Golfers’ brilliance tees up big charity donation

Dubai: Stephen Gallacher’s history-making defence of his Omega Dubai Desert Classic not only boosted the Scotsman’s profile and wallet, but he also contributed towards a big charity donation.

Event sponsor Dubai Aluminium (Dubal) announced before the weekend it would donate Dh50 for every birdie and Dh100 for every eagle holed during the four-day competition at Emirates Golf Club’s Majlis Course.

Gallacher contributed 24 birdies and two eagles alone, while the tournament totals reached 1,546 birdies and 34 eagles, giving a total of Dh80,100 for the Dubai Centre for Special Needs.

With the 25th edition of the tournament boasting a strong field boasting the likes of Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, fans also flocked to the course to catch a glimpse of their heroes. The week of events attracted a total attendance of 37,640 — well above last year’s figure of 28,831.

Mohammad Juma Bu Amim, vice chairman and CEO of Golf in Dubai, the promoters and organisers of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, said: “Every achievement is precious and timeless, just like a classic. It seemed like it was only yesterday, but the years marched on. For us, every year constituted a milestone. And reaching the 25th anniversary landmark was something special, the memories of which we will treasure for a long time to come.

“I am not sure if there is a mystical element to winning at the Majlis Course at Emirates Golf Club but I do know that the fans have been treated to some pretty good theatre over the years.”