This Week in Golf: Dubai's best take on Delhi's ultimate test at HERO Indian Open
This week, the HERO Indian Open takes center stage as DLF Golf & Country Club in Delhi hosts one of the toughest and most prestigious events on the DP World Tour calendar.
Known for its challenging layout, DLF is both a golfer's dream and a nightmare. Whether you're watching it on TV or stepping up to its fairways, it demands mental strength and precision like few other courses can.
Among the stellar field, a strong UAE contingent will make their presence felt, with several Dubai-based players poised to make waves.
Fresh from a breakthrough victory in Singapore, Richard Mansell (ENG) enters the tournament full of confidence. Alongside him, Johannes Veerman (US), Julien Guerrier (FR), Ewen Ferguson (SCO), and Guido Migliozzi (IT) bring a wealth of experience to the course.
But it's the UAE's own Adrian Otaegui and Shiv Kapur who will undoubtedly steal the spotlight, with Kapur being a local favorite who knows the DLF course like the back of his hand.
Strong Dubai presence
What makes this year's HERO Indian Open particularly exciting is the strong showing of Dubai-based players. Six of the top 11 in the Entry List Category 3 —which includes DP World Tour winners from tournaments with purses over $2 million—are all Dubai residents.
This growing trend of top-tier golfers calling Dubai home is a testament to the city's burgeoning reputation as a golf powerhouse. The UAE's favorable climate, and top-notch facilities make it an ideal base for golfers looking to sharpen their skills in the winter months.
One notable player in this group is Rafa Cabrera Bello (ESP), a Dubai Golden Visa recipient, who is seeking to turn his recent form around. After a string of disappointing results, Cabrera Bello is hoping the DLF layout will be the perfect place for him to rediscover his best.
Spotlight on Rayhan Thomas
But it's not just seasoned pros who are in the spotlight. Rayhan Thomas (IND), born and raised in Dubai, is competing in the HERO Indian Open for the second time. Thomas, who is also an ambassador for Dubai Basketball, has been struggling with his form on the Korn Ferry Tour but remains optimistic.
'It's great to be back in tournament mode,' said Thomas after a practice round. 'I've had a rough patch, but I know that just a few good holes or a solid round can turn things around. Delhi is a tough course, and you need to be at your best, especially with the driver. If you play well, you'll score well. But if not, it can be a long week.'
Rayhan's journey to the HERO Indian Open is a testament to the resilience required to succeed in professional golf. 'I've spent some time in Dubai with my family, and I'm feeling energized,' he continued. 'I'm ready to hit the course again and see where I can take my game this week.'
With the HERO Indian Open set to deliver a thrilling mix of competition and drama, all eyes will be on these Dubai-based players as they take on one of the world's most demanding golf courses. From seasoned veterans like Mansell and Cabrera Bello to rising stars like Thomas, this week promises to be a memorable one for the UAE's golfing contingent.
KEY TOURNAMENTS THIS WEEK:
PGA Tour
Texas Children's Houston Open
Thursday 27th – Sunday 30th March, 2025
Venue: Memorial Park Golf Course
Purse: $9.5 million
DP World Tour
HERO Indian Open
Thursday 27th – Sunday 30th March, 2025
Venue: DLF Golf & Country Club, Delhi, India
Purse: $2.25 million
Clutch Pro Tour
Tuesday 25th – Thursday 27th March, 2025
Venue: La Vie, Muscat, Oman
Purse: £50,000
LPGA
Ford Championship presented by Wild Horse Pass
Thursday 27th – Sunday 30th March, 2025
Venue: Whirlwind Golf Club, Chandler, Arizona, US
Purse: $2.25 million
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Khaleej Times
an hour ago
- Khaleej Times
Dubai's Godolphin take centre stage on a day of rivalries at Royal Ascot
Royal Ascot, the greatest show on turf is back and Tuesday's opener promises a rich mixture of revenge stories, future superstar spotting, and veteran class. Godolphin, the powerful Dubai-owned stable come into the Royal meeting with an army of contenders — a nice blend of proven performers and up-and-comers - and a lot to prove. The first day's racing will provide the perfect snapshot of their depth and ability to add to their haul of 57 winners at the three-century-old extravaganza. Whether it's the 2,000 Guineas (G1) king Ruling Court, the unbeaten 2-year-old Military Code, or veteran Ascot winner Passion And Glory Tuesday promises stories at every stride and every turn. Who's the headline act from Godolphin? Notable Speech, last year's 2,000 Guineas (G1) winner, is back for another showdown with Dubai-owned Rosallion in the Group 1 Queen Anne (5.30 UAE). Run over a mile, the Queen Anne Stakes always produces drama and is a fitting start to Royal Ascot. It is the first of eight Group 1 contests from 35 thrilling races that will be staged over the next five days. Tuesday's showpiece is the third meeting between Notable Speech and Rosallion. Rosallion represents Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum, winner of the 1998 Epsom Derby with High Rise. Notable Speech struck first in the 2000 Guineas before Rosallion turned the tables in the St James's Palace last season. Assessing Notable Speech's chances of winning the third clash between the two top milers, Godolphin handler Charlie Appleby says: 'Notable Speech comes into this in great order. The Lockinge was his first start of the year, and we're expecting him to come forward from it.' Picture this as a title fight – with both gallopers 1-1 going into the decider. Notable rivals include the first two home in the Lockinge Stakes (G1) at Newbury – Juddmonte's Lead Artist and the Roger Teal-trained Dancing Gemini. Stablemate Ruling Court also faces a rematch with 2,000 Guineas runner-up as he takes on Field Of Gold again in the G1 St James's Palace Stakes. Half a length separated the duo at Newmarket, with Juddmonte Stables-owned Field Of Gold going on to frank the form in the G1 Irish 2,000 Guineas. Ruling Court was an intended runner in the G1 Epsom Derby earlier in the month but missed the race due to unfavourable ground conditions. Appleby said: 'We took Ruling Court out of the Derby due to the ground, and we can have no excuses with conditions at Ascot. It's a very good renewal of the race and the track and trip will suit. 'We are looking at stepping up in trip at some point, but he has done very little wrong over a mile so far.' Is there a 'dark horse'? Military Code, an unbeaten two-year-old heads into the Group 2 Coventry Stakes (3.05 UAE), Royal Ascot's flagship showdown for two-year-olds, with a perfect record and a rapidly growing reputation. After making a stylish debut during Newmarket's Craven meeting, the Charlie Appleby-trained son of Wootton Bassett backed it up by shouldering a penalty to score again at Ascot last month. Now we'll find out if he's got what it takes to mix it with the best of his generation. 'It's a big step up in class, but we're excited to see if he belongs at this level. His form is rock solid, and hopefully, we'll be competitive,' said Appleby Watch this lad; we might be looking at a future Guineas contender in the making. Anything for the veteran fans? Saeed bin Suroor's course specialist Passion And Glory is 2-for-2 at Ascot and drops back in a trip for the Wolferton (5.35 UAE). A nine-year-old son of Cape Cross. Passion And Glory finished a commendable fourth behind stablemate Dubai Future in the Group 1 Dubai Gold Cup on World Cup night and takes his chances in this competitive contest. 'It's a nice spot for him. He loves it here, and we're hopeful of a big run, said Bin Suroor who is looking for his 40th Royal Ascot winner. Don't be surprised if the veteran, who landed the Group 3 Glorious Stakes win back in 2021 will be able to keep that spotless record alive on Tuesday. Also in the Wolferton mix is Appleby's Military Order winner of the Group 3 Winter Derby back in February who now gets a chance to show what he can do on quicker ground at Ascot. 'Military Order is in great shape and I'm keen to see how he handles a faster surface. If he can bring his all-weather form to the turf, he could be a very interesting contender here,' Appleby said. Appleby is trying something different in the relatively new Copper Horse Stakes (9:10), a handicap over about 1 mile 6 furlongs. Introduced in 2020 as part of an expanded Royal Ascot programme, it closed out the opening day and has quickly become a fixture for staying types on the big stage 'It's a question mark for him, but we're hoping it brings improvement. If we get the trip and a bit of luck in running, we should be thereabouts,' said Appleby It's a bold move, but sometimes Royal Ascot is all about letting horses find their feet in a new discipline. 3 Things to watch on Tuesday: The showdown: Notable Speech vs Rosallion. This rivalry is nicely poised at 1-1- Tuesday decides it. The future: Military Code in the Coventry. He's 2-for-2 and a potential superstar in the making. The course lover: Passion And Glory.
Khaleej Times
3 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
UAE: From KG graduations to exams, how schools are gearing up for summer break
Schools across the UAE are preparing for the final stretch before the long summer break, with many institutions wrapping up first-term assessments, hosting competitions, award ceremonies, graduation events, and prom nights. The last day of school for most Dubai private schools following the September to June academic calendar is June 27, 2025. However, some Indian-curriculum schools will continue until June 30 before breaking for summer. Schools will resume classes after the summer break on August 25. First-term evaluations At Credence High School, teachers are managing multiple priorities as the term closes, ensuring a seamless balance between academics and co-curricular celebrations. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. 'Teachers are completing first-term evaluations while preparing enrichment opportunities that will bridge into our second term, ensuring continuous learning momentum. Our assessment protocols ensure accurate first-term reporting, while our event management procedures allow us to simultaneously deliver world-class competitions and academic ceremonies without compromising educational standards,' said Deepika Thapar, principal of Credence High School. The school is ending the term on a high note with a flurry of activities. 'These final days have been extraordinary. We have simultaneously hosted the UAE CBSE Judo Championship for both girls and boys — a major sporting achievement at our school. Our Early Years students are celebrating with 'Joy Fest,' while older students compete in the iCreate Interschool Competition focusing on AI and STEM innovation. Combined with our award ceremonies recognising academic and extracurricular excellence, these events showcase the complete Credence experience — academic rigor, athletic achievement, and creative innovation,' added Thapar. While Indian schools conclude their first term, international curricula schools are marking the end of their academic year with celebratory and academic events. At GEMS World Academy in Abu Dhabi, the final fortnight is equally charged with energy and reflection. 'Our campus is bustling with celebration and planning for the future as the last two weeks of the academic year draw near. As we prepare for the next phases of our students' academic and personal journeys, our community is uniting to commemorate significant events, such as our unforgettable graduation ceremonies, where we honour the accomplishments and goals of our students,' said Principal Kelvin Hornsby. Looking ahead, the school is also preparing students for a productive break. 'Additionally, we are providing a variety of summer learning programmes to assist students in strengthening fundamental abilities, rekindling their curiosity, and getting ready with assurance for the upcoming school year. Students can take advantage of an exciting on-campus summer programme that offers enriching activities in innovation, enterprise, physical wellbeing, and national identity through partnerships with ESM Sports, 8billionideas, and Sandooq Al Watan,' he added. Celebrations at Dubai Opera House Meanwhile, at GEMS Wellington Academy – Silicon Oasis (WSO), end-of-year transitions are marked by a series of significant events across the school community. 'As the academic year draws to a close, WSO is alive with celebration and preparation. Primary students have met their new teachers on Transition Day, while secondary learners continue their exams with focus and determination. Graduations and proms for Foundation Stage, Year 6, Year 11 and Year 13 mark key milestones, and academic and sporting awards highlight student excellence,' said Principal Sarah O'Regan. The school's creativity is also on full display, with students gearing up for a showstopping performance. 'Our performing arts team is working hard, preparing for the epic Wellington Gala at the Dubai Opera House on June 20, showcasing talent from across the GEMS network. And yet, even with all of these exciting events very much a art of our final weeks, staff remain busy finalising reports, concluding learning, and readying the site for exciting summer improvements, rounding off another exceptional year at WSO,' O'Regan added.
Khaleej Times
a day ago
- Khaleej Times
Dubai-based karting prodigy Atiqa Mir joins AKCEL GP Academy's professional racing programme
Atiqa Mir, a 10-year-old Dubai-based Indian karting prodigy, has become the youngest driver from the region to secure a place in a professional motorsport development programme, following her signing as an official AKCEL GP Academy Driver. This landmark move signals a powerful shift in motorsport accessibility and diversity, reinforcing the UAE's commitment to nurturing next-generation talent and establishing itself as a global hub for motorsport excellence. A rising star in the karting circuit, Atiqa has already made a name for herself with her fearless driving, consistent podium finishes, and an unwavering passion for racing. She has competed in some of the world's most prestigious karting championships, including the Rotax Euro Trophy, Rotax International Trophy, IAME Series (UAE and Europe), WSK Euro Series, WSK Super Master Series, and the Champions of the Future Academy. The timing of this partnership aligns with the official launch of the AKCEL GP Academy—the cornerstone development initiative of AKCEL GP, the UAE-based high-performance motorsport team competing in FIA F4, Formula Regional Middle East Championship, and FIA F3. As Atiqa begins her training in Abu Dhabi, she will follow a carefully structured development programme designed to prepare young drivers for the demands of professional motorsport. 'Racing is everything to me. It's where I feel strong, fast, and free. Joining AKCEL GP Academy is a dream come true, and I want to show young girls like me from Dubai and India that we can compete at the highest levels," she said. "One day, I hope to race in Formula 1, and I'm ready to work hard to get there.'
