Sport | Golf
Els to start as favourite in Dubai Desert Classic
A classy star-cast, spearheaded by three-time winner Ernie Els, promises to serve up a feast of golf when the Dubai Desert Classic gets under way at the Emirates Golf Club from January 26 to February 1.
- Staff Report
- Published: 23:38 January 8, 2009
- Image Credit: AP file
- Els is likely to start as favourite in the $2.5 million event.
Dubai: A classy star-cast, spearheaded by three-time winner Ernie Els, promises to serve up a feast of golf when the Dubai Desert Classic gets under way at the Emirates Golf Club from January 26 to February 1.
While Els is likely to start as favourite in the $2.5 million (Dh9.2 million) event, promoted and organised by 'golf in DUBAi' at the Majlis Course, there will be a great deal of local interest in the performance of Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy following some superb recent displays which have underlined his status as one of the game's brightest young talents.
Since turning professional last September and signing a sponsorship agreement the same week with The Jumeirah Group, McIlroy, who has made Dubai his second home, has more than lived up to expectations following an outstanding amateur career.
In addition to becoming the youngest golfer to earn a million euros (Dh5.03 million) in career prize money, he has soared up world rankings to the 39th position.
His return to Dubai is eagerly awaited by the Jumeirah Group, who are beginning a third year as a 'golf in DUBAi' partner and are preparing to serve up their own golfing feast at the Desert Classic, as the tournament's official caterer and official hotel operator hosting so many of the world's top players.
"We're delighted to continue our association with 'golf in DUBAi' and with the Dubai Desert Classic," said Apo Demirtas, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, Jumeirah Group.
"Our involvement with this prestigious tournament allows us to promote Jumeirah as a luxury brand and play our part in showcasing Dubai as a unique business and leisure destination worldwide.
"Naturally, we're thrilled with the start Rory has made to his professional career. These are exciting times for us, as well as for Rory," he said.
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