Dettori signs up for the Omega Dubai Desert Classic Challenge match

Champion jockey Frankie Dettori has wowed fans with his trademark leap from the saddle. He could well surprise them with his golfing skills when he joins the celebrity-studded Omega Dubai Desert Classic Challenge Match at the Emirates Golf Club on February 7.

Winners of countless races all over the world, the famous Godolphin jockey plays off a decent 18 handicap, but his enigmatic charm will guarantee a galloping success for the new-look event which will feature some of the best players in the world.

Ask him which other sportsman he would like to be and he would say without any hesitation: “A golfer. A good one like Lee Westwood.” With the world number two Westwood himself in the field, Dettori will be all fired up for what promises to be an ‘entertaining battle.’

The pint-size Italian-born jockey, who won all seven races on the card at Ascot in September 1996 and the 2007 Derby on Authorized among his major exploits, has been awarded an honorary MBE for his services to sport.

“It feels just great to be part of the Challenge Match. I love playing golf, but, I don’t get enough time,” he said. “With players like Lee in the field it will be an evening to remember. I am looking forward to it with a sense of anticipation,” said Dettori, who has since turned restaurateur and has also released a cookbook.

The match will start at 6pm at the par-3 course and the fans will be allowed to take photographs of their favourite golf stars and celebrities.