UAE PGA's Al Naboodah Junior Series Bags New Initiative Award

The Middle East Golfer Awards, hosted by ITP and Middle East Golfer magazine, recently recognised the UAE PGA's efforts in developing the regions' Junior Golfers by awarding the UAE PGA's Al Naboodah Junior Series with Best New Initiative of 2009.

"On behalf of the UAE PGA Committee, its members and the Saeed & Mohammed Al Naboodah Group we are exceptionally proud of the Junior Series, and are honoured to receive this award in acknowledgement of the implementation and management of this programme for the benefit of our Junior Golfers" said Stephen Hubner, UAE PGA Tournament Director.

Launched in 2009, the Junior Series is open to all budding golfers aged between 6 to 14 years who are currently enrolled in golf clinics and golf schools run by UAE Golf Clubs. Each tour... read more >>

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Rayhan takes charge in Al Naboodah's UAE PGA Junior par 3 series

15th Jan 10 at 02:59pm

Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club played host to the third Al Naboodah sponsored UAE PGA Junior Par-3 Series today, which saw home-grown Academy student, Rayhan John Thomas claim the title of Overall Champion. Rayhan's consistent game rewarded him with score of 26, giving him a clear lead over the field of focused and determined young golfers.

Girls 12 and under winner was awarded to The Montgomerie's Amelia McKee, carding 33, and continuing her outstanding run leading into Monday's Al Naboodah Invitational event, which will see her tee-up against a number of European Tour players. 2^nd place was secured by Dubai Creek's Kim Chiang whose 35 gave her a one-shot lead over fellow Academy student Aashka Desai, shooting 36. Boushra Dalile, of Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club, claimed the Girls 13 and above tiara returning a 35.

A tight finish in the Boys 12 and under category resulted in a count back with the 2009 series winner, Dubai Creek's Aryan Chordia take the title over Abu Dhabi City Golf Club's Nicholas Bardt, both carding a strong 28. Also of Dubai Creek, Dhruv Nair, was pipped by the duo and after returning 29 settled into third place. 

The place getters in the Boys 13 and above division were separated by one point each, with Abu Dhabi City Golf Club's Jack Novack standing tall on the podium with 29. Jorge Menkhorst of Emirates Golf Club settled into the runner-up position with 30 and Rishad Lakdawala, of Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club walked away with a 31 and third place.

"A special mention to all parents today" said UAE PGA Tournament Director Stephen Hubner. "Without their enthusiasm, dedication and bag-handling skills the series could not be as successful as it is." "Thank you to Mustafa Al Hashimi, Rob Gradishar and Alan McKenzie of Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club for their support and management of today's event, the Par-3 course is in outstanding condition" he added. "On behalf of the UAE PGA Committee I am delighted to see the growth and development of the juniors that play in these events, it is truly rewarding. And to our Patron, Al Naboodah whose involvement in such events sets a firm foundation for us to continue junior's development, we sincerely thank you".