It was a considerable revelation when I first worked on this tournament in 2009, not only because I was marshalling in close proximity to some of my golfing heroes but with the exception of the Ryder Cup, it was the first time that I had attended an event of this nature.
I had always received my "golfing fix" via the modern wonder called television and particularly the coverage offered by Sky. In isolation, this company have genuinely brought high quality sports coverage into the 21st century - at a price that is - but the one thing that television can never replicate is atmosphere, regardless of the sport being covered. Even though this is an event that doesn't command the crowds of an Open Championship or an Augusta Masters, the atmosphere remains something to absorb. Observing the spectators gathered around the first tee and the respectful silence that prevails, I often wonder how the professionals can actually get the ball off the tee? The fact that they do and that it generally sails close to 280 yards down the middle of the fairway leaves me open mouthed! Is this really the same game that I play?
Three things stand out in my memory at this tournament, the first being the stunning 6 shot victory by Lee Westwood in 2009. The second was Rory McIllroy in 2012 when he birdied the final five holes to edge out Justin Rose by 2 shots. Finally, 2013 winner, Henrik Stenson and a sublime three wood to 6" on the final hole which helped him record a tap in eagle and gain the title for "European Shot of the Year". What will I remember from 2015 I wonder?
I did mention above the respectful silence around the first tee. Well part of the reason for this is one of the best known marshalls in the United Arab Emirates, a certain Linda Mulvey. I was very fortunate to be taken under Linda's wing in 2009 and she and husband John have become great friends. Since then Linda always insists that there is a bed for me in their home whenever I am in Dubai and I am extremely grateful for their hospitality. Oh and to see her control the crowd around the first tee you quickly understand why she enjoys such a brilliant reputation.
So only two days to go and plenty to write about before hopefully departing London Heathrow on Sunday night!
Photos below include me with Linda and fellow marshalls including two familiar looking Skipton members?
I had always received my "golfing fix" via the modern wonder called television and particularly the coverage offered by Sky. In isolation, this company have genuinely brought high quality sports coverage into the 21st century - at a price that is - but the one thing that television can never replicate is atmosphere, regardless of the sport being covered. Even though this is an event that doesn't command the crowds of an Open Championship or an Augusta Masters, the atmosphere remains something to absorb. Observing the spectators gathered around the first tee and the respectful silence that prevails, I often wonder how the professionals can actually get the ball off the tee? The fact that they do and that it generally sails close to 280 yards down the middle of the fairway leaves me open mouthed! Is this really the same game that I play?
Three things stand out in my memory at this tournament, the first being the stunning 6 shot victory by Lee Westwood in 2009. The second was Rory McIllroy in 2012 when he birdied the final five holes to edge out Justin Rose by 2 shots. Finally, 2013 winner, Henrik Stenson and a sublime three wood to 6" on the final hole which helped him record a tap in eagle and gain the title for "European Shot of the Year". What will I remember from 2015 I wonder?
I did mention above the respectful silence around the first tee. Well part of the reason for this is one of the best known marshalls in the United Arab Emirates, a certain Linda Mulvey. I was very fortunate to be taken under Linda's wing in 2009 and she and husband John have become great friends. Since then Linda always insists that there is a bed for me in their home whenever I am in Dubai and I am extremely grateful for their hospitality. Oh and to see her control the crowd around the first tee you quickly understand why she enjoys such a brilliant reputation.
So only two days to go and plenty to write about before hopefully departing London Heathrow on Sunday night!
Photos below include me with Linda and fellow marshalls including two familiar looking Skipton members?
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