Obaid and Maryam excel at the EGF Par 3 league at the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club

Obaid Khalid Mubarak and Maryam Al Marzouqi held their nerves when it mattered most to win the Emirates Golf Federation’s Par-3 League title at Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club at the weekend.

Obaid carded a gross 32 on the par-27 course to take the honours in Division A for players aged 16 and under. The youngster beat his nearest rival Omar Al Shehhi by a good four shot, comfortably keeping his dominance in the field.

Maryam was equally impressive in her Division B (under-12) which was played over six holes when she signed off with a 36 gross, winning the title by seven strokes.

Young Khalifa Omar also made it to the podium, winning the nearest to the pin prize on hole nine. The tournament, which is aimed introducing young UAE nationals to golf, turned out to be a success with 20 players lining up for honours.

Part of a series of events spread over a period of time, the tournament had the family feel to it with parents helping their wards in carrying bags and maintaining scores.

Saeed Albudoor, general manager of the Emirates Golf Federation, said the par-3 series is picking up steam with many new youngsters signing up for the event. “I think the credit must go to the parents for encouraging their children to take to the game.

“Playing golf is fun and that’s the message we try to drive home through these league events. If the enthusiasm of young children is any indication, I think we are moving in the right direction.”

Results: Division A (under-16): 1. Obaid Khalid Mubarak 32 gross, 2. Omar Al Shehhi 36
gross (countback on the last 6 holes)
Division B (under-12 played over six holes): 1. Maryam Al Marzouqi 27 gross, 2.
Mahmoud Skaik 34 gross Nearest to the pin (hole 9): khalifa Omar

Pic caption: Saeed Albudoor, general manager of Emirates Golf Federation, with the prize winners at Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club