Victory for Valencia and Emmanuel at Al Ghazal Golf Club
The 2011-12 Tech Access International Pairs UAE Presented by Cadillac paid its first visit to a sand course on Friday 27th January as members of Al Ghazal Golf Club had their opportunity to play for a coveted place in the National Final and the chance to win a luxury trip to Scotland to compete in the International Pairs World Final. This was also the final visit to the capital this season for International Pairs UAE before al the Qualifier winners gather at Yas Links for the National Final in June.
In contrast to the gale-force shamal experienced during the corresponding event in 2011, perfect conditions were welcome and ensured some high-quality scoring. Once all the cards were returned, only three points separated the top-4 positions but thanks to a strong finish that featured five net birdies in their last nine holes, Rene Valencia and Ramesh Emmanuel emerged victorious with a 41-point total. 6-handicapper Valencia, provided anearly boost with a net eagle on their second hole as both players went on to contribute to the winning tally.
The better-ball stableford format was also perfect for Steve Coulson and Bob Malone as they compiled steady nines of 20 points but came up short by a solitary point. Coulson’s front-9 provided the backbone of the team score where he scored three net birdies and four net pars. Third place was taken by Davids Parkinson and Tait who started the day with a pair of net birdies but unfortunately faltered slightly on the inward nine where they managed only 18 points.
The Al Ghazal Golf Club International Pairs UAE Qualifier was the 9th in the 2011-12 series. Rene Valencia and Ramesh Emmanuel join representatives from Arabian Ranches Golf Club, Abu Dhabi City Golf Club, Els Club, Yas Links, Emirates Golf Club, Al Hamra Golf Club, Tower Links Golf Club and The Montgomerie Dubai who have already secured berths in the National Final.
Tech Access International Pairs UAE Presented by Cadillac is also supported by Diamond Developers, Acuma Wealth Management, Cansco, Rivoli Group, Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi, City & Welcare Hospitals, Royal Caribbean International, Nike Golf, 7Days, Worldwide Golf and UAE Golf Online.
Photo: International Pairs UAE Al Ghazal Golf Club Qualifier winners, Rene Valencia and Ramesh Emmanuel, pictured with Club Captain, Peter McManus.
