Qualifier Yasin Ali strikes a rich purse

Nad Al Sheba professional Yasin Ali was Dh 100,000 richer after scoring a hole-in-one at the 182-yard seventh.

The 23-year-old used a seven iron to secure the fifth ace of his career and a bumper cheque from sponsors Emirates, the clear highlight of a one-under par round of 71 in only his second professional tournament after appearing in last year's Desert Classic. Ali, who made the tournament through a regional pro qualifier, went out in 32.

And although he was disappointed to drop shots on both the 16th and 18th holes, he said: "I would have settled before the start for a one-under round and a cheque for Dh100,000."

Japan's Nobuhito Sato, meanwhile, aced the par three 180-yard 15th. But his only reward was to claw back two shots in a one-over total of 73.