (such as double par or triple bogey) set by the Committee, so that you can pick up and move to the next hole when your score will be at or above the maximum.

UPDATE FROM THE GOLF OFFICE

Club Updat

Dear Members,

Despite the unfortunate withdrawal through injury by Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods before and during the Omega Dubai Desert Classic I hope you agree it was another fantastic tournament and yet again, produced a fitting champion in Sergio Garcia. Let’s hope our Majlis course can continue the tradition of developing Major Champions; in 2016 our 2007 Champion, Henrik Stenson, won the Open Championship and Danny Willett followed victory over the Majlis with the US Masters title. We will be looking out for Sergio in the Majors this coming season! MEMBERS’ PARTY Please join us to celebrate the 29th Annual Members’ Party on Tuesday 14th March from 7.00pm to midnight. The invitation is applicable to members over the age of 21 years. Tickets for nonmembers can be purchased at AED 495. Please RSVP by 1st March: malbalushi@dubaigolf.com BMW GOLF CUP TOURNAMENT WORLD FINAL 2016 Please be informed that Emirates Golf Club is the host venue for the BMW Golf Cup Tournament World Final 2016 from Sunday 5th to Thursday 9th March 2017. The Club last hosted this prestigious event, welcoming guests from 40 different countries, in 1999. BMW is a strong supporter of golf in the region through regional agency AGMC and we are proud to be hosting their final once more. From Monday 6th to Thursday 9th March there is limited availability on the Majlis and Faldo courses in the morning. As a result we are able to make the following changes to the reciprocal benefits at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club: Monday 6th to Wednesday 8th March – weekday members can play complimentary golf at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, subject to availability (seven day booking window applies) Thursday 9th March – weekday and full golfing members can play complimentary golf at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, before 1.00pm, subject to availability (seven day booking window applies) Colin Montgomerie Clinic, Thursday 9th March 4.00pm During the conclusion of the BMW Golf Cup Tournament World Final, past

Omega Dubai Desert Classic Champion Colin Montgomerie will be hosting a playing clinic on Thursday 9th March from 4.00pm. He will play holes 10, 11 and 18 and all members are invited along to spectate. It should be an interesting hour and we would be delighted to see as many members attend as possible. In addition, BMW have offered three places for the March Monthly Medal winners (two men and one lady). These players will represent Emirates Golf Club in the next BMW UAE Finals later this year. 2 FOR 1 ON MEMBER GUEST RATES THIS MARCH Bring your friends and family to play the championship Majlis and Faldo courses between 12th and 22nd March 2017 and receive two for one on Members’ guest rates. Majlis: Faldo:

member’s guest rate AED 555 (before 4.00pm) member’s guest rate AED 405 (after 4.00pm) member’s guest rate AED 340

Offer is valid for 18 holes from Sunday to Thursday from 12th to 22nd March 2017. This offer excludes weekends, public holidays and 9 hole rounds. For more information and bookings, please call +971 4 417 9800 or email ereservations@ dubaigolf.com IADC GOLF TOURNAMENT The annual IADC Tournament is scheduled for 22nd and 23rd March 2017. The following changes to the reciprocal benefits at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club will be in place: Wednesday 22nd March - weekday members can play complimentary golf at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, subject to availability (seven day booking window applies) Thursday 24th March - weekday and full members can play complimentary golf at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, subject to availability (seven day booking window applies) MEMBERS’ CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE (MCC) UPDATE The OMA Emirates Medal Championship Monthly Medals have dropped slightly in numbers and it was decided through the MCC that a men’s stableford competition would run alongside the traditional strokeplay event to improve participation levels.

Late cancellations and noshows have been frequently discussed during the MCC. A number of members have reported, through the committee, their frustration when they call to reserve a time only to be told there is no availability during their preferred time slot. Then on arrival at the Club there are a number of vacant tee times on the day. The current cancellation policy is 24 hours (the day before) for weekday bookings and 48 hours (two days before) for weekends. From 1st March 2017, breaches of the no-show or late cancellation policy, irrespective of the circumstances, will be charged at AED 200 per player. This is to maximise the availability for fellow members. Upcoming Members’ Tournaments The 25th Indian Invitational Golf Day is scheduled for Friday 10th March 2017. This tournament is hosted by the Indian members of Emirates Golf Club and is open to all golfing members. Shotgun is at 1.00pm and prize distribution will be during the dinner at the Club. The format is 4-ball Shamble; please enter as a pair online through the Member Zone. Men’s Club Championship 31st March & 1st April Captain’s Day Friday 17th March, 1.00pm Lady Captain’s Day Monday 27th March, 1.00pm Please note the Kohlman Cup has moved to 14th April ROSELEAF CAFÉ I am pleased to announce that the Roseleaf Café is under construction at Fit Lab, replacing the old juice bar and we anticipate this opening by the end of March. Roseleaf Café has branches located at the Dubai Garden Centre and Burjuman Centre and offers a varied menu of home cooked, healthy food, juices and speciality coffees. ONLINE BOOKING Last week representatives from Concept, our Club operating system, were on site and spent considerable time resolving the challenges we have been experiencing with booking efficiency. A number of upgrades have been made to the system and we continue to monitor performance. We apologise for any inconvenience caused to you by recent difficulties. Best regards, Barney Coleman Club Manager

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Dear Members,

INTRODUCING REBECCA OLDS

ebecca is specialist clinical Mat Pilates instructor who discovered her passion for Pilates after a serious accident, several abdominal surgeries and the birth of her twins led her to a specialist clinic in London.

Fit Lab

fter another great Omega Dubai Desert Classic and a fantastic winner in Sergio Garcia it has highlighted to me how many of the players now take the gym so seriously. Golf fitness training is a huge part in the golfers’ regime these days and you can see, with the help of technology, how far these guys hit the ball now. To be a tip top golfer you need to be in tip top shape and gone are the days when you could just turn up and play. When I first came to work at Emirates Golf Club in 2002…..(yes, I was 12 at the time) during the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, there were very few golfers who used the gym. How times have changed! This year at Fit Lab we had the likes of Stenson, Willett, Wood, to name a few, all whom have a physiotherapist or a personal trainer with them.

During this time she attended master classes by the John Gibbons Bodymaster Method for the sacroiliac, hip, knee and shoulder joints along with Muscle Energy Techniques, small equipment and pre and post-natal courses.

Danny Willett

Here at Fit Lab we have Alan Walters who specialises in Golf Specific training and we have the likes of Jonathan Craddock and Richard Dunsby who are doing a lot of golf related TRX classes on the driving range. If you’re looking to improve your game, watch out for these guys. Roseleaf Café have commenced work and we are expecting a soft opening mid-March and the full opening around mid-April. We are very excited to get Rose, Leon and the Roseleaf Café team on board as this will enhance the whole experience at Fit Lab. They will be serving a range of healthy meals, breakfasts, smoothies etc, so watch out for this one. The Elite Squash Academy will be working alongside Nikky Harradine from March 1st and again, we are very excited to get these guys on board as they will improve on what we are already doing on the squash courts. Neil Young and his team of coaches have a wide range of experience of teaching in the UAE and will be moving from Fitness First to Emirates Golf Club. For avid squash players please look out for the next tournament being hosted in April. MEMBER OF THE MONTH Anil Adnani, who won the Member of the Month award for February, deserved this award having lost 10 kilos training with Michael. Anil has been working very hard in the gym recently; he is consistent with his cardio training in his own time and works on his strength through personal training. Also, his wife keeps him on track at home with a healthy eating routine. In total Anil has lost over 10 kilos and seems as motivated as ever to keep pushing to reach his goals. `it is a pleasure to see Anil in the gym and we look forward to seeing him continue his fitness journey. Healthy Regards, Andy Meech Head of Sports & Leisure

Inspired by her personal experience of rehabilitation and healing through Pilates, she began her journey of instruction, qualifying for her certification as a REPS Mat Level 3 instructor in 2010 with Pilates Training Solutions.

In 2012, to further her training, she certified as REPS Level 4 in Exercise for Management of Lower Back Pain. She ran her own business in UK and Qatar teaching group classes and individuals which were mainly through referrals from GPs, osteopaths and physiotherapists. She has taught a wide diversity of clients ranging in age, athleticism and medical conditions (including but not limited to Scoliosis, Fibromyalgia, Spondylolysis, Herniated Disc, Plantar Fasciitis, M.S) and she is dedicated to teaching high quality Clinical Pilates to everyone regardless of their abilities and restrictions. Email Rebeccaolds13@gmail.com Mobile +971 56 488 5397

THE ELITE SQUASH METHOD

e believe in challenging conventional teaching methods and we are constantly searching for new and innovative ways to help squash players advance. Our coaching systems are focused around helping all players to experience and develop fluency of movement and their own sense of creativity and skill, no matter what age or standard. Our goal is for our students to be successful, independent and confident squash players who enjoy both process and outcome. WORKING THROUGH MOVEMENT AND MIND Kind regards, Neil Young CEO Elite Squash UAE Mobile +971 50 625 35 89 PO Box 11854, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Email neil@elitesquash.ae Website www.elitesquash.ae

CHOOSE YOUR WEIGHTS WISELY

ne of the biggest mistakes I see being made in the gym is when people try to go too heavy with their weights, probably assuming that they will obtain results much quicker, or thinking about what other people are lifting. There is nothing wrong with wanting to work out as hard as possible, but you need to find the balance between intensity and form. Weight training is not a sprint. Results obtained over a longer period of time with smart goals will be longer lasting than trying to lift unrealistic amounts for a couple of weeks (until possible injury). Competition between friends is also a good thing, as long as it doesn’t push you to lift certain weights or perform movements that you are not ready for. On the other hand, you do need to ensure progression with your weights, and doing the same workout for months with the same sets, reps and weights will not lead to any significant development. This is also the case with your cardio. So, before you lift up that weight for your next workout, have a quick think about why you are doing what you are doing, why you have chosen this weight and how it is going to help you. Nothing beats hard work, as long as you are working out in a smart way. QUICK TIP Strength 3-5 sets of 3-5 reps Hypertrophy 4-6 sets of 8-15 reps: Endurance 1-3 sets of 15-20 reps:

2-5 minutes rest 1-2 minutes rest 30 seconds - 1 minute rest

Roseleaf’s ‘Seeded Smashed Avocado On Toast’ coming to Emirates Golf Club Soon!

COLLEAGUE

IN FOCUS

harith Kulsooriya is our colleague in focus this month. Charith has been at Emirates Golf Club for 16 years and met his wife Janice here who works on the main reception at the Club. They have been married for four years and have a son, James, who stays with Charith’s Mum in Sri Lanka.

29 Fit Lab

EXERCISE TIP OF THE MONTH

by Michael Lancaster

What do you like about working at Dubai Golf? I love working at Emirates Golf Club as it has given me the opportunity to broaden my horizons and also to meet my wife Janice. What are your hobbies? Scuba Diving, fishing, cricket, camping and looking after my family. What do you like about Dubai? I have stayed in Dubai this long because of the way the place has developed and improved over the years and how Dubai Golf keeps on evolving. What do you miss most about home? Family, friends and the weather…. plus Mum’s cooking

s t e p p i n S e l o 19th H Farewell to Catherine Convery who left Dubai last month to move back to her native Northern Ireland. Catherine has been in Dubai for over thirty years and, in the past few years she has been playing regularly at Emirates Golf Club. All the best to you Catherine - for sure we will see you back here on your travels!

These are two flags that Tom Luig asked Henrik Stenson to sign. The first one was a few years ago and says “To Uncle Tom - no more airshots please!”

Kalle Williams, a young talented Emirates Junior Member, received these fabulous momentos from Henrik Stenson during the recent Omega Dubai Desert Classic. Kalle was unselfishly helping a friend get in position for an autograph when Henrik saw this and rewarded him with his very own signed cap and glove!

WHERE CAN I USE MY LE CLASSIQUE REWARD VOUCHER? Can now be used in Le Classique at weekends and for brunches but NOT for brunch in Legends. Can also be used for wine dinners but cannot be used for special events such as Valentine’s and festive occasions

The second one was a lot kinder, “You are the gold medal I did not get!” Although these are personalised flags for Tom, he does get memorabilia signed by top golfers which he sells for local charities. Check out his website www.excellencies-of-golf.com as he has some new great pieces and it would be good to sell more items to raise money for the charities

Spotted in Dubai - I guess that means parking then!! It was a bit wet on the first day of the Ladies’ Club Championship!

Our ladies at the recent Inter-Club match which took place at Emirates Golf Club

Monday 6th February Congratulations to team Double Trouble on winning the Spike Bar Quiz Night on 6th February, followed by teams Desperados and Quizimodos!

Join our master trainer Parveez for TRX Suspension Training Classes every Monday and Wednesday at 7.00pm! Call + 971 4 417 9850 or email fitlab@dubaigolf.com to book your space.

Ishan

Marites

Ramil

Sivakumar

Valance

Colleagues at Emirates Golf Club who were recognised by Club Management for making a difference in their work.

Start the week off with Metafit at Fit Lab, every Sunday at 6.45pm. The original non-choreographed, bodyweight only HIIT workout. It’s tough, that’s why it gets results! Target the largest muscle groups in the body for greater effect and to set the metabolism on fire.

Enjoy your favourite M’s dishes at home by ordering on the Deliveroo app! Use the code “MSROO” and get AED 30 off your total order! Check out our menu here https://deliveroo.ae/menu/dubai/emirates-golf-club/ms.

STORM & CLEAN UP AT THE OMEGA DUBAI DESERT CLASSIC

Welcome back to Past Captain, Pauline Raynor who played the Majlis course with Past Captains, Margaret Bain, Jacqui Barry & Elise Hanson

LADIES THAT

BRUNCH!

+971 4 417 9999 emiratesdining@dubaigolf.com www.dubaigolf.com