Dubai: Michael Harradine will be chasing back-to-back victories when he tees off in the Shaikh Rashid Trophy, organised by the Emirates Golf Federation, from November 17 to 19.
Fresh from competing in the MENA Golf Tour, where he finished tied fourth in the Order of Merit, Harradine will need to be on top of his game if he aims to emulate Ross Bain and Peter Downie, who have both previously won the flagship event of the EGF twice in a row.
Sponsored by Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa, the event will see leading amateurs from the UAE and overseas battle it out for honours at three different courses in Dubai.
The first round will be held at the Arabian Ranches Golf Club on Thursday, November 17, the second at The Els Club on November 18, while Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa will host the finale on November 19.
The tournament, which has grown in popularity and stature over the years, is a 54-hole men's gross strokeplay event. The cut will be made after 36 holes, with the top 30 plus ties making it to the final round.
Overwhelming
"We are pleased with the overwhelming response to the tournament," said Saeed Al Budoor, general manager of the Emirates Golf Federation. "We have also received entries from Oman, Kuwait, Saudi, Bahrain, Qatar, Jordan, Iraq, Tunisia and Scotland, among other countries, giving the event a global look, which is great. The presence of the UAE national team members will further add to the quality of the field," he said.
"All three courses are in superb condition and will provide a fair test to golfers," said Al Budoor, who also lauded Gulf News and Ernst & Young for their invaluable support to the tournament.
Open to amateur golfers holding a valid handicap of 18 or below, the event has its own added incentives as it's a qualifier for the World Amateur Ranking Order of Merit and a part of the EGF Order of Merit.
Restricted to a field of 100, the tournament will be played from the championship tees and, if it is oversubscribed, golfers holding the lowest handicaps will get into the main draw.
