Club Life May 2017

Editor: Jacqui Barry barrydxb@eim.ae

MAY 2017

CUP WINNERS KOHLMAN NATIONS

TEAM IRELAND

HANKOOK GREENSOMES CHAMPIONS

GLORY XAVIER & HANNAH ALAN

2017 CURTISY CUP WINNERS

REST OF THE WORLD

ISSUE 68

CLUB CHAMPION

SANJAY DHANDSA

OPEN WINNER EMIRATES SENIORS

VENEET MOHAN

2

I

Editorial

am writing this on the afternoon of Monday 24th April, having played in our ladies’ competition this morning. My morning went as follows….got to the Club and bumped into Barney who took one look at me and said, You won’t get it today but for sure tomorrow!” On to the Spike Bar for the much needed coffee before playing where Craig was having a quiet breakfast…until he saw me. “Before you say anything…I will be onto this today”, and I hadn’t even said a word! Then it was over to check-in desk for the competition where I saw Rhys, who really wanted to steer clear of me but didn’t and after the usual morning greetings and again, without me even mentioning anything he said, “All under control - it will be with you tomorrow”. From there it was down to the driving range where I saw Lady Captain Maura of course and her first words were, “I have nearly finished it, but I won’t send it until Thursday after the Curtisy Cup, if that’s OK?” Of course, all of this was about Club Life…. but I definitely get the impression that key people at the Club dread seeing me during the last week of the month! All good fun and, in fairness, every contributor gets his or her material in on time without too many reminders and I am very grateful to everyone for the time and effort taken to put together the updates from each department. Thanks very much to all of you.

Many thanks to Barney for the acknowledgement at the Members’ Party for the work I do for the magazine and likewise from Maura on her Captain’s Day and from Vipen at the Captains’ Dinner; Club Management support this magazine whole-heartedly but I must give credit to Eugene Inso at Dubai Golf Publishing for his hard work in doing the lay-out and design of Club Life; not only that, but he is extremely patient and hard-working and never complains about all the last minute changes. Just before printing, it seems I am sending Eugene dozens of emails with edits which he takes all in his stride. Thanks also to Ganesh who is very supportive and to the entire team in the department.

What a year it has been for the Captains, Vipen and Maura…non stop in fact but, even though it has been hectic, it is very obvious that both Captains have enjoyed their roles this year. It is such an honour and a privilege to be Captain of the biggest and best Club in the region but it’s important to have fun too. That only comes when you are interactive with the members and when you throw yourself into the role. Thanks to both of you for all you have done throughout the season to make it a most enjoyable one for members, colleagues and hopefully for yourselves too. It is always a pleasure to meet Vipen and Maura who make time to speak to as many members as possible.

You have been fantastic Captains and Ambassadors and we need not even ask if you enjoyed it - it shows!

Some highlights from last month, all featured in this month’s issue include the Guinness Book of Records attempt at the Gurudwara Sikh Temple in Dubai, headed by Surender Kandhari and family, Hankook Greensomes, Men’s Club Championship, Curtisy Cup, Seniors Open and Past Captains’ dinner..a busy month indeed.

Finally, throughout the season, our colleagues work tirelessly to ensure that we enjoy every aspect of the Club - reception, golf reservations, Fit Lab, driving range, bag storage, bag drop, marshals, The Academy, Golf Operations and all the catering outlets; we have some amazing colleagues who stand out for their hard work and dedication. Thank you!

Jacqui

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

Saeed Ahamed

Chef Nicholas Cuomo

Financial Controller mahamed@dubaigolf.com

Ganesh Mangathil

Dubai Golf Publishing Manager gmangathil@dubaigolf.com

Steen Simon

Food & Beverage Manager ssimon@dubaigolf.com

Executive Chef ncuomo@dubaigolf.com

Adele Cowgill

Head of Sales and Marketing acowgill@dubaigolf.com

Haridas Palliyalil

Resident Engineer hpalliyalil@dubaigolf.com

Stephen Deane

Head Academy Professional sdeane@dubaigolf.com

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

Rhys James

Golf Services Manager rjames@dubaigolf.com

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 37,363 likes.

Follow us on Twitter @emiratesgc and Instagram @emiratesgc

A

The Majlis and the Faldo courses have played very well throughout the season and I must congratulate Craig and his team for the great job done.

Time flies and I actually do not know where the last 21 months have gone as Vice-Captain and Captain of Emirates Golf Club, but I will tell you a little bit more about my experience in the next issue of Club Life.

Until then, happy golfing.

3 Captain’s Message

Dear Friends,

s the month of April comes to an end and temperatures are already at 40° C, I am sure most of us will be making our travel plans for the summer.

April had some interesting tournaments, namely the Hankook Greensomes, Kohlman Nations Cup and the Emirates Seniors, all of which had a full house and were enjoyed by members of Emirates Golf Club and other golfers from the UAE. The golf has been competitive and enjoyable at all these events which I was lucky to play in.

Vipen Sethi Club Captain 2016-2017

MEN’S COMPETITION RESULTS CLUB CHAMPION 2017 31st March & 1st April 2017

SANJAY DHANDSA – EMIRATES GOLF CLUB CLUB CHAMPION 2017

C

ongratulations to Sanjay Dhandsa who won this year’s Club Championship with a score of 148 (+4) over two rounds on the Faldo and Majlis courses. With his win, Sanjay topped the field of 55 beating Rohit Gupta and Kooros Daneshvar by three shots to second and third place respectively.

Sanjay led the tournament wire-to-wire having shot 74 on the Faldo course on day one. However, Sanjay’s lead was slender as Kooros Daneshvar was hot on his heels after a 75 on what was a day of tough scoring on the Faldo. Rakesh Shah eventually won best gross honours on the day after a very impressive 76, and Qamar Rasheed won best net after a oneunder par 71.

Day two saw more favourable conditions for play on the Majlis course. Notably, Veneet Mohan and Cody Isles saw vast improvements in their scores, having both scored 18 strokes better on day two compared with their efforts on the previous round! Paul Valcovics made an early charge through the field, claiming best gross on the day with a superb 74 to finish 14 over par in total, starting the day at tied 18th and finishing tied 6th overall. Best net on the day went to Asim Arshad who crafted a very fine score of net 68 to take the prize.

In addition, there were overall prizes for Division B and Division A. After two scores of net 74 and net 72, Wookhwan Kim finished runner-up in Division B losing to overall winner Tauseef Khan who scored consecutive net 72s to finish even par to win the Division. Division A was also tightly contested, with Surjit Namli winning the division with scores of net 71 and 69 to finish four-under par, beating Rajinder Razdan by one stroke after scores of net 67 and net 74.

The main prize was between seven players however, all starting day two within three strokes off Sanjay’s lead. Day two saw Rajinder Razdan, Rakesh Shah and Aditiya Judge fade away from the leading pack. The Club Championship was soon contested between four players, with Surjit Namli posting an excellent score of 75 to hold the clubhouse lead at 152, eightover par. Sanjay was able to maintain his lead, scoring oneunder par on his back nine to beat Rohit Gupta and Kooros Daneshvar by two strokes, becoming Emirates Golf Club’s 29th Club Champion.

Congratulations to all prize winners on the day, especially to Sanjay Dhandsa for his win, and special thanks to ProSports for supporting the event.

Winner Sanjay Dhansda, Club Vice Captain Ivan Fornazaric and Golf Services Manager Rhys James.

2017 Club Champion: Sanjay Dhandsa Runner-up: Rohit Gupta Third: Kooros Daneshvar Best Gross Day 1: Rakesh Shah Best Gross Day 2: Paul Valkovics Best Net Day 1: Qamar Rasheed Best Net Day 2: Asim Arshad DIVISION A (Handicaps 0 –9) Winner: Surjit Namli Runner-up: Rajinder Razdan DIVISION B (Handicaps 10-24) Winner: Tauseef Khan Runner-up: Wookhwan Kim

Gross Gross Gross Gross Gross Net Net

74 + 74 = 148 76 + 75 = 151 75 + 76 = 151 76 74 71 68

Gross 71 + 69 = 140 Gross 67 + 74 = 141 Gross 72 + 72 = 144 Gross 74 + 72 = 146

4 KOHLMAN NATIONS CUP Competition Results

Friday 14th April 2017

Winners:

Runners-up:

Third:

Fourth:

Paul Byrne, Frank Duggan, Malcolm Clarke, Owen Clarke Nitin Kripalani, Surjit Namli,v Gaurav Verma, Prateek Kumar Achal Ghai, Jugwinder Brar, Gurjit Grewal, Rajesh Sethi Mukesh Kochar, Mohamed Hadi, Sudesh Aggarwal, K.J. Singh

KOHLMAN INVITEES Winners: Abdullah Al Karam, Mohammed Darwish,

Khaled Al Bustani, Gurbax Singh SPECIAL EVENTS Nearest the Pin in 2: Nearest the Pin: Nearest the Pin in 2: Straightest Drive: Longest Drive: Nearest the Pin:

Hole Hole Hole Hole Hole Hole

#2: #4: #6: #10: #12: #15:

Zaigham Haque Anil Kumar Peter Jamieson P.J.Vogel Paul Byrne Viren Verma

PUTTING CHALLENGE Winners: Gaurav Verma

Congratulations to the winning nation of the 2017 Kohlman Nations Cup. Representing Ireland, and with a score of 89 points, was Paul Byrne and Frank Duggan (pictured) and Malcolm and Owen Clarke.

A big thank you to Moshe Kohli for his continued support. What a day!

89 Points 87 Points 86 Points 86 Points

75 Points

OMA EMIRATES MEDAL CHAMPIONSHIP Friday 28th April 2017

P

avan Nihalani scored a superb five-under par net 67 to win the OMA Emirates April Monthly Medal.

Pavan’s score saw him also top A Division from runner-up Marcus Wallman and third place David Thompson, Marcus having also shot 67 net but narrowly missing out on a scorecard playoff over the last three holes! A solid round of 71 net was good enough for David to claim the third place prize.

A very strong field of 95 players turned out for the tournament. Leading B Division on the day was Iain Everingham, with an excellent score of 69 net. In second place

A DIVISION (Handicaps 0-10) Winner: Pavan Nihalani Runner-up: Marcus Wallman Third: David Thompson Best Gross: Rohit Gupta B DIVISION (Handicaps 11-20) Winner: Iain Everingham Runner Up: Craig Dunn Third: Anand Lakhiani C DIVISION (Handicaps 21-28) Winner: Mohit Khatwani STABLEFORD EVENT Winner: Varun Sood

CLASH OF THE TITANS Thursday 13th April 2017 CHAMPIONS: EMIRATES GOLF CLUB Emirates Golf Club: 400 Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club: 382 Nearest the Pin 7th Hole: 15th Hole:

Surjit Namli David Waite

This event, a battle between teams from Emirates Golf Club and Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club took place last month on our home course, which resulted in a convincing win for Emirates Golf Club team. Well done to all players.

was Craig Dunn, one shot further back with 70 net claiming the runner-up spot with a better back nine score over Anand Lakhiani, who also carded a net 70 on the Majlis course.

Rohit Gupta carded an amazing gross score of 3 under par, 69, the lowest score recorded in a Medal this season winning the overall best gross prize for the tournament. Mohit Khatwani won C Division with a solid net 71 score.

The winner in the Men’s Stableford competition, run in conjunction with the Medal, was Varun Sood with a score of

67 Net 67 Net 71 Net 69 Gross 69 Net 70 Net 70 Net 71 Net 32 Points

5 Competition Results

Pavan Nihalani Wins the OMA Emirates April Medal

In association with

32 points. Nearest the pin on the 7th hole went to Dileep Kumar, who came within inches of winning the Porsche sponsored prize with a near miss for a hole-in-one.

Emirates Golf Club welcomed a new sponsor for the OMA Men’s Medal series, the fantastic Jean-Georges Dubai restaurant based at The Four Seasons Hotel at Jumeirah Beach, Jumeirah 2. The winners on the day will now be treated to a fine-dining experience courtesy of JeanGeorges Vongerichten, a chef who has earned three Michelin stars.

in’s Lady Capta Message

6

W

hat an amazing start to the month of April with our Omega Dubai Desert Classic Champion Sergio Garcia winning the Masters. It was a thrilling final round with Sergio securing a birdie at the first extra playoff hole to beat Justin Rose in a very competitive but mutually respectful manner - it was also a fine display of sportsmanship between the two Ryder Cup colleagues. So, as I previously wished for in my February message, we can look forward to Sergio returning for next year’s Desert Classic with his own green jacket.

Even though our tournament calendar is drawing to a close, April was crampacked with golfing and social events.

So, for a change, I have written a diary of the events I have taken part in: Monday 3rd April: Monthly Medal and the final opportunity for the ladies to earn Curtisy Cup points for our annual tournament on 26th April, Europe v Rest of the World.

Wednesday 5th April: Ingrid Sjodoff’s Farewell golf competition and lunch in Le Classique. Over 40 ladies took part and Ingrid presented fabulous traditional Swedish gifts to the winners. She is a very popular and gentle lady who will be missed by all in the ladies’ section.

Friday 7th & Saturday 8th April: Hankook Greensomes when I partnered my husband Frank, in what is a very tough format - alternate shots after the better drive is chosen. There were a few ‘sorries’ exchanged but no fighting! Congratulations to Glory Xavier and her daughter Hannah on triumphing over a strong field of 158 players.

Sunday 9th April: Captains’ Dinner in Le Classique for past, present and incoming Captains. Continuing with tradition, the incoming Vice-Captains received their green jackets from the current Vice-Captains and the incoming Captains received their jackets from the current Captains - a wonderful tradition with 23 past Captains/Lady Captains in attendance.

Monday 10th April: Ladies’ Easter Team Competition plus the coveted prize for the best Easter bonnet. The millinery talent in the ladies’ section is remarkable with hats on display that would not look out of place at the Dubai World Cup. The creation by Haide Wright and her team of Yana Jamieson, Ingrid Lind and Christiane Sprunck resulted in them being the unanimous winners although it was very difficult job for our judges Rhys, Will and Cian!

Tuesday 11th April: 29th Annual Colleagues’ Party held in Emirates Central; this year’s theme was Hawaiian, which resulted in a bright, colourful and relaxed evening. Part of the job description of Lady Captain is to act as a judge for the cabaret performances on the night, along with Vipen, Najla and Rekha (who was in attendance to present a cheque for the Junior Colleagues’ Fund which was money raised at the 25th Indian Invitational last month). With seven very talented performances it was a tough task! Great excitement ensued when the F&B team was announced as the winning act with their incredible dance routine.

Thursday 13th April: Clash of The Titans on the Majlis. Najla and I played against the Dubai Creek Yacht & Golf Club team of Professional Stephen Hubner and their Club Captain, Mansour Khodjasteh. Our match was all square going down the 18th hole but thankfully girl power prevailed and we won the final hole and the match.

Emirates Golf Club team claimed the trophy and reduced the deficit Dubai Creek Yacht & Golf Club created to 9-4.

Friday 14th April: Kohlman Nations Cup. Past Captain Moshe Kohli has been out of Dubai a lot this year so it was lovely to see him again host another very successful and fun day. I also had the pleasure of presenting first prize to Team Ireland which included my husband Frank.

Saturday 15th: Mixed Easter Scramble 2017 was declared ‘Year of Giving’ by the UAE Government. However, at Emirates Golf Club every year is a ‘Year of Giving’ with AED 200,000 donated

by Club members since October 2016; • AED 58,000 for Breast Cancer charity • AED 36,000 from the Christmas Scramble for the Junior Colleagues’ Fund • AED 53,000 from the auction held during the Annual Members’ Party (50% split between charity and junior colleagues) • AED 50,000 raised by the Indian Invitational committee for the Junior Colleagues’ Fund Also many thanks for the donations of essential items for the Labourers’ Community, with over 120 parcels having been distributed.

Sunday 16th - 22nd: my April holiday in Marrakech This photo was taken at Sir Richard Branson’s Moroccan Retreat in the Atlas Mountains

Monday 24th April: Two Player Scramble/ Greensome Challenge The Ladies prepared for the Curtisy Cup matches with a Scramble on the front nine and Greensomes on the back nine. Three teams scored a magnificent total

of 48 points with Haide Wright and Shiba Khan winning on a count-back over the last three holes.

Monday 24th April: Member’s Consultative Committee Meeting The minutes of all the season’s MCC meetings are posted on the Member Zone. Please have a look and see how many action points have been implemented this year.

Monday 24th April: New Members’ Evening Barney hosted a drinks and canapés evening to provide new members with the opportunity to meet Club Management, Golf Professionals and members of the Consultative Committee. There was a large turnout of 40 new members and it was a very relaxed evening on M’s Terrace.

We also discovered some new lady members and beginners who will hopefully join the ladies’ section next season.

Wednesday 26th April: Curtisy Cup This was the 26th Curtisy Cup competition between Europe and the Rest of the World and again, this highly anticipated day didn’t disappoint! After the morning Greensomes, Rest of the World led by 5.5 to 3.5 so Europe knew they needed to win some early matches in the afternoon betterball matches.

However Rest of the World, with their strongest ever Curtisy Cup team, turned the scoreboard red and clinched their first trophy since 2012. Well done to both Captains, Annette Carstanjen and Veronica Elias for continuing the tradition and spirit that makes this the most popular tournament on the ladies’ calendar. Celebrations continued into the night with both teams toasting the Rest of the World’s success!

Saturday 29th April: Legacy Prime Members’ Pro Am This was my last opportunity to qualify for the final which will be held on the 12th May. This competition has been a huge success this year with over-subscribed entries for each event Before I sign off I would like to congratulate the Inter-Club Challenge team who travelled to Abu Dhabi whilst I was on holidays. Our Emirates ladies beat all 11 teams on the day to win ‘Ladies ICC Final 2017 Daily Team Prize’. Unfortunately we missed being one of the finalists on the day by the narrowest of margins- a single stableford point!

With the temperatures soaring be sure to keep hydrated whilst on the course!

Maura Duggan Lady Captain 2016-2017

LADIES’ COMPETITION RESULTS

7

Sponsored By

MONTHLY MEDAL

C

ongratulations to Maria Petre who won the April Medal, presented by Sofitel Jumeirah Beach. Her score of net 64 on the Majlis course topped the field of 54 by an impressive three strokes on what was an excellent day of scoring.

Silver A Division was strongly contested and was won by Ingrid Lind with a net 67. Runner-up in A Division was Christiane Sprunck, one stroke back with net a 68. Overall best gross went to Maria Victoria Arias with a very respectable score of 80.

Silver B Division was claimed by Maria Petre after her excellent net 64, beating Martha Wong who shot a net 69. Bronze Division was won by Michele Carlsson after a very solid score of net 70.

Silver A Divison: Handicaps 0-14 Winner: Ingrid Lind Runner-up: Christiane Sprunck Best Gross : Maria Victoria Arias Silver B Divison: Handicaps 15-23 Winner : Maria Petre Runner-up: Martha Wong Bronze Divison: Handicaps 24-36 Winner : Michele Carlsson Raffle Winner: Christiane Sprunck Junior Divison Winner: Hannah Cheryl Alan Best Gross Debbie Chang

67 Net 68 Net 80 Gross 64 Net 69 Net

Competition Results

Maria Petre wins the April Medal

70 Net 65 Net 75 Gross

As a new edition to the Monthly Medal, a junior category was introduced to recognise some of the emerging talent in the section. Hannah Cheryl Alan won the net prize with an astonishing net 65, whilst Emirates Golf Club Champion Debbie Chang shot 75 to win the best gross prize.

Congratulations to all prize winners and a very special thank you to Sofitel Jumeirah Beach for their continued support of the Ladies’ Monthly Medals.

Hannah Cheryl Alan

Christiane Sprunck

Maria Victoria Arias

Martha Wong

Debbie Chang

Winner Maria Petre, Lady Captain Maura Duggan, Florance Stankova from Sofitel and Golf Services Manager Rhys James.

Ingrid Lind

Michele Carlsson

EASTER SCRAMBLE Monday 10th April 2017 Winners: Jenny Isles, Margaret Breen, Sandra Chia, Swati Singh 92 Runners-up: Rekha Bandopadhyay, Connie Sayal, Rena Sethi, Amarjeet Radia 89 Third: Josie Tracey, Elvira Smith, Selma Kehoe, Noemy Bertuol 89 Best Easter Bonnet: Haide Wright, Yana Jamieson, Ingrid Lind, Christianne Sprunck Nearest The Pin Hole # 8: Silver Division Handicaps 0-18: Connie Sayal Hole # 12 (Bronze Division, Handicaps 19-36: Danielle Dols Longest Drive Hole # 10 Bronze Division, Handicaps 19-36: Sulafa Hamdan Hole #16 Silver Division Handicaps 0-18: Mitsuko Emmerson

Best Easter Bonnet

Third

Winners

Runners-up

8

BLIND PARTNERS Monday 17th April 2017

Competition Results

Winners:

Mags Breen, Cathy Lajotte

78 Points

Runners-up: Caroline Granger, Mini Philip

76 Points

Third:

76 Points

T

Viv Caley, Noemy Bertuol

INTER-CLUB AND BEGINNERS

uesday 18th of April saw 10 of our ladies travel to Abu Dhabi National Golf Club to play in the Inter-Club final. Although we were not one of the four finalist teams, we were playing for best team on the day against the other seven teams who also failed to qualify for the final.

Our ladies braved extremely hot weather, high humidity, diseased greens and a round that lasted more than five hours to win the day’s event. Not only did they win but their overall score beat Abu Dhabi National (who won the final) by a staggering 19 points.

A special mention must go to Glory Xavier who won first prize, Christiane Sprunk third prize and Martha Wong fourth prize. The atmosphere in the bus on the way back was very joyful and the team spirit and camaraderie was felt throughout the day!

CURTISY CUP

H

aving not won the Curtisy Cup since 2012, Rest of the World team was determined to rectify this in 2017 and rectify it they did!. After the morning Greensomes session, Rest of the World were leading 5.5 to 3.5. In the afternoon Betterball session, they upped their game even more and were relentless, winning all their matches except for the last match which was undecided; Rest of the World had already won overall by this stage, so there seemed little point in playing the last two holes, instead favouring a celebratory drink with both teams who were gathered around the 16th and 18th. Congratulations to Rest of the World team, captained by Veronica Elias and commiserations to Europe, captained

by Annette Carstanjen. It was an excellent day, played fairly and with good sportsmanship and camaraderie.

This was the 26th official Curtisy Cup event and it has gone from strength to strength over the years. Eligibility is through Order of Merit points earned from the Monthly Medals; everone’s aim at the beginning of the season is to play well enough in Medals to qualify for the Curtisy Cup in April which has resulted in an increase in numbers of ladies competing in Medal events.

by Najla Bartette

Back in the Club on the same day we had our beginners’ Easter Scramble.

The teams consisted of three beginners and one lady from the Monday morning compeitions. The event was supervised by our Vice-Captain elect Sulafa Hamdan and was played over nine holes.

Four teams competed and first prize went to Gema Blanco, Margaret Campbell, HyeJung Kim (Ester) and April Prestwidge. The ladies came back to the Spike Bar for the prize-giving where some surprise treats were waiting for them prepared by our F&B assistant Miles and Chef Siri. The best Easter Bonnet prize was won by Nahyun Han! Special thanks to Veronica Elias, Amarjeet Radia and Mags Breen who played with our beginners.

9

p

Curtisy Cu

PAIRS CHALLENGE Monday 24th April 2017

C

Competition Results

10

ongratulations to Haide Wright and Shiba Khan, the winners of the Pairs Challenge with a great score of 48 points beating two other pairs also on the same score In a very exciting format where the teams of two played a scramble on the front nine and greensomes on the back nine.

The runners-up, missing out on a scorecard playoff on the back three holes, were Naima Maya and Martha Wong. Third place finishers, also missing out on a scorecard playoff, this time over the back 9, were Monica Palao and Gema Blanco.

Winners Haide Wright Shiba Khan 48 Points

Runners-up Naima Maya Martha Wong 48 Points

Third Monica Palao Gemma Blanco 48 Point

MIXED COMPETITION RESULTS EMIRATES SENIORS OPEN Friday 21st & Saturday 22nd April 2017

C

ongratulations to Veneet Mohan who won the Emirates Seniors Open with a total combined score of 75 points over the Faldo and Majlis courses.

The two-day event was well contested with Veneet claiming a three point victory over Masoud Sobati from the Montgomerie Golf Club. Club Captain Vipen Sethi finished in third place on 70 points, beating Jignesh Sangani to fourth after a better-back 18 points total.

Joumana Petridis won the ladies’ division after a combined total of 66 points beating Brenda Hill from Doha Golf Club. Andrew Robinson and Tauseef Khan both won daily prizes for the best stableford score on the Faldo and Majlis respectively.

Congratulations to all prize winners.

Champion: Veneet Mohan (EGC) 36 + 39 = 75 Points Runner-up: Masoud Sobati (TMD) 37 + 35 = 72 Points Third: Vipen Sethi (EGC) 35 + 35 = 70 Points Fourth: Jignesh Sangani (EGC) 37 + 33 = 70 Points LADIES DIVISION Champion: Joumana Petridis (EGC) 34 +32 = 66 Points Runner-up: Brenda Hill (DGC) 32 +32 = 64 Points

MIXED EASTER SCRAMBLE Saturday, 15th April 2017

Winners: Nitin Kripalani, Surjit Namli,

Gaurav Verma, Priyam Godiwala Runners-up: Paul Byrne, Darren Cole,

Keith Prosser, Ian Scott Third: Anil Kumar, Wahid Hamid,

Asif Raza, Zaigham Haque Nearest the Pin Hole # 4 (Men): Achal Ghai Nearest the Pin # 11 (Ladies): Ingrid Lind Nearest the Pin # 15 (Men): Mike Tracey Nearest the Pin Hole # 7 (Ladies): Janine Dols Longest Drive # 16 (Ladies): Viv Caley Longest Drive # 12 (MenS): Parit Mehta

57 58 58

DAILY PRIZES Day 1 (Best Stableford Score): Day 2 (Best Stableford Score):

Andrew Robinson Tauseef Khan (EGC)

C

ongratulations to the winners of our annual Easter Scramble competition. A fantastic team score of 57 strokes net saw the team of Nitin Kripalani, Surjit Namli, Guarav Verma and Priyam Godiwala claim the tournament.

Runners-up in the four-man team scramble, with a score of 58 strokes net and with a better back 9, was the team of Paul Byrne, Darren Cole, Keith Prosser and Ian Scott. Also on 58 strokes net but finishing in third place was the team of Anil Kumar, Wahid Hamid, Asif Raza and Zaigham Haque.

On-course prizes were contested for and won by Achal Ghai for nearest the pin on hole 4. Janine Dols was the winner on hole 7, Ingrid Lind picked up the prize on hole 11 and Mike Tracey won nearest the pin on hole 15. On the 12th hole, Parit Mehta won the men’s longest drive and Viv Caley was the ladies’ longest drive winner on hole 16.

Several kind and generous donations were made by members of our Club in aid of the Labourers’ Community here in Dubai with over 160 packages being donated. Also, Jacqui & Tom Barry donated some wonderful raffle prizes for the Easter Scramble draw - fantastic continued support shown as always.

37 Points 38 Points

11

GREENSOMES CHAMPIONSHIP Friday 7th and Saturday, 8th April 2017

Runners-up with a net total score of 134 was the father and son pairing of Ashish

and Suvansh Arora, also with the same total score, but missing out on the second round count-back. In third place were Bayar Khan and Arshad Khan. Climbing up the leaderboard with a fantastic second round score on the Majlis was the duo of Andrew and Wendy Robinson with a net total score of 135.

The overall best gross prize was won by Emirates Golf Club juniors Bradley Mogire and Connor Forbes, the youngsters combining to post scores of 76 on the Faldo

Champions: Runners-up: Third: Fourth: Overall Best Gross: Best Gross Runner-up: Best net Day 1: Best Net Day 2: Day 1 Nearest the Pin Hole # 2: Nearest the Pin Hole # 12: Longest Drive Hole # 16: Day 2 Nearest the Pin Hole # 4: Nearest the Pin Hole # 15: Longest Drive Hole # 12:

followed by 70 on the Majlis course for a total of 146. Runners-up in the gross division were Emirates Golf Club members, Shane Wilson and Sanjay Dhandsa, who scored rounds of 74 and 74 for a total score of 148.

Our thanks go to Mr. Surender Kandhari and Mr. Sungwook Kang from Hankook and Al Dobowi for hosting such a fantastic tournament.

Glory Xavier & Hannah Alan Suvansh Arora & Ashish Arora Bayar Khan & Arshad Khan Andy & Wendy Robinson Bradley Mogire & Connor Forbes

65 + 58 = 123 70 + 64 = 134 65 + 69 = 134 72 + 63 = 135 76 + 70 = 146

Sanjay Dhandsa & Shane Wilson Shiba Khan & Harjiv Oberoi Luiz & Noemy Bertoul

74 + 74 = 148 64 66

J S Khan Deborah Chang Amber Waite Mitsuko Emmerson Selma Kehoe Shravan Khanna

Competition Results

C

ongratulations to Glory Xavier and Hannah Alan, the new 2017 winners of the Hankook Greensomes Championship. The 18th staging of this fantastic event received incredible support with over 170 players in the field. The Emirates Golf Club female duo combined wonderfully over the Faldo and the Majlis courses for a 123 net total to lift the Champions’ trophy.

BOOK OF GUINNESS ATTEMPT RECORDS

12

GURUDWARA GURU NANAK

DUBAI ACHIEVES A GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS TITLE FOR ‘MOST NATIONALITIES HAVING A CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST’

13th April 2017, Dubai Breakfast proved to be the most important meal of the day on April 13th for Gurudwara Guru Nanak Darbar Dubai. The Sikh temple successfully hosted breakfast for 101 different nationalities and is now the official and proud Guinness World Record title holder of ‘Most nationalities having a Continental breakfast’ The chief guest of the event was the Indian Ambassador to the UAE, H.E. Navdeep Singh Suri. Also in attendance were top officials from UAE government agencies and Mr. Frode Mauring of the United Nations.

Also present were dignitaries and diplomats from Australia, Canada, Chile, Fiji, India, Mexico, Philippines, Serbia, Switzerland, Sri Lanka, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States of America, Peru, Vietnam, Romania and Kenya.

It was indeed a diverse crowd representing sectors of the business community, government agencies, and various social communities gathered together over breakfast in an elegant tent setting. Speakers at the event resonated the importance of harmony and unity in diversity best exemplified in the UAE. The virtue of giving was also emphasised by some of the speakers.

“Sikhism has always embraced diversity as it has been part of our faith and belief that we are all human beings to be treated with respect. Gurudwara has been spearheading charity and volunteer work, not only for the Indian community, but for the entire UAE community as well. We feel blessed to give in any form or in kind as this is our way of

selfless service to society” said Surender Kandhari, Chairman of Gurudwara Guru Nanak Darbar Dubai.

Women and children were also represented at the event. This momentous gathering attracted more than 600 participants and was an outstanding platform that showcased positive values towards diversity.

Gurudwara Guru Nanak Darbar Dubai organised the event with the help of volunteers from the Sikh congregation and the Indian community.

About Gurudwara On 17th January 2012, the largest Gurudwara in the Gulf region was declared open for over 50,000 devotees in UAE. The Guru Nanak Darbar is a multi-storey facility spread over 100,000 sq.ft in Jebel Ali Gardens, Dubai. The ultra-modern Gurudwara is a rare piece of architectural design, a blend of modern and traditional building style. It welcomes all within its warm embrace, irrespective of caste or creed, bringing peace, solace, and hope.

13 Club Mana

CLUB MANAGER’S REPORT

by Barney Coleman

In my opening paragraph in the March update I stated, “We will be looking out for Sergio in the Majors this coming season. I am sure I wasn’t the only one to stay awake until 4.00am to see our Omega Dubai Desert Classic Champion perform magnificently on the Sunday afternoon at Augusta to win his first Major. Hats off to Sergio for a remarkable achievement and it was excellent to witness our second consecutive Omega Dubai Desert Classic Champion go on to win the coveted green jacket (Danny Willett won the 2016 Omega Dubai Desert Classic followed by the 2016 US Masters). Who will make it third time lucky next year!?

During March, Sanjay Dhandsa clinched the Club Championship; congratulations to him as he joins junior Deborah Chang who are our current male and female Club Champions.

Most of our Club Matchplay titles of the season have been settled; congratulations to Najla Bartette and Martha Wong for clinching the Omega Ladies Pairs Matchplay Championship, to Ian Scott and Darren Cole, Omega Men’s Pairs Matchplay winners, to Jayshree Gupta, Omega Ladies Singles Matchplay Champion, to Jignesh Sangani, the Omega Men’s Singles Matchplay Champion.

Thank you all for your support of such a busy events calendar including: • 25th Indian Invitational – a massive thank you for raising AED 50,000 for

Dear Members, For the upcoming OMA Emirates Medal in association with JeanGeorges Dubai we will be introducing a trial ‘Medalford’ format.

A Medalford format is when each player begins the round attempting to complete each hole for an 18 hole Medal score. However, if a player has a bad hole and cannot complete that hole, he would continue the round playing a stabelord format, and his score will automatically be included in the stableford category for a chance to win a prize.

the Junior Colleagues’ Fund. Surender, Vipen, Rekha and Jayshree were the driving force for this anniversary event so well done to them!

• Members’ Party • Vipen’s Captain’s Day followed by Maura’s ‘Irish themed’ celebration • Hankook Greensomes • Kohlman Nations Cup • Easter Scramble • Emirates Seniors Open • Legacy Prime Pro-Am Cup (the total number of members who played in the six qualifying rounds was 160; thank you to Achal and Jugwinder for your support of this popular series) SUMMER COURSE OPENING TIMES Please note from 2nd May the Majlis course 1st tee will open at 6.00am; in addition the 10th tee will open from 6.00am to 7.30am for 9 holes only. The Faldo will continue to operate as normal from 6:45 except during Majlis closures.

SUMMER CLOSING DATES Majlis course 11th - 15th June 30th July - 3rd August 29th October - 2nd November (annual overseeding) Faldo Course 21st - 25th May 9th - 13th July FALDO COURSE – UPDATE (HOLE 13) The team has been working on the long-term design of the 13th hole of our Faldo course. When the Faldo course was opened, this hole played as a par 5, but due to a number of safety issues in relation to the villas on the left of the hole, it was reduced to a short par 4.

The only conditions are that a player will not be able to win both, and the emphasis for main prizes will still be the Medal. However, we hope that this new initiative will encourage more members to take part and enjoy the challenge of playing in a Club competition.

Date of Next Event…

The next OMA Emirates Medal in association with Jean-Georges Dubai will take place on Friday 19th May, 7.30am and 1.30pm shotguns on the Majlis course.

If you feel this is a good idea, then please tell your fellow members

The original Par 5 was a popular hole with the majority of the membership; during May, members will have the option to play the hole as a Par 5. A four-week trial period will be in operation for members to test the hole and for the Club to establish if the safety concerns have been resolved by the below actions:

ger

S

ince my last update it has been an extremely busy period at the Club and it has been great to see so many golf tournaments and social events well attended.

• Tee boxes realigned to the centre of the fairway • Safety net has been replaced and extended further out • Out of bounds line will move to the right of the cart path • Left of the fairway will be heavier rough • Palm trees have been placed next to the tee boxes to prevent wayward shots hitting the villas.

Please feel free to try this new tee box once it opens. Your feedback is most welcome and I suggest, for handicap purposes during this trial period, you deduct one shot upon entering a score for the 13th hole to account for the increased yardage.

The Roseleaf Café will open in May next to the entrance to Fit Lab overlooking the squash courts and it will offer a varied menu of home cooked, healthy food, juices and speciality coffees. In addition, UPANDRUNNING will take over the treatment rooms in Fit Lab from 1st May and we are delighted to welcome these fine brands and establishments to Emirates Golf Club to enhance your experience.

Warm Regards Barney Coleman

and regular playing partners. The competition is now open online to enter and we look forward to seeing you all on Friday 19th May. The introduction of the ‘Medalford’ was recently approved by Club Management, with the suggestion coming from the Members’ Consultative Committee. We would like to thank the MCC for their valued feedback and support of this new format.

Thank You Barney Coleman Club Manager

Junior Link

s

14

SPOTLIGHT ON…..

IAN HAMDAN

H

i my name is Ian Hamdan. I am from Lebanon and was born in Dubai on May 25th 2005. On that day Agassi was eliminated after a three hour match in the first round of the French Open against Nieminen. Would that be the reason why tennis is my favourite sport? I’ve been playing and competing in this game since the age of five. If they gave me a handicap in that game I would be a five or an eight for sure? As for golf, I have a 28 handicap… yes, not as good... , but I did enjoy my first ever tournament recently (the Legacy Prime Pro-Am) when I beat all the adult players in the nearest the pin event on hole 7 of the Majlis. Thanks to Jonathan Craddock who has been coaching me and who has made me enjoy the game! My favourite golf player is Henrik Stenson; Roger Federer is at the top of my list of best tennis players and Pasta Bolognese is my favourite lunch in the Spike Bar.

Take advantage of your Dubai Golf membership and enjoy summer golf in Muscat. Designed

by Greg Norman, the championship course at Almouj Golf provides a challenging 18 holes with breathtaking views of the Sea of Oman and the Hajar Mountains. Ranked as one of the top three golf courses in the Middle East by Golf Digest, Almouj Golf is also the host venue of the NBO Challenge Tour Golf Classic Grand Final.

Dubai Golf members are invited to enjoy complimentary midweek golf at Almouj Golf, Muscat or play on Fridays or Saturdays for just OMR 25 per player. In addition, enjoy complimentary access to the driving range and Par 3 course at the Academy as well as a 20% discount on all food and beverage purchased at Almouj Golf.

A short flight from Dubai, this is the ideal summer golfing destination!

Offer is valid from 1st June to 30th September 2017. Bookings can be made seven days in advance and are subject to availability.

For bookings and more information, please contact Marcus Casey on marcus@almoujgolf.com

Pro’s Tip of the Month

ESCAPING THE BUNKERS

Pro’s Tip

by GOLF Professional ALEX SHEDDEN

15

Bunker shots are usually something many people fear but in fact they are the easiest shots as we don’t even have to make contact with the ball!

Correct setup is extremely important to give you the best chance of escaping. Many people position the ball too far back in their stance causing them difficulties in getting a consistent strike.

In the picture I have drawn two lines in the sand, the first to help with alignment and the second for ensuring correct positioning of the ball in our stance which should be just inside our left heal allowing us to swing the club into the sand a few inches behind the ball.

One of the most common faults I see in the bunker is people being scared to hit the sand and commit to the shot, instead they try to scoop the ball out with a small swing not striking the sand. Let the club face lie a little more open and aim for a spot a couple inches behind the ball. The open club face will allow the club to slide underneath the ball and avoid excess digging.

Above you can see I have a wide stance to maintain my balance and stability allowing me to make a large backswing with a full follow through exploding the ball out on a pocket of sand.

Next time you are practising set up a practice station in the bunker as I have and see how you get on. If you require any help with your bunker play or any other area of you game please contact us at the Academy and we can help you get back on the right track!

SPORT2BUSIN

ESS

1vv6

S2B SOCIETY APRIL 2017 HIGHLIGHTS S

port2Business attendees in April continued to grow with an average of 36 players each Monday evening on the Faldo, with the majority staying to network at M’s until the early hours! This month included an away day at the Montgomerie, a society team event at Yas plus the final of the Conares event in Sharjah, in additional to our Monday night events.s.

Final Results of Eclectic 17, Top 10: (16th January – 10th April)

April Player of the Month:

SHIRAAZ JOOSUB

Shiraaz is the founder and CEO of Healthe-Solutions, a boutique consulting company that focuses on the design, build, commissioning and operations management of clinics and hospitals in the MENA region.

Sport2Business: Runners-up in the Conares Society Matchplay Championships, just falling shy in the Final. S2B have now managed 1st, 2nd and 3rd

place in the four years of the event. Well done to our team players, Captain Jorg Muller, Shiraaz Joosub, Peter Donaldson, Michael Lennon and Ron Barden!

He is also the founder and partner of a European fashion label (LIMERI) shared with his wife Lirije, with their flagship store and small manufacturing concern based in Macedonia.

His S2B achievements this month include securing the 17th Eclectic with a gross of 65 (61 net) over the 12 nine holes he played, plus shooting a magnificent 34 gross on the front 9 (9 putts would you believe!), helping the S2B team to reach the final of the Conares Society Matchplay tournament in Sharjah. Well done Shiraaz, a great month’s golf from a great guy!!

S2B hold co-sanctioned event at the Montgomerie with the Mazimba Golf Society • On 21st April 2017, Sport2Business and the Mazimbas took on the Montgomerie Golf course which featured some great sponsors’ prizes for the morning golf followed by a lively brunch at Nineteen!

• Top 6 Leaderboard:

1st

Donovan Ellis

36

2nd

Clive Mhende

34

3rd

Eddie Sibana

34

4th

Gilbert Mapanda

32

5th

James Yeomans

31

6th

Dave Minchin

30

• Nearest the pin on the 6th - Nick Lowes Nearest the pin on the 13th - Simon Earl Longest Drive on the 16th - James Yeomans • Overall the Mazimbas came out on top but we look forward to our next co-sanctioned event soon.

ESS

SPORT2BUSIN

17

April Monday Night Winners April 3rd: Back 9:

Dave Minchin

Roger Lee

18 points

Jon Vail

Colin Baxter

Colm O’Farrell

April 10th: Front 9:

Michael Lennon 22 points

April 17th: Back 9:

Peter Turner

21 points

April 24th: Front 9:

Dave Minchin

20 points

PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Page 1 of 2

SENSASIA URBAN SPA IS BLITZING THAT BLOAT WITH ITS ‘SENSCONSCIOUS’ MENU OF BEACH BODY-PREPPING PACKAGES

Many thanks to our sponsors

The summer sizzle has arrived, as those swimsuits begin to speak to us from beyond the dresser...

And with 13 years of body-sculpting expertise across its four Dubai locations, SensAsia Urban Spa has created the ultimate collection of treatments to blitz the bloat. Combining the most cutting edge beauty brands, active ingredients, technology and techniques with SensAsia’s unrivalled spa ‘journeys’, the UAE’s largest spa chain offers its thousands of clients a unique treatment menu to target individual body blips.

‘SensConscious’ by SensAsia includes both single treatments and longer-term packages, which can complement a healthy diet and exercise regime to increase energy, break down stubborn fat, smooth cellulite and boost beach body confidence for both men and women – when and where it’s needed most.

The Detox is the perfect choice for those embarking on a diet and/or exercise plan this summer. Low energy levels, lack of vitality, fluid retention, dull skin and persistent coughs and colds are all the body’s way of telling us we are carrying too many toxins. This highly effective detoxifying treatment begins with full body brushing to increase blood and lymphatic circulation, followed by SensAsia’s famous Hot Salt & Pepper Scrub. The body is then wrapped twice in succession, using specially-selected, powerful sea plant products from Elemis – including Elemis Cullutox Sage Fucus Puree, which combines pure unpolluted marine algae with detoxifying essential oils such as juniper and lemon. As the body is cocooned and the actives get to work, SensAsia therapists will conduct an express facial and scalp massage, before the treatment is completed by a vigorous, fat-attacking full body massage with Elemis Cullutox Active Body Oil.

Call to Action for EGC Members Should you be an existing or new member at Emirates Golf Club and you fancy joining us on a Monday night for some competitive roll-up golf followed by socialising in M’s, please contact James for more information.

Email: jyeomans@yeomansexecutive.com Tel: 0504816277

The Detox is available at all SensAsia Urban Spa locations and costs 795dhs.

Elemis Body Sculpting Cellulite & Colon Therapy is a high-impact, 75-minute massage to inject movement into a sluggish digestive system, relieve fluid retention, target cellulite… and turn the beach into a catwalk.

Congestion caused by poor circulation, fluid retention and a sluggish digestive system can lead to cellulite, bloating and toxic build up. This specialist massage – which SensAsia considers a no-mess, anxiety-free alternative to colonic irrigation – works at the deepest level of your problem spots, to flush and cleanse all three systems of the body, stimulate lymphatic drainage, break down fatty deposits and redefine the silhouette. A Fennel and Birch peel off body mask is also applied to help firm and smooth the skin, before a colon-cleansing abdominal massage helps to detoxify the body – working from the inside out.

Elemis Body Sculpting & Colon Therapy is available at all SensAsia Urban Spa locations and costs 540dhs.

We look forward to welcoming more Emirates Golf Club members to our society.

– more follows –

www.sensasiaspas.com

Sensasiaspas

SensAsia

sensasia_urban_spa

#SensAsia

RULES

Rules By R

hys

18

BY RHYS

EGF HANDICAPS, MEMBERS’ INFORMATION & RESPONSIBILITIES

I

n last month’s article I highlighted members’ obligations to maintain an active EGF handicap; now. to justify that article, I would like to explain some of the trends that we occasionally see throughout the Club.

• Please note, the committee will also check all tournament results and prize winners and naturally, any repeat winners will have their EGF accounts reviewed.

The aim of the committee is to ensure that EGC members are applying the EGF system correctly and consistently, resulting in more accurate handicaps and fairer competitions for all of our members to enjoy.

The EGC handicap committee has met on a few occasions this season. The role of the committee is to ensure that handicaps are an accurate reflection of a player’s current ability.

• The handicap should reflect the scores being recorded based upon the differential. The differential score takes into account the course slope rating and not just the course par.

• General game scores versus Tournament scores are also considered and checked.

In order to apply the system correctly: • Members must ensure that ALL GAMES are being registered, ALL General games and Tournament games MUST be recorded with accurate scores.

We have noticed a small trend throughout the membership that not all general games are being registered. This check is being done by comparing the

number of games on the Club’s tee time booking system against members’ EGF accounts.

Handicap Committee Communication If members of the committee become aware of any Club member not adhering to the EGF guidelines, they will be notified by email to advise them of how to correct this in the future. These emails are confidential and should be seen as friendly guidance. The EGF site is public so better to be informed by the committee rather than a fellow golfer/ member.

The Good News…

Here at Emirates Golf Club we are very pleased overall to see that our Medal competitions are won with scores on average of around 70.

WHAT SCORES WIN OUR MEDALS? Here is the average score of each handicap division that has featured in the prizes at our Men’s and Ladies’ Monthly Medal competitions this season.

OMA MEN’S MEDAL Divisional winners’ net scores Hcp 0-10 A Division: Hcp 11-20 B Division: Hcp 21-28 C Division:

72.4 71.3 76.7

HAVE YOU REGISTERED YOUR GAME???

A summary of key points to maintaining an active EGF handicap: 1. Every round of golf a member plays should be registered in the Golfers Card system with the following information: • The course played • The tees played • 9 or 18 holes • The category of game played (Tournament or General play) 2. When playing the game, golfers must always try to score as best they can.

SOFITEL LADIES’ MEDAL Divisional winners’ net scores Hcp 0-14 Silver A Division: Hcp 15-23 Silver B Division: Hcp 24+ Bronze Division:

3. An accurate score should be recorded in the Golfers Card system every time a game is played.

70.1 69.5 71.5

With these scores in mind, we are happy that our Medals are competed for fairly and we hope that this will encourage more members to take part in our Monthly Medals.

If you have any 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

4. If 13 or more holes are played, the player must post an 18 hole score.

If 7 to 12 holes are played, the player must post a 9 hole score.

In either case, scores for the holes not played must be recorded as par PLUS any handicap strokes that the player is entitled to receive on the holes not played (net par).

FORMATS OF PLAY: Please note that all games when you are playing your own ball for the entire round MUST be registered and the score recorded.

EXAMPLES OF WHEN YOU WOULD NOT REGISTER YOUR GAME WOULD BE: When playing a Scramble, Greensomes, or Foresomes format.

When you are playing by yourself with no other players to verify your score.

The EGC Handicap Committee thanks you for your cooperation.

We hope you enjoy your game.

T

he past few months have involved a lot of planning for what is to come this summer. This includes our scheduled aerification events across both properties and decisions with regards to exactly what we are going to do based on some key agronomical information such as the Organic Matter Content on surfaces. By knowing this information we can accurately account for the percentage that needs to be renovated year on year. Keep an eye out on our social media channels to follow our progress where we will be posting videos of our coring practices throughout the summer months!

We have enjoyed the best part of our golfing season with superb weather and conditioning throughout. Our annual transition from Ryegrass to Bermuda has already begun and signs at the moment are encouraging indeed. We have posted our transition video throughout our social media platforms so please be sure to look out and watch the informative clip that clearly explains the process involved, why it occurs and how we manage the process from start to finish.

“Make a difference today” is our company slogan. It is very defining and each individual

can hold themselves accountable. Each quarter we recognise individuals within our department who have made the biggest difference and they are recognised internally. I would like to congratulate Umar, Pepito, Elmer and Ramil for their continued hard work and dedication and for the difference they each made throughout the year. Congratulations.

The next five months is when this team certainly earn their weight in gold. It is not getting any cooler and the workload goes up another level. I am immensely proud of their consistent efforts at a difficult time of year with regards to climate.

Please feel free to wave hello and give them a thumbs up as you see them out on

I was fortunate to be part of the education of some younger, up and coming greenkeepers through the Elmwood Greenkeeping College. They have a programme being run out of Silver Lakes Country Club in South Africa and for the past two years we have supported their growth and development with the support of one of our key partners Textron Golf and Jacobsen. This year Justin and Wayne came out to develop their skills whilst supporting at the Omega Dubai Desert Classic. It was a great experience not only for them, but for Luke and for me as well. We were both there once and remember the excitement of being part of something as special as a tournament when first starting out with our careers. Giving back is certainly something we both enjoyed!

course. It means the world to them to be recognised for their efforts and every small gesture goes a long way!

RECIPROCAL CLUBS Emirates Golf Club now have a reciprocal arrangement with the K Club in Dublin, home of the 2006 Ryder Cup and the 2016 Dubai Duty Free Irish Open.

The K Club features two Arnold Palmer designed Championship Golf Courses.

Renowned for its superb golf, The K Club is recognised as one of Europe’s greatest golfing destinations. Offering golfers 36 of the most exciting and dramatic holes, The Ryder Cup Course and The Smurfit Course promise to challenge and excite golfers with treacherous rough, water hazards in abundance, long greens and undulating fairways.

Having celebrated 25 years in 2016, The K Club continues to go from strength to strength. Over the years, The K Club has hosted 13 European Opens, the 2006 Ryder Cup, and most recently the 2016 Irish Open.

It has also won countless accolades, most notably the CNN Top Ten Best Golf Resort

r’s Greenkeepe Cuttings

GREENKEEPER’S CUTTINGS

19

in the World, AA Hotel of the Year, and Best Golf Resort for the last 12 years in the Luxury World Travel Awards. Over €20million has been spent on the hotel in the last year with an extensive refurbishment programme covering the hotel, golf courses and clubhouses.

The K Club, Ireland’s First AA 5 Red Star Hotel, is located in the heart of the idyllic Irish countryside on the banks of the River Liffey in Straffan, Co.Kildare This long standing member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts offers the very best of pampering, leisure and golf facilities and is only 30 minutes from Dublin. Built in 1832, on the banks of the River Liffey, the original house was modelled on a French Château and still retains many of its original architectural features, artwork and antiques.

It opened as a luxury hotel in 1991 and was Ireland’s first AA Five Red Star Property.

To this day it continues to deliver the very

As always, Luke and I remain available should you need any explanation on practices or if you are simply interested in what we are up to on course. Manage yourselves by drinking fluids throughout your round and keeping to the shade as much as possible please!

Good golfing Craig Haldane Director - Golf Course Maintenance

highest levels of service and standards in terms of its food and beverage offerings, golf, leisure and spa treatments.

The mature estate covers an impressive 550 acres and also features a stunning Victorian walled garden and fishing on the River Liffey which runs through the resort. The resident ghillies offer fly fishing on the river and horse riding and clay pigeon shooting are also available along with a range of different country pursuits.

The K Spa, at The K Club, offers a wide variety of treatments for both men and women. It is an oasis of calm. The minimalist and contemporary décor sets the scene for pure indulgence and mind and body relaxation. The K Spa also features a secluded outdoor hot tub, aromatic herb garden, seven luxurious treatment rooms, two private suites, a Hamam, a Hydrobath, a Vichy Shower and an exotic Rasul Chamber.

Open Day

20

OPEN DAY We had fantastic day at The Academy! It was great to see so many people come down to try one of the many activities hosted by the team. We look forward to welcoming you back soon.

21

Meet Vincent, Fit Lab’s newest Personal Trainer!

Originally from Essex in the UK, Vincent has lived in Dubai for almost four years. He is certified in Golf Fitness and KO8 Suspension and Resistance Training.

Working closely with our Golf Professionals, he can provide sessions which closely follow the swing mechanics and ultimately improve your golf game. When he is not working, Vincent enjoys trail running, wakeboarding and football!

Hello Jerald, Starter/ Marshal at Emirates Golf Club! Jerald has been working at the Club for over six years and enjoys that his colleagues are his family here! Jerald enjoys getting out on the range to practise his golfing skills and when he is not at work he can be found playing billiards and video games, especially Call of Duty

WHAT’S ON IN MAY? Golf CalendaR • Monday 8th May, Ladies Modified Stableford (Individual Stableford) • Saturday 13th May, Junior Club Championship (Strokeplay) • Monday 15th May, Ladies Highs & Lows Competition (Team Stableford) • Wednesday 17th May, Member Colleague Scramble (Team Scramble) • Friday 19th May, OMA Emirates “Medalford” in association with JeanGeorges Dubai (strokeplay /stableford) - Full golfing members • Saturday 20th May, Legacy Prime Pro-Am Cup (Qualifiers Only) (Four Man Team Strokeplay) - Full golfing members • Monday 22nd May, Ladies Bluesomes Competition (Strokeplay) • Friday 26th May, Tournament of Champions (Qualifiers Only) (Men’s Strokeplay) - Full golfing members • Saturday 27th May, Captains Matchplay Challenge (Strokeplay) - Full golfing members - Register from 13th May • Monday 29th May, Ladies Tournament of Champions (Qualifiers Only) (Strokeplay) To register for an event, please visit the Members’ Zone. Should you want to modify or cancel, please contact Golf Reservations

Say hello to Chef Sri, one of our incredibly talented Chefs who has been working at Emirates Golf Club for 24 years. He worked his way up from Chef du Partie to Junior Sous Chef to Senior Sour Chef. His favourite dish to cook is steak with a side of sautéed mushrooms.

Hello Chacko, our head driver at Dubai Golf. Originating from India, Chacko joined the company over 26 years ago and he is our ‘go-to guy’ at Dubai Golf. During his free time Chacko catches all the live sporting action on TV. His favourite things about Dubai are the parks and beaches.

Club News

#teamdubaigolf #meettheteam

Every Saturday should be about Oysters!

Join us in Le Classique for our new Laid Back Saturday Brunch featuring delicious French food, fine beverages and chilled out tunes.

Timings: 4.00pm to 8.00pm Price: AED 190 per person or

AED 385 with unlimited

reds and whites Call: 04 417 9999 to book

your table now.

Gourmet Tuesdays in Le Classique are the perfect mid-week treat!

Enjoy an à la carte menu of exceptional gourmet main courses expertly prepared

by Chef Remi, along with a starter and dessert buffet and an impressive selection of reds and whites to complement your meal. from AED 245 per person, contact +971 4 417 9999 for bookings!

Captains’ D

inner

22 CAPTAINS’ DINNER

T

he 2017 Captains’ Dinner took place on 9th April, the final night of the US Masters; this dinner is a get-together of all past Captains, current and incoming Captains as well as current and incoming Vice-Captains. As always, this traditional dinner was an excellent evening with a delicious dinner prepared by Chef Nicholas, some speeches by Management and current Captains, Vipen and Maura. A total of 23 Captains/Lady Captains were present with spouses on the evening and it was enjoyed by all.

Congratulations to Omega Dubai Desert Classic Champion 2017, Sergio Garcia, who became the 2017 Masters Champion on Sunday, April 9th defeating Justin Rose in a play-off

Omega Dubai Desert Classic Champion 2017

TO THIS…

US Masters Champion 2017

s

FROM THIS…

US Master

US MASTERS 2017

23

IN THE SPACE OF TWO MONTHS • This is his second European Tour victory of the 2017 season following the Omega Dubai Desert Classic.

• His first Major Championship victory comes in his 74th Major Championship appearance, on what would have been the 60th birthday of Seve Ballesteros.

• His victory comes in his 19th Masters Tournament appearance.

• Aged 37, he is the oldest first-time winner of the Masters since Angel Cabrera, who was 39 in 2009.

• He is the third different Spanish Major Champion, following Seve Ballesteros and José Maria Olazabal.

• It is the eighth Major victory by a Spanish player, five for Seve Ballesteros, two for José Maria Olazabal and one for Sergio Garcia. Of those eight, five have come at Augusta National. Ballesteros won in 1980 and 1983, Olazábal won in 1994 and 1999 and Garcia in 2017.

• The 52nd Major Championship victory by a European Tour Member since 1979 when Seve Ballesteros won The Open Championship in 1979.

F&B AT EMIRATES GOLF CLUB

by Miles Entwistle Emirates Golf Club hosted the launch of Heineken H41, a limited edition lager brewed using a rare ‘mother’ yeast discovered in Patagonia.

Developed by the brand’s Master Brewers, the new lager has a fuller taste, with spicy notes balanced by subtle fruity hints.

The name H41 is derived from the latitude co-ordinate of the beech forest in Patagonia where this yeast was discovered. The H stands for Heineken.

The launch took place in the woodland area off the left hand side of the Majlis 9th fairway, creating an experience resembling the source of the rare ‘mother’ yeast.

24

Dear Members,

A

Fit Lab

As mentioned in the previous issue of Club Life, the talent, quality and services now on offer at the Club really do stand out and make us, without a doubt, the best Golf Club in the region. I am pleased to announce that Roseleaf, alongside Up and Running, will be opening this month so please watch out for this. I am confident that both of these companies will add massive value to the Club. I am really excited to get them on board and they will most certainly help make the Club a one stop hub where everything is at your disposal.

clinic team using digital gait analysis to maximise run technique and performance. She also has expertise in the use of Pilates in rehabilitation and enables patients to return to sport at the highest level post injury.

Lee Watkins Physiotherapist Lee specialises in treating tennis injuries using a functional movement approach in relation to the movement mechanics of tennis.

An experienced tennis player himself, Lee has expertise in crafting rehabilitation programmes for players at every level. He also has experience in the screening of golfers to obtain movement information to enable improvements in athletic performance.

Jennifer Rath Physiotherapist Jennifer, specialises in the treatment of swimming, paddleboard and combat sport injuries.

An experienced kickboxing and swimming trainer, Jennifer’s understanding of anatomy and function enables her to rehabilitate patients back to training and competition and prevent further injury in the future.

David Eakins Osteopath David’s focus is on the mechanics of the body, to restore function, prevent and treat injury, and optimise performance.

OUR TWO NEW PERSONAL TRAINERS Vincent and Eliane have now settled into the Club and, if you haven’t already, please give them a warm welcome. They both have an abundance of knowledge and experience and they are already proving to be a massive asset to the Club. Well done guys to a great start!

MEMBER OF THE MONTH: MIKE TRACEY Mike has done unbelievably well over the past few years.

He has transformed his body by improving his lifestyle and we all know that is not easy to do. All credit to you Mike on this fully deserved award and keep up the great work.

An Irish field hockey international, David uses specific techniques to suit individual needs, including soft tissue release, joint mobilisation and manipulation, and dry needling to complement treatment.

Kate Ross Physiotherapist Kate, has a strong focus on manual therapy, Clinical Pilates based rehabilitation, exercise specific rehabilitation and pre/postoperative management.

Kate offers assessment and management of all sports related injuries, as well as screening for injury prevention and treatment Healthy Regards Andy Meech Head of Sports & Leisure

UPANDRUNNING TEAM PROFILES Michael Mefo Physiotherapist Michael Mefo has provided physiotherapy management for golfers at both amateur and at professional levels of the game and his recent experience included providing musculoskeletal screens for the UAE National Golf Team.

Michael offers assessment and management of golf related injuries, conducting musculoskeletal golf screening for injury prevention and treatment

Jeelna Ruparelia Physiotherapist Jeelna is internationally experienced in tennis rehabilitation. She has worked with all levels of players ranging from beginners to semi professionals. By utilising the court, coaches and playsight videography within rehabilitation sessions, she promotes a healthy return to sport and encourages preventative management strategies.

Kelly Robinson Leading the team at the Rehabilitation Centre Physiotherapist Kelly specialises in lower limb injury and biomechanics in sports persons.

She has treated elite level runners, triathletes, rugby and football players from around the world. She is a member of our run

PADELTENNIS ACTIVITIES

EXERCISE TIP OF THE MONTH BY VINCENT MAYNARD: Dynamic hip flexor with thoracic rotation stretch

This stretch can be used by everyone especially people who sit for prolonged period of times and it is also great for golfers to improve their thoracic rotation.

- Step forward into a lunge position making sure you keep your knee off the ground - Place hands on the floor next to your front leg - Rotate your arm across the body to open up the chest and hips - Repeat this movement on both legs and rotate 10 times This stretch can be used in conjunction with your warm-up routine to ensure you are ready for your workout or round of golf!

FROM THE PROSHOP

MAY SPECIAL OFFER

TITLEIST PRICE CUT!

Come and visit us in store to see what we have on offer.

Just to mention a few…..

TITLEIST VOCKEY WEDGE: WAS AED 815 NOW ONLY AED 595

TITLEIST 917 DRIVER: WAS AED2,650 NOW ONLY AED 2,425

ProShop

This dynamic stretch is great for opening up the hips and mid back and creating more mobility throughout the joints.

TEE & SANDWEDGES

25

TITLEIST 917 FAIRWAY WOOD: WAS AED 1,595 NOW ONLY AED 1,395

WHAT’S NEW Ping has released two new limited putters - the Camo Ketsch Realtree Xtra and the Camo Ketsch Muddy Girl. This is part of the Ping lab’s effort “to advance new putter design, technology and engineering concepts,” according to the company.

Speak to any of the Golf Shop Associates to pre-order your putter today.

SPECIFICATIONS: PING PLD2 REALTREE KETSCH • Authentic REALTREE XTRA or REALTREE Muddy Girl camo pattern • Permodized anodized sealing process allows quality camo graphics • Precision milled from 6061 aluminum at PING in Phoenix • Contrasting sightlines, easy to aim • Patented true-roll face technology improves speed control • Face speeds up off-Centre strikes for fewer 3-putts • Unprecedented stability, control • 17-4 stainless steel sole weights create high MOI • Non-glare shaft

SUMMER SPECIALS WITH NIKKY SPORTS:

Juniors/Teenagers

Group sessions: fun, fitness, squash Depending on numbers 60-90 minutes.

Daily/weekly, day time sessions Charges: AED 75 guests, AED 65 members per session.

Timings to be arranged.

Adults: Men/Women

Group sessions: fitness training (upper body/leg work/abdominals) Strength, mobility, flexibility, spee, endurance Depending on numbers 60-90 minutes Daily/weekly Charges: AED 75 guests, AED 65 members per session.

Timings to be arranged.

Adults: Men/Women

Group sessions: learning a new sport, squash coaching and training.

Technique, control, footwork, skill, match game play.

Daily/weekly Charges: AED 75 guests, AED 65 members per session

GET FITTED WITH FRANK With golf club equipment and golf balls changing so often, it is very important to find the right set that suits your game. Test your clubs with our Senior Custom Fitting Specialist (Frank) to see if your clubs are set up correctly. Using the latest Trackman technology test the newest equipment from the leading brands including Callaway, Ping, TaylorMade and Titleist.

For more information on custom fitting or to book your slot please see our Golf Shop Associates and ask for Frank.

MAY DEMO DAYS The Faldo Academy Golf Shop will close at the end of May for the summer so join us for the closing down month packed with Demo Days.

The Faldo Academy Golf Shop is open daily from 2.00pm to 8.00pm. The Golf Store has all of your golfing needs covered. Choose from a wide range of major golf brands including TaylorMade, Titleist, Ping, Callaway, Scotty Cameron Putters, Odyssey, Dunlop and Masters Golf Accessories.

CAN’T MAKE THE DEMO DAY…?

We also have all the latest demo equipment available for you to try in your own time.

It is important to find the right set that suits your game. Test the latest equipment with our Senior Custom Fitting Specialist (Frank). Our Repair Specialists Purna and Dilbar are also available to assist you when you need to change your grips, repair your clubs or check the loft and lie angles.

DATE BRAND LOCATION TIME Tuesday, May 2nd Ping & Titleist Faldo Driving Range 3.00pm - 7.00pm Monday, May 15th Titleist Faldo Driving Range 3.00pm - 7.00pm Monday, May 22nd TaylorMade Faldo Driving Range 3.00pm - 7.00pm Tuesday, May 23rd Ping Faldo Driving Range 3.00pm - 7.00pm Wednesday, May 24th Titleist Faldo Driving Range 3.00pm - 7.00pm Thursday, May 25th Callaway Faldo Driving Range 3.00pm - 7.00pm Juan Kramer Retail Manager

s t e p p i n S e l o 19th H

Congratulations to Mary Ann Gruta, Senior F&B Events Coordinator at Emirates Golf Club. who will be getting married on 13th May in the Philippines to Reno Abela.

Mary Ann at her bridal shower in Dubai

Noritess from Reservations gave birth to a healthy baby boy JK, on March 24th. Congratulations!

Past Lady Captain Sue Connor was visiting Dubai recently and managed to have a round of golf with Margaret Bain and Afifa Clarke.

Welcome back Sue.

Remember our Pro Shop Manager Keith Wilkes and his ‘claim to fame’ that he resembled John Bishop the comedian….looks like the story hasn’t died down….

Quiz Night Winners April 24th Congratulations to team Quizimodos who won the Spike Bar Quiz Night on 24th April,, followed by teams Happy Hookers and Party Fears!

The Indian Workers Resource Centre in Dubai received gift packs (which included toiletries small towels etc) that were donated by Emirates Golf Club members for labourers in Dubai. Manager, Mr Anish Choudhury set a letter of acknowledgement to the Club

Congratulations to Ismail who works in the refreshments huts at the Club, whose beautiful daughter Milshani got married last month in Sri Lanka.

We are proud to see the new solar panel systems installed on selected golf carts at the Club! Each solar panel reduces the amount of electricity required to recharge a golf cart and extends the runtime between charges, helping us to create a more sustainable environment.

Gerald and Neasa Lawless were at the Mersey Derby, Liverpool v Everton last month and look who they bumped into.

Bond movie star, Daniel Craig.

Look behind you Gerald!

Craig Haldane completed his first full Ironman last month We should be running a caption competition for this one..

Congratulations Craig!

“We’ve been expecting you Mr Lawless!”

So I finally have time to sit down after a few days of non-stop on the go game viewing with no TV and no wifi..... bliss!!

“Ooh look, there’s Gerald Lawless. Could you please quickly take a photo of me with him!”

Presentation of a cheque to the value of AED 50,000 being presented to the Club for the Junior Colleagues Fund by members of the organising committee of the Indian Invitational, Rekha Bandopadhyay, Jayshree Gupta, Vipen Sethi and Surender Kandhari

Reflection is a beautiful thing. You think back, realise what’s been achieved and are able to take an honest look at yourself and account for what has just happened.

Many people look at ‘time’ as the one and only thing to judge an achievement on. It’s a factor yes, but here is what it is all about. It’s about finding your passion in life outside of work, that allows you to be up for it on a daily basis, that in fact makes you more focused at other things as you need the time to focus on training to get a job done. It’s about a massive support network without whom none of this would be possible. It’s down to friends, colleagues, fellow triathletes on similar journeys that you meet along the way, your particular group of people you train with, for me Growings, that support you throughout it all.

I have been fortunate to have professional guidance along the way, a privilege. Trace Rogers who I met a little under two years ago guided me to my very first sprint triathlon, and to this day has supported me throughout this journey. We have gone from not being able to swim 50m in the pool to finishing an Ironman.

“You are stronger than you think” is her virtue and she has taught me so much more than this sport alone!

Zarina Chinchinwala celebrated her 85th birthday last month at her home on The Palm.

Congratulations Zarina!

Sadly, this month we say farewell to Sampath Pradeep from Golf Operations. Sampath is a very popular colleague who is always extremely helpful and has a good word and a big smile for everyone. We will miss you Sampath but we wish you all the best in your home in Sri Lanka

Congratulations to Helen Srivastava who had a hole-in-one on the Majlis 15th hole

The most important person in my life and the woman without whom any of this would have been possible is off course my wife Aneisha.

What people don’t see are the hours and hours of training that is involved. In order to do so you need a very supporting family - the countless mornings where we could have been out doing family things at “the best part of the day” and the late nights where she was probably more tired than me having spent months minding Zahra and Haydn, I simply can’t thank her enough. She is the one who encouraged me to get off my backside in the first place and to sort myself out and is the most selfless individual I know!

What a journey. If I can do this anyone can. Challenge yourself and get out of your comfort zone, I plan to do so again..........