Latest news with #RussellYeomans
Khaleej Times
29-04-2025
- Sport
- Khaleej Times
Road to Jeju Island: UAE golfers chase the dream in thrilling Race to Korea finale
With the season's end looming and pressure mounting, the Race to Korea is entering its most electric chapter yet — a dramatic final sprint where dreams will be made or dashed on the fairways of the UAE. From Dubai's glistening desert courses to Abu Dhabi's coastal greens, this year's edition of the Race to Korea, presented by DUGASTA, has already rewritten the script. Participation numbers have soared to record-breaking heights, with 17 qualifiers across the Emirates bringing together the nation's most passionate amateur golfers, all chasing the same goal: a coveted spot at the World Amateur Golfers Championship (WAGC) World Final in South Korea's breathtaking Jeju Island. Now, with only three qualifiers remaining, the tension is palpable. Three Events, One Last Shot For those yet to punch their ticket to the UAE National Final, the window is closing fast. But the opportunity still exists — if they can keep their nerve. Three events remain: Yas Links Abu Dhabi – Saturday, 3rd May Abu Dhabi City Golf Club – Sunday, 4th May Arabian Ranches Golf Club, Dubai – Saturday, 10th May These final qualifiers promise high-stakes drama, with pressure mounting on every tee box and putt. The top five finishers in each division at these events will join the elite field at the UAE National Final, set for Saturday, 17th May at Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa — the final battleground before the journey shifts to international soil. Jeju Island Beckons For five standout champions, victory in Abu Dhabi will mean more than a trophy — it will mean donning the UAE colours and boarding a flight to one of golf's most awe-inspiring destinations. Jeju Island, a volcanic gem off South Korea's southern coast, will host players from 47 countries at the WAGC World Final this October. It's a chance to compete globally, all expenses paid, and to experience the camaraderie, culture, and competition that make the WAGC unlike anything else in amateur golf. The Spirit of the Game Russell Yeomans of Sport2Business, the driving force behind the Race to Korea, is buzzing with pride. 'This season has been extraordinary. We've seen more players than ever before, and the standard of play has been phenomenal. It's a testament to the strength of UAE's amateur golf community," he said. He also had a message for those still sitting on the sidelines: 'There's still time to join. If you're over 18 and have a handicap of 25 or lower, this is your moment. The prizes are spectacular, but the memories — especially for our five national champions — will last a lifetime.' With the fairways narrowing and the finish line in sight, the Race to Korea is no longer just a tournament. It's a test of nerve, a showcase of emerging talent, and a celebration of what's possible when passion meets opportunity.
Khaleej Times
08-04-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Race to Korea heats up: Only eight qualifying rounds left to secure a spot
The clock is ticking down on the 2025 Race to Korea, presented by Dugasta, with just eight qualifying rounds left to secure a spot in the UAE National Final. Organizers from Sport2Business recently made the exciting announcement, signalling the closing moments of a thrilling season. Since its kickoff in April 2025, the event has featured 17 intense qualifying rounds at some of the UAE's top golf courses. Now, as the competition heats up, players are looking ahead to the final stages, where the top contenders will face off for the ultimate prize. The top performers from each divisional round will move on to the UAE National Final, set for Saturday, May 17, 2025, at the stunning Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa. The winners of the divisions at this prestigious event will earn the incredible honor of representing the UAE at the World Amateur Golfers Championship (WAGC) Final on Jeju Island, South Korea, in late October and early November 2025. This prestigious world final will welcome participants from around 47 countries, adding to the excitement and prestige of the competition. Fantastic First Half Russell Yeomans, Tournament Director for Sport2Business, the promoter of the UAE's Race to Korea and sanctioned by the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF), shared his excitement about the season so far: "We've had a fantastic first half of the season in this year's Race to Korea, and we're now gearing up for the final rounds. The remaining eight fixtures are open for registration on a first-come, first-served basis, so we encourage all eligible golfers to sign up quickly," Yeomans said. "As we approach the business end of the season, we urge all golfers with an Official EGF Handicap to take part in this exciting event. It's more than just a competition—there's a very special prize awaiting the winners of each division." The competition is open to EGF members, both from EGF clubs and EGF Direct members. To enter, players must be 18 years of age or older, with a maximum handicap of 25. For more details and to secure your spot, visit: Remaining Qualifying Fixtures The clock is ticking, and golfers still have a chance to compete in the remaining eight qualifying rounds:
