Sharif set to become first national golfer to turn pro

Seven-time UAE national champion Esmail Sharif is set to make history of sorts by becoming the first national golfer to turn professional.

Sharif, who started his playing career in 1993 at the Emirates Golf Club, has formally applied to the UAE Golf Association (UGA) requesting them to grant him professional status.

"This is like a dream-come-true for me. It has been hard work for more than a decade. But it's been worth every moment," Sharif told Gulf News.

Should the UGA accede to Sharif's request, he will have to forfeit his amateur privileges and henceforth compete in tournaments as a scratch player.

The decision to turn pro could have been prompted by the Iranian Golf Federation (IGF) who have asked Sharif to coach their national squad.

"I'm keen on taking up this offer as the IGF wants me to help prepare teams, both ladies' and men's, for the Asian Games in 2006 in Qatar," Sharif stated.

"This would be a great challenge for me as I love to coach."

However, this request from the IGF has to be endorsed by the Iranian National Olympic Committee.

"It's a bit too early as I have not yet signed an agreement with them. But I am keen to accept this offer," Sharif added.

At this turning point in his career the popular national golfer, was was introduced to the game by a Japanese friend, reflected on his colourful and eventful career.

"I somehow liked the feel of the club as I held it in my hand," Sharif recollected.

"And I was hooked permanently."

Sharif spent a major part of the next six months on the driving range and the par-3 course of the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club (DCGYC).

"I spent five to six hours on the course, just getting my swing right and concentrating on my short game and putting," said Sharif reminiscing on his early days. This effort was to play a huge role in his success later as Sharif reduced his handicap rapidly in a short period.

"Very often, new golfers make this mistake of taking to the big course and participating in competitions within a few weeks of learning the basics. I don't support this," Sharif stated.

In 1994, Sharif realised yet another dream when he was chosen to play alongside Ernie Els in the Dubai Desert Classic Pro Am.

"It was on Hole 16 and I was so nervous, my legs were trembling," Sharif said.

"I sliced the ball and the shot nearly hit one of your photographers," he recollected.

However, it was this moment which will stay in his memory forever, as the South African golfer who ironically went on to win the Desert Classic that year came up to the nervous Sharif and offered him some advice.

"'Calm down and play your game,' Ernie told me. This is one advice which I myself give to many a new golfer now," Sharif said.