Play got underway today [Thursday] at Al Mouj Golf in Oman, host venue for the European Tour’s 2019 Oman Open.
Offering world-class facilities and exceptional championship course conditions, Oman’s headline golfing destination is hosting exciting field that includes defending champion Joost Luiten, Ryder Cup star Chris Wood, and Austrian favourite Bernd Weisberger. The star-studded line-up will battle it out for a $1.75 million prize fund over the stunning Greg Norman-designed links from February 28-March 3.
Nasser bin Masoud Al Sheibani, CEO of Al Mouj Muscat, said: “We are delighted to welcome the European Tour back to Al Mouj Golf, after its successful inauguration last year. The overwhelmingly positive reaction to last year’s event, and the interest in the 2019 Oman Open by players, is testament to the quality and individuality of the layout and its surrounding environment. I have no doubt that the 2019 Oman Open, which showcases Oman in all its glory, will strengthen its position in the world, as a beautiful destination for tourists and investors.”
Located along a 2km stretch of pristine coastline, flanking the Indian Ocean and with the stunning Hajjar mountain range in the background, Al Mouj Golf Club is Oman’s first links-style course. Other world-class facilities on offer include a teaching academy and floodlit driving range, a floodlit par-3 nine-hole course, a pro shop, and a restaurant.
Last year, the world-class golf venue which recently won the 2019 IAGTO Sustainability Award for Community value, drew rave reviews from the European Tour’s elite players, confirming Al Mouj Golf as one of the world’s golfing gems. Chris Wood, who narrowly missed out on the title, was not short of praise for the European Tour destination, saying: “It’s a bit of a mix between a links and a desert course. The design is really good and there are so many players saying the same things. It’s in perfect condition and the practice facilities are awesome too.”
Eddie Pepperell also commented: ‘‘Al Mouj is a must-play if you’re ever in Oman. I’d say it’s the best course I’ve played in the Middle East.’’
This year, the competitors will be welcomed at the brand-new Oman International Airport and will stay in the Kempinski Hotel, comprising 310 rooms and suites, state-of-the-art facilities, world-class restaurants and bars, and a fully-equipped fitness centre.
Keith Pelley, CEO of the European Tour, said: “The European Tour is delighted to see the great development of golf in Oman since the first Challenge Tour event in 2013. The 2018 Oman Open has been a terrific tournament, praised by our players, who are eager to come back this year to the incredible Al Mouj Golf course and the amazing Sultanate of Oman. It is wonderful to see so many additional sponsors supporting the event. The players will love the new Official Hotel and will be very impressed by the new Muscat International Airport. The European Tour is committed to the Oman Open and we see great potential in the event for years to come.”