Thursday, Mar 20, 2008
Gulf News
Abu Dhabi: The National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD) will sponsor the 35th Men's Abu Dhabi Open Golf Championship to be held over the weekend at the Al Ghazal Golf Club (AGGC).
Announcing NBAD's support, Ehab Khairi, the bank's Media and Public Relations Manger, said "NBAD is delighted to be associated with AGCC in hosting this prestigious event especially as it comes in our 40th anniversary year".
"Our sponsorship of this event comes as a part of NBAD's corporate social responsibility policy and reflects our strong relationships with Al Ghazal Golf Club as we are sponsoring the Ladies Open, organised by AGGC, since the 1980's," he added.
"We are committed to support various sport activities and clubs as part of our corporate social responsibility's initiatives," Khairi said.
Prize money
"The 35th Abu Dhabi Men's Open is open to both Amateur and Professional Golfers and carries a purse of Dh 15,000 - which is competed for by the Professional Golfers. Last year saw 15 Professional golfers competing and this year we expect as many if not more entries" said Angela Scurr, Al Ghazal Golf Club Manager said.
Giving details of the event, she said, "This year the Amateur Golfers maximum handicap allowance is 10, however, if the entry is oversubscribed, a handicap ballot will have to be made and unfortunately some golf enthusiasts may not get in. We are already receiving entries which include outside entries from Bahrain and Spain. We can also confirm that last year's winner Matthew Turner will be defending his title along with the UAE's own Khalid Yousuf, who played this year in the Dubai Desert Classic," Scurr revealed. Last year's joint Professional winners were Al Ghazal Golf Club's Mark Ireland and Ernie Rellon from Abu Dhabi Golf Club.
Simon Payne, the 2006 winner, will also be playing this year and will be looking to emulate his past record.
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