Latest news with #BrandondeSouza
Khaleej Times
11-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
The Final Showdown: Who will seize the Ultimate Golf Challenge Season 2 crown?
The stakes couldn't be higher as the Ultimate Golf Challenge Season 2 hurtles toward its epic finale this Thursday, February 13, at the Emirates Golf Club's legendary Majlis Course. With two grueling rounds behind them and the leaderboard razor-thin, the top teams are primed for a high-stakes showdown where every shot could make or break their championship dreams. The Noble Legacy Masters, who dominated the opening round at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, still hold the top spot with 467 points. However, their once-comfortable lead has been cut to just 10 points, leaving the door wide open for a dramatic conclusion to Dubai's hugely popular social golf event. Hot on their heels are the Meteora Masters (457) and the defending champions, Tristar Gladiators (456), both within striking distance. With 300 points still up for grabs in the final round, it's truly anyone's title to win. Tournament Director Brandon de Souza praised the rising level of competition and the event's rapid growth in just two years: 'The Ultimate Golf Challenge has grown in leaps and bounds,' said De Sousa a former Champions golf from India. 'The quality of play, the level of engagement from players and team owners, and the sheer excitement surrounding this tournament are remarkable. 'With 37 out of 50 pairs scoring 41 points or better in Round 2, it shows how competitive this event has become. Given the commitment from all involved, the UGC has the potential to evolve into something even bigger in the years to come.' The biggest storyline from Round 2 was the remarkable resurgence of the Alpha Ninjas. Co-owned by Manu Jeswani and Sanjay Advani, the team stormed back from ninth place in Round 1 to finish fifth overall after a dominant showing at the Faldo Course. With four pairs finishing in the top five, the Ninjas have made a bold statement, firmly positioning themselves as serious title contenders. Sanjay Advani captured the team's fighting spirit, saying: 'As we said, don't count us out. We kept our word. The players gave it their all, and this is the result. We were just warming up in Round 1, but now we've found our momentum, and we're carrying it into the finale.' Another team to impress was The A Team, initially finishing third in Round 2. However, a scoring adjustment saw them drop in the standings. Despite the setback, big-hitter Nikhil Kohli Kohli remained upbeat, reflecting on his team's performance: 'It was a total team effort, and my partnership with Nonita (Chand) really clicked—that really helped. At the end of the day, I'm very happy with what we achieved as a whole. I think the format is beautiful because it gives everyone a chance to perform and come back, even if they are down,' he said. Nikhil also highlighted the unwavering support of team owners Aman and Ayesha Chopra and mentor Badru Hilal: 'Their encouragement makes a huge difference. It motivates us, improves our game, and keeps morale high.' The Majlis Awaits The legendary Majlis Course, home to historic moments from the likes of Rory McIlroy, Tiger Woods, and Seve Ballesteros, will provide the ultimate stage for this dramatic finale. With the championship on the line, expect a display of fearless drives, clutch putts, and high-stakes drama. With the leaderboard stacked and the stakes higher than ever, all eyes are on the Majlis. Who will rise to the occasion and etch their name in Ultimate Golf Challenge history? We're about to find out. Final Round Format Each team nominates 10 players Individual Stableford format Best 8 scores count towards the final team total Current Team Standings (After Round 2) Noble Legacy Masters (292 + 175) - 467 Meteora Masters (271 + 186) - 457 Tristar Gladiators (277 + 179) - 456 Shershaah Eagles (277 + 183) - 454 Alpha Ninjas (255 + 195) - 450 The A Team (289 + 180) - 449 Sultans of Swing (276 + 169) - 445 Three Comma Masters (259 + 173) - 432 Desert Knights (258 + 159) - 417 The Brain & Performance Centre (229 + 172) - 401 Final round details Where: Majlis Course | Emirates Golf Club When: Thursday, February 13 Tee-off: 1:00pm
Khaleej Times
06-02-2025
- Sport
- Khaleej Times
High stakes at the Faldo as the Ultimate Golf Challenge Season 2 hits pivotal middle round
As the Ultimate Golf Challenge Season 2 reaches its pivotal middle round, all eyes turn to the Emirates Golf Club's Faldo Course on Friday, February 7. With the competition tightening and teams vying for crucial points, Tournament Director Brandon de Souza offers key insights into what to expect from Round 2. 'It's very straightforward—the combinations are going to be key,' said de Souza. 'It's not about everyone thinking they have a chance because the scores will go low. I don't think so. You've got to combine brilliantly. It's only one score per hole that counts.' With 18 players from Round 1 having their handicaps cut, de Souza believes this will level the playing field and bring out the best in the competition." 'The beauty of the format, apart from Day 1 where we had some high scoring, is that now it's going to even out a bit,' he explained. ' Teams will still think they're in with a chance because, on the final day, they'll have eight out of ten scores counting. The event has been curated to keep everyone engaged, ensuring every team has something to play for until the final round." With defending champions Tristar Gladiators eager to keep their title hopes alive, co-owner Mukesh Kochar dismissed the pressure factor despite finishing second best behind The Noble Legacy Masters in Round 1 last week. 'Most of our players are used to pressure,' Mukesh said. 'Any game you play comes with pressure, and it's something you have to cope with, not oppose. The good thing is we're playing on a course we know well, and we're also familiar with the skill levels of our rival players.' Meanwhile, The A Team is looking to capitalize on home comforts at Emirates Golf Club to put themselves into contention. Co-owner Aman Chopra and mentor Badru Hilal have been busy strategizing to ensure the squad heads into Round 2 with confidence. 'We'll put strong pairings together to keep players positive and help them to play their best,' said Badru. 'The Emirates is our home course, so we'll embrace that advantage and use it to our benefit. Everyone has the potential to play well here—we just want them to show up and bring the best versions of themselves.' The Alpha Ninjas, coming off a slow start at Dubai Creek, are determined to make their move in Round 2. 'Look, the camp is feeling optimistic and still backing themselves,' said co-owner Sanjay Advani. 'The format for Round 2 suits our style of play and will help our players improve their games. "Our players are motivated; they know what they have to do. It's just about putting everything in place and keeping the right perspective.' As the action tees off at 12:30 PM, Sanjay is confident his team is ready to step up and give it their best shot. 'I think we're one of the most underrated teams in the competition, but I have no doubt we'll be in contention for the title this year,' he says. One team aiming to soar is the Shershah Eagles. Named after the Bollywood blockbuster Shershah and inspired by the bravery of the late Captain Vikram Batra the protagonist in the film, the team made a strong statement in Round 1. Key performances from Najla Bartette & Prateek Pant (76 points) and Avani Shah & Alireza Haji (75 points) placed them in the top three. With Round 2 tees off on Friday the Eagles will be looking to fly even higher. The Brain & Performance Centre has also been turning heads in its debut UGC appearance. The duo of Nicsha Rodriguez & Yana Jamieson delivered a solid performance at Dubai Creek, tying for third place. Now, as the action moves to the Faldo Course, they'll aim to build on that momentum. With its tight fairways, tricky bunkers, and water hazards testing every shot, the Faldo Course demands precision ensuring this round could be a game-changer.
Khaleej Times
29-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Dubai golf fever hits new heights as UGC Season 2 tees off at the Dubai Creek
The long wait is over, and the stage is set for Season 2 of the highly-anticipated Ultimate Golf Challenge (UGC), Dubai's premier franchise-based social golf tournament. With 10 formidable teams, 140 passionate players, and three action-packed rounds across some of the UAE's most iconic courses, anticipation is at an all-time high. With 10 formidable teams, 140 passionate players, and three exhilarating rounds across some of the UAE's most iconic courses, excitement is reaching fever pitch. Unmistakable Excitement Brandon de Souza, event curator, summed up the mood perfectly: 'The excitement is unmistakable. In just a year the UGC has evolved into something more than just a golf tournament - it's a celebration of camaraderie, competition, and inclusivity. It brings together golfers of all levels, ages, and backgrounds, and that's what makes it truly special.' The tournament tees off on Thursday January 30, at the scenic Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club. The action then moves to the Faldo Course at Emirates Golf Club on February 7, before culminating in a grand finale on February 13. at the world-renowned Majlis Course, the same venue that hosted the HERO Dubai Desert Classic just two weeks ago. The teams will battle it out in unique formats that reward consistency, teamwork, and mental resilience. On Day 1, each team will nominate two sub-teams of five players each, with the four best Stableford scores from each sub-team counting toward the team total. Teams with a Mission Each of the 10 teams is fuelled by ambition, with franchise owners and mentors playing a pivotal role in shaping their squads. For the Sultans of Swing, this season holds a profound significance. Playing in memory of former teammate Rohan Malhotra, who tragically passed away at a young age, the team is determined to honor his legacy. 'Rohan wasn't just a teammate—he was the heartbeat of our squad, the one who united us with his spirit and energy,' said co-owner Sanjay Pahwa. Unity & Camaraderie The Alpha Ninjas, led by mentor Kabir Luthra, are built on a foundation of camaraderie and competition. Luthra's vision is not just about winning but about shaping Dubai's social golf scene through unity and lasting player relationships. "Golf is tough. If you're not having fun, it becomes even harder," he says. "My message to the team is simple: relax, have a blast, and let the natural camaraderie do the rest. When there's banter and fun, the performance follows naturally." Meanwhile, The A Team, co-owned by Ayesha and Aman Chopra, are looking to build on their impressive third-place finish last season. Newcomer Maura Duggan is eager to make an impact. 'I watched the UGC last year, and everyone looked like they were having the time of their lives. Joining The A Team has been an incredible experience. The energy and positivity Ayesha and Aman bring are infectious. I can't wait for our first game on Thursday.' Champions in the Making The Shershaah Eagles are another squad with unfinished business. After finishing runners-up in Season 1, co-owner Harry Gandhi is confident they have assembled a squad with the hunger to go all the way. 'We've worked hard to build a well-rounded team. It's not just about talent - it's about mental toughness and the drive to compete at the highest level,' says Gandhi. Another exciting entry this season is The Brain & Performance Center, A DP World Compnay. The team that blends golf with a focus on mental and physical resilience and owner Gwillym Poole is excited about the platform UGC provides. 'We see sports, particularly golf, as a perfect alignment with our commitment to well-being. This tournament is about much more than competition- it's about fostering a holistic approach to the game,' Poole says. The Bigger Picture Beyond the action on the course, UGC is on a mission to redefine franchise golf in the UAE and beyond. Tournament commissioner Kunal Seth harbours ambitious plans for its expansion. 'The UGC started with a vision to bring passionate golfers together. Our long-term goal is to take this format global, with UAE teams competing internationally. We're only just getting started.' With teams ready, rivalries brewing, and an electric atmosphere building, Season 2 of the Ultimate Golf Challenge promises to be a spectacle like no other. As the first tee shots are struck, one thing is certain - Dubai's golfing scene is in for an unforgettable ride. When: Thursday, Jan 30 Where: Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club Tee off time: 12:45 pm Format: Shotgun start Dates Round 1 : 30th January, 2025 @ Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club Round 2 : 7th February, 2025 @ Faldo Course, Emirates Golf Club Round 3 : 13th February, 2025 @ Majlis Course, Emirates Golf Club (Walking) Teams Number of teams: 10 Number of players per team: 14 100 players on a match day (all 14 must play at least one round) Team composition: Owner may retain/nominate a maximum of eight plyers for their total squad of 14. ALSO READ Unique 'Ultimate Golf Challenge' a certified success in its first season Team Tristar Gladiators power to victory in Ultimate Team Golf Challenge Team Petrochem Condors swoop for glory at inaugural Ultimate Golf Challenge Unforgettable showdowns await as Ultimate Golf Challenge returns for Season 2 Player Auction triggers excitement as Tournament Director declares, 'The UGC is here to stay'
Khaleej Times
28-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Brandon de Souza's ‘magical' vision for UGC drives Dubai's golf community to fever pitch
With just 48 hours to go, the Ultimate Golf Challenge (UGC) is gearing up to take over Dubai's fairways and for Brandon de Souza, curator and tournament director, the event represents the realization of a vision he's nurtured for years. A former Indian champion golfer, Brandon has poured his heart into crafting what he repeatedly described as a 'magical' tournament. Reflecting on the energy surrounding this year's event, Brandon's pride is palpable. This much-anticipated amateur team event has captured the imagination of many and brought the city's golf community to fever pitch. 'For a start, with so many teams returning, it shows they really believe in the idea and its potential to grow,' Brandon said. 'The enthusiasm and energy are at fever pitch. Team owners have made a special effort to improve and engage with fans and audiences. They're really getting behind it.' Brandon's joy in seeing what the UGC has matured into is unmistakable. He pointed to stories like the Sultans of Swing dedicating their performance to a former player, Rohan Malhotra, who passed away at a young age. 'There's so much emotion and passion in gestures like this,' Brandon said. 'It's what makes the UGC unique. Unlike professional leagues where team owners watch from the sidelines, here, some of them are even part of the team. They're selecting squads, bringing friends together, and forming connections with new people. The UGC is competitive, but it's also about camaraderie. That's the beauty of it.' New formats This year's tournament introduces new formats designed to make the experience transparent and inclusive for all participants. 'The three formats for the three days are all very different,' Brandon explained. 'Day one is a cumulative score of the team's best four pairs. Day two is Best Ball Stableford, where pairs play together. "On the final day, it's the best eight out of ten scores. Importantly, all 14 players on a team must play at least one round, ensuring everyone feels part of it. It's a happy mix of formats, and I hope spectators come out to cheer for them.' One of the key features of the UGC is its ability to bring together players of different skill levels and backgrounds. Generational Bond 'Golf is the greatest game because it bridges generations and skill levels,' Brandon said. 'You can play from the age of four to 80. Thanks to handicapping, even a beginner has a chance to beat a more experienced player. It's a wonderful cross-section of the golf community, bringing together friends, clients, and club members.' As the UGC grows, Brandon envisions it becoming a bigger and more global event. 'I hope we can grow from 10 to maybe 16 teams and extend the event to six days,' he said. 'Eventually, I'd love to see UGC champions play abroad, like we've done with leagues in India. 'There, events have up to 24 teams, and during that time, everything comes to a standstill. Families come out, clubs rally around their teams, and everyone's in team colours. It's just magical. I see the UGC reaching that level.' Milestone Moment For Brandon, hosting the UGC in Dubai for the second year feels like a milestone in his journey with the sport. 'This year, the teams are better prepared,' he said. 'There's been so much thought and passion put into team selection. The strategy meetings show the intent to win, but at the same time, it's about enjoying the journey. 'For me, having nurtured this concept from its early days in India to now hosting it in Dubai is deeply satisfying. I'm incredibly grateful to Joe (Andrade), Kunal (Seth), and Paryank (Shah) for bringing me back here. I think it's going to be a magical event.' As the opening tee-off approaches, Brandon's vision for the Ultimate Golf Challenge is clear: a tournament that blends competition with unforgettable camaraderie, creating memories that he hopes will last long after the final putt drops. ALSO READ
