Al Zayed defends Bahrain Open title as Woollacott claims Ladies crown
Ahmed Mohamed Al Zayed successfully defended his Bahrain Open title while England's Helen Woollacott captured her first Bahrain Ladies Open victory in a thrilling conclusion to the 60th edition of the tournament at Awali Golf Club yesterday.
Al Zayed carded a superb second-round 69 to finish at one-over-par 143, holding off a strong challenge from Khalifa Duaij Al Kaabi (70) by two strokes. The champion overcame a late bogey on the 17th before sealing victory with a composed par on the final hole. Matthew Chalmers claimed third place at 145 after rounds of 73 and 72.
In the Ladies Open, Woollacott produced a remarkable turnaround, firing an 88 to erase a four-shot deficit and win by three strokes over Susan Scott (91). Defending champion Hanne Hansen finished third at 95. The Englishwoman's victory came courtesy of a brilliant front-nine 42 that transformed the competition.
The tournament began in challenging conditions with strong winds affecting scoring during Saturday's opening round. Sultan Abdullah Al Hakam had initially led the men's field with a 70, while Scott headed the women's competition after an opening 89. Awali Golf Club officials expressed gratitude to sponsors including Bapco Energies, Intercontinental Regency, and Gulf Air for their support. The event concluded with a prize ceremony where tournament directors praised volunteers and highlighted Bahrain's growing golf tradition.
'These championships showcase the very best of Bahraini golf,' said Captain Steve Newall during the presentation. 'The skill on display and the sportsmanship between competitors embodies why this tournament remains so special after six decades.'
The dual victories mark another successful chapter for Bahrain's flagship golf event, with Al Zayed becoming only the fourth player to win backto-back men's titles in the tournament's 60-year history.
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