Editors Comment

The Dubai World Championship future beyond 2011

Believe it or not the 3rd Dubai World Championship is just over 6 months away

Believe it or not the 3rd Dubai World Championship is just over 6 months away. Firstly, what I hear you all say is “where has that time gone?” I certainly agree on that one! The first 2 events have come and gone with the speed of a Tiger swing and if you was not here you missed out.

Again, Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai  will hold the event and the initial deal of 3 years with the European Tour comes to an end. There was talk of an option to extend this deal by 2 years, but you have to wonder where it will be the coming year.

I think that the 2 events previously have been a total success both on and off the course. Considering the well documented financial problems for the ownership and Dubai in general, it certainly will be interesting to see what evolves after this years event. There’s a possibility of not only a new venue in the UAE or the region, but also a name change.

Recently at the KPMG gathering in Dubai earlier this year, George O’ Grady of the European Tour did not give nothing away but sounded like they are in on-going Dubai World Championship talks.

My feeling is that it may be going to Abu Dhabi, I do not have any information on that, it is just a little inclination of mine. Can you imagine Yas Links holding the event? It would make a superb venue and great finale at the best Golf Course in the region.
Does the title The Race to Abu Dhabi or The Race to the Emirates sound any good? They do both have a ring to them I must admit.

There are of course other potential courses in the region, maybe the event will rotate around a few of the GCC countries and be named to suit that. I do not think this will happen and will be a shame if it does as the crowds are simply not there yet in some countries. The event might even be staying at Jumeirah for another 2 years which would not be a bad thing. Judging by previous evidence, we have been privileged to watch some great Golf in a relaxed atmosphere. The Golf has been a superb spectacle and a pleasure to be involved with.

Roll on December… it all comes down to this

What are your thoughts?

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