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Kern Wales produced a dazzling round to win the 56th edition of the prestigious Kanoo Cup at Awali Golf Club, Bahrain, with a Net score of 63, on a course made entirely of sand!
The Kanoo Cup, which began in 1966, remains one of Awali Golf Club’s most significant events. Founded in 1937, Awali is the oldest desert golf course in the Gulf.
Awali Golf Club, Bahrain
Early photo of Awali Golf Club, Bahrain
Sitting at the heart of Bapco’s oil refining operations, the first recorded tournaments had taken place in the early 1930s. Originally designed as a nine-hole course, the growing workforce in the surrounding area at the time led to the development of a full 18-hole course by 1937. That year marked the official opening, and it remains the date the club regards as its establishment.
To this day it hosts events such as the Bahrain Open Championship, the Middle East’s first Open competition, which began in 1964 for men and 1988 for women.
Awali Golf Course is made entirely of sand.
Awali Golf Club’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its innovative course management. Instead of traditional greens, the club has created “browns” by compacting treated sand, providing players with an excellent putting surface. The course’s fairways are also equipped with artificial grass mats, ensuring a consistent and environmentally friendly golfing experience.
Awali Golf Club, Bahrain
Back to the Kanoo Cup! Kern’s round began modestly, with a front nine score of 42 shots. But he steadied the ship on the back nine, birdieing the 10th hole, dropping shots on the 11th and 12th, but then finishing strong with six consecutive pars. His Gross score of 78 and Net 63 was enough to take home the coveted Kanoo Cup trophy.
In the Gross division, Nasser Yaqoob Saleh was the standout performer, with five birdies and just one bogey. His Gross score of 66 gave him a seven-shot victory from his nearest competitor.
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More of the day’s winners included Rashed Ahmed Al Kaabi with a Net score of 69 in Division One, Adel Ali Al Fayyadh’s Net 65 in Division Two, and Abdullah Al Hasan, also with a Net 65, winning Division Three.
The prize-giving ceremony was held in the clubhouse, where Yusuf Ali Kanoo, alongside his uncle Ahmed Abdullah Kanoo, Stephen Wagstaff, Tournament Director Rashed Al Qutami, and Club Captain Steve Newall, presented the prizes.
Lynn St. Lawrence – Awali Golf Club
The event also marked a bittersweet farewell to Lynn St. Lawrence, who is relocating to Australia. As a longtime member of Awali Golf Club, Lynn has served in various roles on the club’s committees, contributing immensely to its development. Her dedication and passion for the club will be sorely missed, as everyone at the club and its members wish her all the best in this new chapter.
Images: Awali Golf Club, Bahrain
