Ahmad Ahead: Another strong showing in Dubai

Dubai : Ahmad Al Musharrekh, who recently won a major tournament in Riyadh, put in another strong display in the Al Naboodah Cup at Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club to move atop the Emirates Golf Federation's Order of Merit.

The talented youngster carded a gross 79 to finish tied fifth, eight shots behind winner Mukhtar Mirza. With this impressive finish, Ahmad has taken his tally to 53.25 points, overtaking Vikram Judge (50) and Mirza (49.5).

The Al Naboodah Cup is part of a four-event series of the UAE PGA Patrons Cup which has been included for the first time in the Emirates Golf Federation men's Order of Merit.

High scoring

The participants returned high scores during the Al Naboodah Cup which attracted a strong field. Mirza led the way with his consistent showing, beating his nearest challenger and former Order of Merit winner Mathew Turner by a good three shots.

Among other notable golfers, Abdullah Al Musharrekh also produced a fine performance, finishing fourth on gross 78, one shot ahead of younger brother Ahmad. With eight events still to be played, the Order of Merit race promises an exciting finish.

At present, Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club golfers are dominating the race, occupying the top-five places. And the trend may continue as the next event on the Order of Merit is the Dubai Creek Open which will be held on January 8 and 9.

Saeed Albudoor, general manager of the Emirates Golf Federation, thanked the players for their enthusiastic response to the Order of Merit events. "With just seven points separating the top four, the battle for the Order of Merit title is picking up steam. I am sure there will be some more twists and turns in the script before the champion is crowned in April," he said.

Ladies open

The 2010 Ladies Open, presented by The Montgomerie, Dubai and sponsored by AGMC BMW, will be held on January 8 and 9. It will be a 36-hole aggregate strokeplay event with professional, gross and net divisions.

The event is open to all professionals and amateurs and includes two rounds of golf, tournament giveaways, professional gross and nett prizes and light lunch on Day 1, light lunch and prize presentation dinner on Day 2. Dinner guest tickets are available for Dh150 per person. Entry fee is Dh425 for TMD golf citizens, Dh575 for UGA members and professionals, Dh350 for juniors (under-16) and Dh700 for for non-UGA members. Visit www.emiratesgolffederation.com for more.