MUSCAT: Top Omani golfer Azaan al Rumhy claimed the 2022 Muscat Open Golf Championship at Ras Al Hamra Golf Club on March 11 and 12.

There was a full field of 92 golfers from Oman and the GCC who competed for the longest running amateur golf competition in Oman and the GCC. In his closing remarks, President of the Muscat Open Committee Jas Dhanju thanked HSBC, Hydro, Masirah Oil Ltd, CMS, Ramada Encore, Seven Seas Petroleum LLC and Milly O’Brien’s for their sponsorship.

Azaan shot a new course record of 69 (-2 under par) on day 1 and then repeated this score on day 2, giving him a total score of 138 (-4 under par) and a victory by 10 shots from second placed Nasser Yaqoob (Awali Golf Club). Another local favourite Badr al Amri sealed third place with a score of 150. The leading junior in the gross category was Darsh Pawani with a score of 157.

It was a very proud family moment as Azaan was presented with the trophy by his father, Dr Mohammed bin Hamad al Rumhy, Minister of Energy and Minerals.

This was the sixth time Azaan has won this tournament and he commented afterwards that, “this tournament is the most prestigious golf event in Oman, if I can pick one tournament to win in Oman then it would be the Muscat Open. It was my first two back to back rounds in the 60s. I wish to thank the sponsors, the organising committee and my family for all of their support”.

The nett prize this year went to Tore Solberg (134) who was closely followed by junior Ras Al Hamra golfer Juan Moreno (136) and Salim Al Harthy (138).

Ras Al Hamra Golf Club captain Simon Walker said: “Congratulations to Azaan on winning this coveted championship for a sixth time. The course is in superb condition due to the tireless work from our team. We were delighted to welcome such a high caliber of golfers to the club; golf is thriving in Oman and visitors are always welcome to our club which is the only floodlit course in the country”.

Prize Winner

1st Gross & Muscat Open Champion: Azaan al Rumhy -4 (138)

2nd Gross: Nasser Yacoob +6

3rd Gross: Badr al Amri +8

Junior Best Gross: Darsh Pawani +1

1st Nett: Tore Solberg -8

2nd Nett: Juan Moreno -6

3rd Nett: Salim al Harthy -4

Plate: Dr Mohammed al Rumhy 70

Daily Prizes

Best Gross Day 1: Kieran Tumilty 76

Best Gross Day 2: Fahad al Kitani 76