UAE makes a statement with four back-to-back golf events

Al Hamra Golf Club in RAK, which will host two DP World Tour events, received a major endorsement from Peter Cowen. Image Credit: Supplied photo

Firstly, congratulations to the UAE for now having four back-to-back events over the next few weeks.

What a statement that is for golf around the world.

I cannot think of another country in the world that has managed to do this, especially in a country of just 20 or so golf clubs.

I have never been to Al Hamra Golf Club in Ras Al Khaimah, but I heard from my guys who graduated through the Challenge Tour over the years what a great all-in destination it is, with the hotels all on-site, including the Waldorf Astoria. I must take my wife Fran there when I am next on holidays in Dubai.

I am in the UAE for two weeks, and missing the last two weeks in Ras Al Khaimah.

I have had a few meetings with the new Vice-Chairman of the Emirates Golf Federation, General Abdullah Al Hashmi. It is never an easy job to accommodate and keep satisfied so many different factions: UAE nationals, national teams, expats, juniors, seniors, members of golf clubs and non-members of golf clubs, coaching as well as government. I was impressed with his vision and will support where and when I can.

The UAE has such fantastic facilities, great weather and such hospitality.

I was so impressed how busy Dubai was last week.

Now, back to this week and the year ahead.

I am impressed with Viktor Hovland (Norway). He is still so young but his transition to a top-10 player in the OWGR.

Others to catch my eye are Collin Morikawa (US). His strength is his iron play. It’s one of the best in the world and currently number two in the world.

Hideki Matsuyama (Japan) looks to be enhancing his CV and I see him going higher.

I am excited for some of my players this year but who is the next European star in world golf?

Matt Fitzpatrick looks to be in a good shape for a good year and his younger brother, Alex, who I coach, looks another future star at 23 years old. He has what it takes. He will finish this June his US College programme and finished in the top four in the American College Rankings.

Watch Alex. You heard it from me!