Dubai: The professionals will be looking to extract revenge over the amateurs in the 18th edition of the Dubai Golf Trophy at Dubai Creek and Emirates Golf Clubs this Saturday and Sunday (May 20-21).
This annual Ryder Cup-style event sees the top 16 professionals in UAE golf take on the best 16 amateurs.
Last year, the amateurs beat the professionals 19.5 to 12.5 to clinch the title for the first time in nine years, and only the third time the 17-year history of the competition. Now the professionals will be out to make amends.
“With the amateur game at a higher level year-on-year, it’s going to be another fantastic two days of heated competition,” said captain of the professionals David Gray. “It’s an honour to captain the professionals and I look forward to seeing how the two days unfold with of course the professionals denying the amateurs their first ever title defence.”
Meanwhile, amateur captain Bayhaan Lakdawala is keen to repeat last year’s upset. “The win last year sparked a lot of interest among amateurs in the country,” he said. “This has led to stronger tournament fields and excellent golf being played in the qualifying events. Coming off one of the most competitive amateur seasons ever, we are really looking forward to competing against the professionals in one of the most esteemed golfing events in the UAE.”
Christopher May, chief executive officer of Dubai Golf added: “The Dubai Golf Trophy is a superb event to be a part of, there is always a very competitive spirit between the two teams which leads to some interesting competition and results. The amateur team had a fantastic win last year and the professionals will be eager to get back to their winning ways. The purpose of the Dubai Golf Trophy is to raise the profile of golf in the region and to bring players from clubs all over the UAE together in a competitive and enjoyable format, which provides a focus for players to aim for throughout the qualifying events during the season. Qualifying for this end-of-season tournament is a great achievement for the golfers involved. We are all anticipating an exciting two days of competition ahead.”
