The 10th Anniversary edition of the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship, played at the immaculately conditioned Abu Dhabi Golf Club managed by Troon Golf, reached a thrilling Sunday afternoon climax this January as fans were treated to a final round full of dramatic twists and turns, featuring the biggest names in world golf.
Firmly established as one of the European Tour’s most high-profile tournaments, the ‘Gulf Swing’ opener at the Troon-managed facility has certainly cemented its position as firm favourite amongst the players this year; attracting the likes of world number one and two, Rory McIlroy and Henrik Stenson, current U.S. Open champion Martin Kaymer, and American sensation Rickie Fowler.
The final day delivered perhaps one of the most unexpected conclusions to a European Tour event in many a year, as Frenchman Gary Stal produced an impressive round of seven under-par 65 to secure a maiden European Tour victory, after clawing back an eight-shot deficit over three-time champion Martin Kaymer, who at one point had a ten-shot lead over his nearest competitor during Sunday’s final round.
Commenting on yet another successful staging of the tournament, Group General Manager, Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Chris Card said: “Firstly I would like to say a big thank you to the entire team here at the club, collectively they did a sensational job to ensure the golf course was presented in its best ever condition as well as delivering first-class service to our members and guests in the clubhouse and iconic Falcon Terrace.”
He went on to add, “I was also particularly pleased to see how well the course changes were received by the players as we really wanted to present some new challenges to them, as well as enhance the overall golf course layout for our regular guests.”
Watched by record crowds exceeding 65,000 over the four days, Card’s comments were further echoed by Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship Tournament Director, Miguel Vidaor, who himself was awarded the 10-year anniversary ‘Spirit of the Championship’ accolade.
“The 10th Anniversary of this magnificent event has been a resounding success, and as ever, the players have been unanimous in their praise for the amazing job that Group Director of Agronomy, Andrew Whittaker and his award-winning team have done in delivering the golf course in such unbelievable condition.”
“The changes to some of the holes, under the watchful eye of Peter Harradine have certainly added another dimension to the course and I couldn’t have been happier with the support provided by the entire team at Abu Dhabi Golf Club to help us deliver the best Championship to date,” he added.
Abu Dhabi Golf Club continues to maintain its position as the home of golf in the emirate attracting ever-increasing numbers of international guests, benefiting from the on-site Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa as well as the region’s renowned hospitality and world-class attractions.
For further information on available Stay & Play packages to experience one of the European Tour’s most highly-regarded championship venues visit www.adgolfclub.com