04-08-2025
Rejman stays cool under pressure to win JGE's Red Hot Open in summer sizzle
In a summer test of endurance and skill, 72 golfers took to the iconic Earth Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates for a thrilling renewal of the 2025 Red Hot Open.
Played in sweltering conditions, the event featured an innovative Forward Tees format, offering a new challenge on familiar ground. Despite the adjusted layout, the competition remained intense, and it was Jumeirah Golf Estates member Mattias Rejman who rose to the occasion, carding an impressive 44 Stableford Points for a gross 65, seven-under par.
All players took on the challenge from the Forward Tees, which shortened the course but intensified the competition, as men and women vied fiercely in both the Net and Gross Divisions under differing course ratings.
True to the event's name, the battle was as fierce as the weather.
Praise for the Earth Course
Rejman applauded the superb course conditions, saying: 'The condition of the Earth course was great, despite sub-ideal summer conditions, so we must credit our Agronomy Team here at JGE.
'I thoroughly enjoyed taking advantage of playing from the Forward Tees, which posed new challenges on-course, which was very enjoyable, and something a little different for us Members who play here every week.'
Hot on his heels was fellow JGE member Gurpreet Shatra, who dazzled with three net-eagles to finish just one point behind. The podium was completed by Shagir Mohammed, whose rollercoaster round included three net-eagles and two double-bogeys, finishing with 42 Stableford Points.
Schoombie Strikes Again
In the fiercely contested Gross Division, Mark Schoombie once again showcased his golfing prowess and form, securing victory with a scintillating 44 Stableford Points and an eight-under gross 64. His round featured seven birdies and an eagle as he narrowly defeated Jayson Hilton, who carded a bogey-free 67.
Excitement ran high with on-course contests, sponsored by Suited and Booted, as Callum Smithson, Paul Gingell, and Tom Morgans claimed Nearest the Pin honours on holes 4, 6, and 17, respectively.
Sponsored by Suited and Booted, the event rewarded competitors with fantastic prizes, adding extra spice to an already charged atmosphere. Adam Stastny, Golf Services Manager at Jumeirah Golf Estates, praised the resilience of participants despite the blazing Dubai summer: 'Your passion and determination make this event a standout on our calendar, even when the temperatures soar.'
Stories Shared, Spirits High
The day wrapped up with a celebratory buffet dinner in the Ballroom, where players relaxed and shared stories from the day's fiery competition.
The Red Hot Open's unique Forward Tees format was a hit, offering a fresh perspective on the challenging Earth Course. However, it still showed its teeth to naïve competitors, a testament to the difficulty of the venue that hosts the DP World Tour Championship.
