Latest news with #RayanAhmed
Khaleej Times
4 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Driven by a Dream: Rayan Ahmed on a mission to represent the UAE at the Olympics
For 18-year-old Rayan Ahmed, golf is more than a sport—it's a purpose-driven path. A member of the UAE National Men's Team and one of the most promising amateur golfers in the region, Rayan's goals stretch far beyond winning tournaments. His ultimate dream is to represent the UAE at the Olympic Games—a goal he's steadily working toward. Already a trailblazer, he became the first golfer from the UAE to qualify for and compete in both the US Junior Amateur and the US Amateur. But Rayan isn't only chasing milestones and birdies. Even as he trains with intensity and plays at elite levels, he's just as committed to his academics. It's not a backup plan. For Rayan, it's the blueprint for a dual career—professional golf alongside a future in business leadership—all while staying grounded in his mantra: 'Dream Big, respect All, outwork All, remain teachable and disciplined.' Already with five WAGR wins, a +3.3 handicap, and a ranking inside the top 520 in the world, Rayan is shaping more than a career—he's shaping a mission. Alongside his achievements, he's determined to expand the reach of golf to the underprivileged and to carry the UAE flag on international stages. Earlier this month, that mission took another major step forward. Just one day after finishing his final Grade 12 exams, Rayan returned to competition with a statement performance, winning both the JAGA International Amateur Open at the Ain Equestrian Shooting and Golf Club. Fifty Degrees of Focus The course played long, the wind picked up, and the temperature pushed close to 50°C. Where others faltered, Rayan thrived. 'On the first day, when the wind was calm, I was tied for second. But as the wind picked up over the next two rounds,' he said. 'I stepped on the gas and pulled ahead, capitalizing on my ability to control the ball in challenging conditions.' 'Playing in 45-degree heat with 30 km/h winds was a real test, but the tough conditions actually sharpened my focus. I was able to shape shots to work with the wind, which gave me an edge over my competitors. 'A big shoutout to Shane and the team at Al Ain Golf Club for maintaining such incredible course conditions. It's always been a course that suits my eye, and I'm grateful to have clinched another win there.' Rayan's consistent execution and tournament composure earned him UAE Clutch Pro Tour invitations, the next step in preparing for life on the professional tour. Transformative Period Reflecting on his recent progress, he said, 'The past four months have been a transformative period for me. 'After struggling with my swing following my second-place finish at the Faldo Series with a score of 6-under, and my win at the Yas Links Men's Open at 5-under, I committed to making significant changes to my game—particularly from tee to green and on approach shots.' With consistent gym work and technical refinement, Rayan's ball striking has reached a new level of precision and power. 'Much of the progress has come from my dedication in the gym," he says. "I'm now hitting the ball 285 yards off the tee, and the accuracy and consistency I've developed have been a major factor in my recent upward performances.' With major events ahead Rayan is gearing up for the next chapter of his journey. Whether it's lifting a trophy, leading a business, or representing his country on the Olympic stage, his eyes remain fixed on the bigger picture. The journey is just beginning—but he is locked in and is confronting every challenge with characteristic purpose and tenacity.
Khaleej Times
5 days ago
- Sport
- Khaleej Times
Ananyaa and Rayan dominate Al Ain's JAGA Open, earn UAE Clutch Tour Invitations
As temperatures soared past 50°C, the Al Ain Equestrian Shooting and Golf Club became the proving ground for the region's most promising young golfers during the JAGA International Amateur Open. Hosted by the Junior Asian Golf Academy (JAGA) in partnership with the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF), the event drew over 30 amateur players battling not just the heat, but fierce competition — all vying for coveted invitations to this year's UAE Clutch Tour. Emerging victorious were two standout talents: Ananyaa Sood and Rayan Ahmed, who dominated their respective divisions with impressive performances that left the crowd buzzing. A Glimpse into the Future of UAE Golf This tournament was more than just a competition; it was a preview of what was to come. Slated to open this September, JAGA's new academy campus in Al Ain will serve as the home base for the UAE National Golf Team and a unique boarding school designed to nurture the next generation of golf champions. Through the innovative JAGA-WAY training system — inspired by martial arts belt rankings — student-athletes progress methodically, balancing academics with elite golf training, all to become college-ready Black Belts. Champions Across the Board The Open featured fierce matchups across age groups from 13 to 23, with girls and boys alike showcasing incredible skill: Girls U13 Girls: Anushka Gupta took top honours. U15 Girls: Ananyaa Sood triumphed, with Sofia Zbiri and Ayesha Gupta close behind. U18 Girls: Anuradha Chaudhuri claimed the crown. U23 Ladies: Jamie Camero led the pack, with Hannah Alan and Lara ElChaib also making waves. Boys U13 Boys: Sevn Laurijsen rose to the top, followed by Sebastian Cook and Luke Brown. U15 Boys: Alexander Rushika emerged victorious. U18 Boys: Rayan Ahmed wowed with a stunning 66 in the second round, ultimately clinching the title. U23 Men: Jonathan Selvaraj took the win, with Arav Shaw as runner-up. The Battle for Overall Supremacy When all divisions combined for overall titles, it was Rayan Ahmed who stole the spotlight among the boys, shooting an impressive 7 under par for a final score of 203. In the girls' competition, Ananyaa Sood soared 5 under par with consistent rounds of 67, 67, and 71 — an 8-shot lead over her nearest challenger. Both champions have earned exclusive invites to the upcoming UAE Clutch Tour, setting the stage for what promises to be an electrifying season ahead. Looking Ahead Reflecting on the event, JAGA Cofounder John Laroche shared, 'As we get one step closer to opening our campus in the UAE, this past weekend was a true celebration of the young talent that this region has to offer. "Our goal is to develop the sport while providing an elite student-athlete pathway for all inspiring golfers. Thank you to our partners and to the Emirates Golf Federation for their continued support. We look forward to following these young boys and girls on their journey'.
Associated Press
30-04-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Phoenix Manufacturing Joins Global Movement Towards Sustainable & Ethical Production with RJC Certification
Thailand-based Phoenix Manufacturing earns RJC certification, launches new wholesale silver jewellery lines, and highlights as a rising ethical sourcing hub. SAMUT PRAKAN, THAILAND, April 30, 2025 / / -- Phoenix Manufacturing Co., Ltd. from Thailand, a globally established silver jewellery manufacturer and wholesaler, has officially earned certification from the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), marking a significant milestone in its ongoing commitment to ethical, sustainable, and responsible production practices. Phoenix Manufacturing earns RJC certification for ethical jewellery production in Thailand. The certification recognises Phoenix Manufacturing's adherence to rigorous international standards concerning human rights, labour practices, environmental impact, and responsible sourcing. As part of a growing network of companies aligning with globally respected frameworks, Phoenix joins an elite group of certified manufacturers that meet the RJC Code of Practices—a benchmark for integrity in the jewellery and watch supply chain. 'We take pride in every piece we create, combining responsible sourcing, compliance, and craftsmanship to meet the highest standards of ethics, quality, and trust,' said Rayan Ahmed, Head of Public Relations. As businesses increasingly look beyond China for production partners, Thailand has emerged as a prominent alternative, offering a combination of deep artisanal expertise and regulatory alignment with international standards to reassure global trade. Phoenix Manufacturing exemplifies this shift, providing sterling silver jewellery solutions that prioritise sustainability and quality. To meet immediate global demand, Phoenix Manufacturing is also preparing to launch two new white-label product lines for retailers and brands preparing for the upcoming season: A mixed-metal body jewellery collection featuring contemporary styles for the fashion-forward market. A sterling silver, flower-themed jewellery line inspired by nature's elegance and crafted with intricate detail. Both collections will be available for global shipping beginning 21 May 2025, through the company's factory-direct wholesale outlet. Phoenix Manufacturing operates under multiple internationally recognised compliance frameworks, including SEDEX, AMFORI BSCI, and now RJC. The company works exclusively with vetted suppliers for traceable sourcing and employs rigorous quality control processes to ensure product consistency and client confidence. For more information about the company's ethical manufacturing practices and wholesale jewellery solutions, visit their website. About Phoenix Manufacturing Co., Ltd. Phoenix Manufacturing Co., Ltd. is a Thailand-based jewellery manufacturer and wholesaler specialising in sterling silver and custom-designed pieces. With decades of experience serving international clients, Phoenix offers end-to-end production solutions, white-label services, and ethical sourcing backed by certifications such as RJC, SEDEX, and AMFORI BSCI. Known for its skilled craftsmanship, reliable global shipping, and commitment to responsible business practices, Phoenix is a preferred partner for retailers and brands across the U.S., Australia, and beyond. Sales Team Phoenix Manufacturing Co., Ltd. 21160308 ext. [email protected] Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
Khaleej Times
26-03-2025
- Sport
- Khaleej Times
Rayan Ahmed leads the charge after sensational 66 at Faldo Series in Al Ain
Rayan Ahmed (EGF) put on a commanding display in Round 2 of the Faldo Series, carding a brilliant four-under-par 66 to surge into the lead with a two-shot advantage heading into the decisive final round at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club. Backing up his opening-round 68, Ahmed now sits at six under par (134) after 36 holes, two shots clear of Raghav Gulati (Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club) in this fiercely contested 54-hole tournament. Sanctioned by the Emirates Golf Federation and recognized as a WAGR qualifier, the Faldo Series continues to showcase the region's rising golf talents. The tournament, known for its inclusive format featuring both boys and girls, is supported by The R&A and reflects the growing global reach of junior golf. As the leaderboard tightens, Lukas Astrom (Jumeirah Golf Estates) lurks just one shot further back at 137, while the Girl's Division is equally poised for a thrilling finale. Anca Mateiu (EGF), representing Emirates Golf Club, holds a narrow advantage at two under par, with Ananyaa Sood (The Els Club, Dubai) trailing by a single stroke after both players carded impressive second-round 69s. Reflecting on his round, Ahmed expressed both confidence and excitement: 'I played alongside Raghav and Lukas today, and we had a great time—at least I did! Taking a two-shot lead into the final round is a fantastic position to be in, and we'll be playing together again tomorrow.' His driving, he admitted, was near perfection: 'It felt like my ball was on a string—I never say things like that, but today was special. I've managed to stay out of the waste areas, keeping myself in scoring positions. That's where rounds can be won or lost. I had two bogeys and six birdies today, and while I missed a few putts, I can't complain.' Looking ahead to the final round, Ahmed's strategy remains aggressive: 'My mindset won't change—stay aggressive, take it one shot at a time, and stay in the moment. Walking the course without caddies really helps keep us focused.' The tournament's decisive round takes place tomorrow (Thursday), concluding with the Prize Presentation across all divisions: Round Two Scores (Par 70): R. Ahmed (EGF) – 68, 66 (134) R. Gulati (Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club) – 70, 66 (136) L. Astrom (Jumeirah Golf Estates) – 68, 69 (137) A. Mateiu (EGF) – 69, 69 (138) A. Sood (The Els Club, Dubai) – 70, 69 (139)
Khaleej Times
25-03-2025
- Sport
- Khaleej Times
Ahmed blames his putter, praises driver in windy battle for Faldo Series lead
Rayan Ahmed (Emirates Golf Federation) and Lukas Astrom (Jumeirah Golf Estates) set the early pace at the Faldo Series event at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club, both carding impressive two-under-par 68s in challenging conditions. The 54-hole tournament, sanctioned by the Emirates Golf Federation and a World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) qualifier supported by The R&A, saw gusty winds test the field on the par-70 layout. Ahmed, a UAE National Squad member who trains primarily at the Montgomerie Golf Club, battled through the conditions with two birdies and two bogeys to finish level on top of the leaderboard. 'I'm really proud of how I played today,' said Ahmed. 'The wind was relentless, steady at around 30 kph with gusts reaching 40 kph, so it was a real test.' Ahmed credited his driving and approach play—especially on the back nine—for keeping his round together but admitted that putting was a struggle. 'My putting let me down today—I had a lot of lip-outs—but in these winds, sinking putts is never easy,' he said. Fresh off making swing adjustments with his Emirates Golf Federation coach, Faycal Serghini, Ahmed is seeing early results. 'I recently changed my grip, and it feels like it's working,' he said. 'Now, I just need to keep it going for the next two rounds.' Ahmed also holds a special connection to Al Ain's course, where he has a history of strong performances. 'This is one of my favorite courses in the UAE, and it always seems to bring out my best golf. I shot a 63 here in a JAGA tournament before—maybe I should play here more often,' he added. Astrom, who shares the lead, put together a flawless round, going bogey-free with two birdies to match Ahmed's 68. Only five players managed to break par on a demanding day, with leading female competitor Anca Mateiu (EGF) continuing her stellar form, signing for a 69 after two steady nines of 34. Round two tees off tomorrow (Wednesday), with the final round set for Thursday. Round One Scores: R. Ahmed (EGF) – 68 L. Astrom (Jumeirah Golf Estates) – 68 E. Galeppini (Dubai Creek) – 69 A. Mateiu (EGF) – 69 A. Sivova (Russia) – 69
