*** Game On in Awali: Bahrain Open Tees Off with Title on the Line | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

Game On in Awali: Bahrain Open Tees Off with Title on the Line

TDT | Manama

Email : hussianm@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain’s biggest golf event swings into action today as the 60th Bahrain Open officially gets underway at Awali Golf Club. Running alongside it is the 36th Bahrain Ladies Open, promising high drama and potential breakthroughs across the leaderboard.

National Pride Drives Local Favourites

Once a playground for expat golfers, the Bahrain Open has transformed into a proving ground for local talent. Defending champion Ahmed Al Zayed returns with sights firmly set on back-to-back titles — but the road won't be easy. 2023 winner Khalifa Al Merisi and six-time champion Nasser Yaqoob Saleh are both in the mix, eyeing a return to the winner’s circle.

Bahrain’s Young Women Aim to Make History

The spotlight in the women's competition falls on two rising Bahraini hopefuls: Habiba Maher and Fatima Albunni. With reigning champion Sarah Hobday back to defend her crown, the stakes have never been higher. Hobday, whose children have also lifted trophies at Awali, brings both legacy and experience to the weekend showdown.

All Set on the Fairways

After two days of warm-up rounds, the real test begins today with the opening 18 holes. The event follows a 36-hole stroke-play format, with the champions to be crowned by Saturday evening.