Hage and Atherton secure first 2012-13 International Pairs UAE National final berth at Arabian Ranches
The 2012-13 Tech Access International Pairs UAE Presented by Cadillac launched in earnest on Saturday 3rd November as members of Arabian Ranches Golf Club in Dubai took to the course looking to secure the first berth in this season’s National Final. With such a prestigious prize on offer – winners receive a stay at Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi as well as the chance to go on and represent the UAE in the International Pairs World Final – competition was predictably tight.
With perfect weather conditions and the course in pristine condition, it was no surprise that three-quarters of the field returned a score of par or better in the best-ball format. With only ¾ handicap allowance, scores were impressive and testament to the competitive spirit at the Ranches.
Eventually, it was the inspired pairing of Rania Hage & Graham Atherton who emerged victorious thanks to a superb 46 stableford point total. Starting on hole 10, Hage & Atherton took the course apart on their outward nine (24 points), which featured four net birdies and a net eagle before a better than average inward nine saw them to a comfortable victory. Hage was particularly impressive on the first nine although Atherton’s experience came to the fore as he guided the team home.
Andy Scanlon & Chris Tometzki might have been forgiven for thinking their 44-point total had given them a chance of victory as they followed up a fantastic start with steady play all day. A brilliant birdie, net eagle from Scanlon on their 16th hole might well have sealed the win on any other day but ultimately, Scanlon & Tometzki had to settle for the runners-up prize.
Completing the podium line-up was the experienced pairing of Sheila Alban & Jett Smith, who scored 43 points as a bogey on their 17th hole proved costly.
Nearest-the-Pin prizes were on offer and these were won by Amanda Barratt and Steve Bennett on holes 2 and 17 respectively. In a new addition to International Pairs UAE, Official Hotel, Yas Viceroy is holding a draw at every Qualifier with a stay at the luxury resort on offer. Andy Barker was the lucky recipient at Arabian Ranches Golf Club!
Tech Access International Pairs UAE Presented by Cadillac is also supported by Rivoli Group, Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi, City & Welcare Hospitals, Nike Golf, Sport 360, Worldwide Golf and UAE Golf Online
Main photo: International Pairs UAE Arabian Ranches Qualifier winners, Rania Hage & Graham Atherton, pictured with Francois Wolfaardt, Director of Golf, Arabian Ranches.
