Nair and O'Neill win Dubai Creek Race to Korea qualifier, edge closer to WAGC dream
Druv Nair (7) and Sam O'Neill (12) showcased their golfing prowess to claim top honours in Division 1 and Division 2, respectively, at the fourth qualifying round of the 2025 Race to Korea, presented by Dugasta - taking a step toward the UAE Grand Final.
With 43 players teeing off in one of 17 qualifying rounds across the UAE at the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, the stakes were high. Both Nair and O'Neill demonstrated resilience and precision under pressure, earning their place among the top five divisional winners who now advance to the UAE Grand Final at Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa on May 17.
A strong performance there could see them take the ultimate step—securing a coveted spot at the World Final of the World Amateur Golfers Championship (WAGC) in Jeju Island, South Korea, later this year.
For Nair and O'Neill, this win isn't just about topping a leaderboard—it's a statement of intent as they edge closer to their goal of representing the UAE on the global stage.
Nair's round was highlighted by gross birdies on holes 6, 10, and 13, carding solid nines of 39 and 37. His commanding performance saw him finish a staggering five shots clear of his nearest competitor in Division 1.
O'Neill, meanwhile, set the pace early, with a dazzling front nine of 37 gross. He remained steady on the back nine, navigating the closing stretch with composure—even playing holes 17 and 18 in sixes—to clinch victory in Division 2 by three strokes.
Praise for the Event
Speaking at the prize presentation, Russell Yeomans, promoter of the Race to Korea through Sport2Business, lauded the day's competition:
"We've had another superb day at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club. A big thank you to the club for their fantastic hosting and to all the members for their continued support. Our next Race to Korea qualifier will be held at Jumeirah Golf Estates on Sunday, March 23, over the Fire Course."
Sanctioned by the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF), the Race to Korea is open to all male and female golfers aged 18 and over with an EGF Handicap of 25 or lower.
Golf Genius Password: CGWDCY
Division 1 (5.4 and Under)
D. Nair (7) – 69
Division 2 (5.5 – 10.4)
S. O'Neill (12) – 69
Division 3 (10.5 – 15.4)
D. Vermonden (19) – 73
Division 4 (15.5 – 20.4)
M. Gerami (27) – 72
Division 5 (20.5 – 25.4)
R. Schepens (27) – 70
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