DUBAI – The Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) has revived the popular Handicap Scheme Medals in line with its commitment to creating more playing opportunity for amateur golfers in the country.
The Handicap Scheme Medals that have played a key role in promoting the game of golf are meant for golfers who are not members of the clubs, but are enrolled with the EGF. In addition to regular golf days, the players, subject to their playing standards, can attain a handicap according to the USGA Handicapping systems, introduced recently by the apex body.With the number of golfers increasing at a rapid pace, the medal events will provide the enthusiastic golfers an easy access to the courses in the UAE. The first of the five-event medal summer series tees off at the Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa on July 2 while the winter series will be held after September this year."You can play golf and we are there to help you," is the overriding message from the Emirates Golf Federation that has teamed up with different clubs to ensure players enjoy a good round of golf at affordable rates.“It has always been our constant endeavour to bring back these handicap events to our calendar as feel we golf enthusiasts who are not members of any club deserve an opportunity to start playing golf or, if they already play, to get better. “We are really grateful to all clubs for their support in helping us revive the Handicap Scheme events. The purpose of a handicap is to enable players of lesser ability to play against players of better ability. We are offering highly subsidized rates for our events as part of our development programmes,” he said. “Since most of these handicap events will be held on Friday, we look forward to having a good turn-out. There are limited places for each event, but we will try and increase the number depending upon the response from the golfers. I appeal to all golfers to come and join us for these exciting events throughout of the summer,” he added.The revival of the Handicap Scheme Medals is part of a series of steps taken by the EGF to streamline the affairs of the sport since new board was set up under the chairmanship of H.E. Shaikh Fahim Bin Sultan Al Qasimi in 2008. These include the introduction of the new USGA handicap system, revival of the Nationals Monthly Medals, a new series for junior golfers and enhanced participation of the UAE teams on the international circuit. SCHEDULE OF SUMMER HANDICAP EVENTS:July 2 - Jebel Ali Golf Resort & SpaJuly 30 - Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht ClubAugust 14 - Arabian Ranches Golf ClubSeptember 24 - The Els Club at Dubai Sports City.