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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
10-02-2025
- Sport
- Khaleej Times
Two Heartbeats, One Game: Annabel Ayres balancing sport and motherhood in the UGC
Sport has a way of intertwining with life in the most unexpected ways. For Annabel Ayres, representing the Tristar Gladiators for the second successive year in the Ultimate Golf Challenge, this season carries a deeper meaning—because this time, she's playing for two. 'There's two of us out there,' Annabel says with a smile, gently resting a hand on her growing baby bump. Pregnancy may have changed some things, but it hasn't held her back on the course. A seasoned golfer with 27 years of experience playing around the world, Annabel has called Dubai home for the last nine years. She plays off an 8 handicap and thrives in the team format of the UGC. 'I look forward to it every year,' she says. 'This year's format is different from last year, but I still love the team element.' Her playing partner, Genie Owiti, is both a source of laughter and support. 'She can still hit a long ball even though she's expecting!' Genie jokes. The duo takes a simple approach to every round: focus on one shot at a time, keep a positive attitude, and enjoy the game—no matter what. Annabel admits she was a little nervous about competing while pregnant, but once she stepped onto the course at the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club for Round 1 of the tournament, any lingering doubts faded. 'People might wonder how a pregnant woman can compete, but there's no reason why I shouldn't keep going,' she says. And she's right. Elite athletes have long proven that pregnancy doesn't mean pausing their sporting careers. In 2015, a panel of experts convened by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) studied the effects of pregnancy on high-performance athletes. Their research, published in 2016, affirmed that women can safely train and compete, provided they listen to their bodies and make necessary adjustments. Annabel is living proof that sport and motherhood can thrive together, each strengthening the other. In Round 2 of the UGC at the Emirates Golf Club's Faldo Course Annabel and Genie combined for an impressive 44 points, a testament to their commitment, teamwork and steady mindset. 'We practised together as much as we could before the event, and on the day, we took it hole by hole, shot by shot,' Annabel explains. The Ultimate Golf Challenge is fiercely competitive yet welcoming, and Annabel values the camaraderie it fosters. 'It's a really well-organized tournament, and the support is fantastic. It's friendly, but don't be mistaken—it's competitive.' For Annabel, golf is more than a sport. It keeps her fit, keeps her focused, and above all, keeps her feeling like herself. 'I want to do my best for the team,' she says. 'Pregnancy doesn't change that.' Our team wouldn't be where it is without the unwavering support of our owners, Mukesh Kochhar and Eugene Mayne, along with our mentor, Dev Kurup. Their encouragement and belief in us have made all the difference. Her story is one of resilience, joy, and the seamless connection between life and sport. Annabel is playing for two now, proving that motherhood and athleticism are by no means separate paths—they're just different parts of the same remarkable journey of life.
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
31-01-2025
- Sport
- Khaleej Times
Noble Legacy Masters lead the charge after competitive Round 1 battle of UGC Season 2
A bright but blustery afternoon set the stage for Round 1 of the Ultimate Golf Challenge Season 2 at the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club on Thursday, where changing winds and challenging greens kept players on their toes. Despite the challenges, it was the Noble Legacy Masters earned the day's accolades by leading both the team and individual standings in a fiercely competitive opening round. The Masters posted a solid score of 292 points to take an early lead in the team event while defending champions Tristar Gladiators kept them in their sights with 277 points. The Sultans of Swing, playing in memory of their late teammate Rohan Malhotra, sat just one point behind in third on 276. Individually, the Noble Legacy Masters maintained dominance, with Shenal Patel and Sidney Desouza topping the leaderboard with 81 points. The duo finished five clear of Shershaah Eagles' Najla Bartette and Prateek Pant, who put in an impressive performance to secure second place with 76 points. Avani Shah and Alireza Haji, also from the Eagles, rounded out the top three with 75. Achal Ghai, ower of the Noble Legacy Masters was thrilled with his squad's performance but emphasized the collective effort behind their success and that there were more challenges to confront in the upcoming two rounds. 'It's all about teamwork and preparation,' Ghai said. 'We've worked hard to build this squad, and even brought in a coach who conducted two clinics before the tournament to ensure we were ready.' While Patel and Desouza grabbed the headlines, Ghai stressed that every player contributed to the team's strong start. 'I'm thrilled to see Shenal and Sidney leading the pack, but this is a team effort," He said. "Every player stepped up and played with passion - many even outperformed themselves. I couldn't be happier with how we've started.' However, Ghai knows the battle is far from over. 'The pressure is on now,' he said. 'We need to push even harder when the tournament moves to Emirates Golf Club next week. This is just the beginning, and we're ready for the challenge.' Strength of the Field If Round 1 proved anything, it's that this season's Ultimate Golf Challenge is set to be an intense contest. Only eight points separated the top 10 pairs, demonstrating just how close the competition was. Among those in the mix were Najla Bartette and Prateek Pant of Shershaah Eagles, with 76 points in second place who were followed closely by Avani Shah and Alireza Haji (Shershaah Eagles), Nicsha Rodriguez and Yana Jamieson (The Brain & Performance Centre) and Saket Kanoi and Ravi Khanna (Noble Legacy Masters) all with matching 75 points. Shershaah Eagles is owned by Harry Gandhi who commented: 'It was a fantastic start, and we're looking forward to the next two days as we push for the top. I thought we were well-organized and are thrilled to be part of the UGC for a second season. It was competitive, but most importantly, a lot of fun.' For many players, the Creek's grainy greens and unpredictable winds made for a challenging test, but it was all part of the fun. 'I'm kinda glad I had a pretty average round, but I managed to put some points on the board,' said Shenal Patel, of the Noble Legacy Masters. 'I haven't played in a little while, and this is my first time in this kind of competition. I just tried to keep the nerves at bay, find my rhythm, and focus.' A Homecoming for Najla Bartette For Najla Bartette, who finished second in the pairs competition with Prateek Pant, playing at Dubai Creek felt like a return to familiar surroundings. 'Honestly, I love the Creek because I was a member a long time ago,' she said. 'For me, it was a homecoming. I wasn't expecting anything, just trying to have fun. We played well without knowing where we stood, so it was a nice surprise to come back to the clubhouse and find out we were in second.' The leaderboard may be set for now, but with two rounds still to go on February 7 & 13 the Ultimate Golf Challenge is just getting started. Next stop: Emirates Golf Club, where the competition is sure to heat up even further. Round 1 Standings Teams 1. Noble Legacy Masters 292 2. Tristar Gladiators 277 3. Sultans of Swing 276 4. Shershah Eagles 271 5. Meteora Magicians 271 6. The A team 269 7. Three Comma Masters 259 8. Desert Knights 258 9. Alpha Ninjas 255 10. The Brain & Performance Centre 229 Best Pairs Shenal Patel + Sidney Desouza (Noble Legacy Masters) 81 points; 2. Najla Bartette + Prateek Pant (Shershaah Eagles) 76; 3. Avani Shah + Alireza Haji (Shershaah Eagles) 75; 4. Nicsha Rodriguez + Yana Jamieson (The Brain & Performance Centre) 75; 5. Saket Kanoi + Ravi Khanna (Noble Legacy Masters) 75; 6. Suryaveer Singh + Pranav Rai (Sultans of Swing) 74; 7. Obediah Ayton + Candice Wang (Tristar Gladiators) 74; 8. Monica Palao + Arvind Kittur (Three Comma Masters) 73; 9. Vikas Sachar + Aamir Inam (Meteora Magicians) 73; 10. Russel Yeomans + Xin He (Meteora Magicians) 73.
