UAE golf prodigy Rayhan Thomas given Golf Foundation support

Sport360 staff 19:13 06/05/2016
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  • Mohamed Juma Buamaim, vice chairman and CEO of golf in DUBAi, with Rayhan Thomas (l).

    He becomes the third golfer after UAE’s Ahmed Al Musharrekh and Morocco’s Ahmed Marjan to receive the Shaikh Maktoum Golf Foundation support aimed at recognising and promoting young talent in the region, who have achieved creditable results on the MENA Golf Tour, regardless of their nationality.

    Both Al Musharrekh and Marjan have since turned professional, with the latter becoming the first MENA national to win a MENA Golf Tour event, a feat he achieved at the 2014 Ras Al Khaimah Classic in a sign of the times in an ever-changing world.

    “It’s great honour to have the support of the foundation, one that will take my confidence to a whole new level. Getting recognized and noticed for our work is something we all relish,” said Thomas, who was crowned number one golfer in the UAE after topping the Emirates Golf Federation’s Order of Merit in 2015.

    “From my experience on the MENA Golf Tour, I can tell that I can compete with professionals. My game is in better shape than last year. I am striking the ball better. Playing on the tour has allowed me to better my course management skills.

    “This (support) is certainly the best thing that could have happened to me now, when I am ready to plunge into serious golf training for a fulfilling golf career.”

    The 16-year-old prodigy, who was born and brought up in Dubai, has won virtually every amateur title up for grabs on the domestic circuit.

    And Thomas nearly broke through for his maiden victory on the MENA Golf Tour at the 2015 Dubai Creek Open before losing out in a three-man playoff.

    “Our aim is to encourage and nurture young talent who have shown great promise by racking up some really good performances on the MENA Golf Tour,” said Mohamed Juma Buamaim, vice-chairman and CEO of golf in DUBAi.

    “Rayhan’s achievements speak volumes about his drive to be a golfing star. If he has been acknowledged as an extraordinary talent on the (MENA) tour, it is because of hard work and total dedication to the game. He brings special energy to any event he plays.

    “I wish him the very the best and hope he has a great future ahead of him.”

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