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The Lebanese Golf Federation, in collaboration with the Emirates Golf Federation, successfully hosted the inaugural Cedars Golf Championship at Al Zorah Golf and Yacht Club in Ajman, United Arab Emirates.
Sixty-six amateur golfers competed for World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) points, Arab Golf Series points, and a coveted spot in the upcoming HotelPlanner Tour event – the UAE Challenge at Al Zorah.
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The tournament was played over 54 holes, culminating in an 18-hole Stableford format for the final round.
In a dramatic Men’s Division play-off, UAE National Team player Sam Mullane emerged victorious after six tense holes. He battled against Mikhail Pinto and Dan Bryne, both fellow Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) members. With a sponsor’s invite to next week’s HotelPlanner Tour event at stake, Mullane’s victory was significant.
However, recognising the high level of competition and sportsmanship, the Emirates Golf Federation granted exemptions to both Pinto and Bryne, ensuring their participation in next week’s event alongside Mullane.
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Ladies’ Division Champion, Anca Mateiu delivered a stellar performance, shooting rounds of 65-68-73 for a 10-under-par total of 217.
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Junior Division Champion, Daniil Sokolov secured victory with a one-under-par total, finishing nine shots ahead of the runner-up. The Qatari National Team player’s outstanding performance also earned him a place in next week’s HotelPlanner Tour event, the UAE Challenge.
Group Photo of Winner and Sponsors at the 1st Cedars Golf Championship
During the prize presentation, attended by EGF Chairman His Excellency Shaikh Fahim Bin Sultan Al Qasimi and Vice Chairman General Abdullah Alhashmi, Lebanese Golf Federation President Karim Salaam reflected on the significance of the tournament, “It is important for countries to stand with one another. Although Lebanon is going through difficult times, sport can serve as a powerful vehicle for diplomacy.
(R-L) President of the Lebanese Golf Federation Karim Salaam – EGF Chairman His Excellency Shaikh Fahim Bin Sultan Al Qasimi – Vice Chairman General Abdullah Alhashmi
“Thank you to the Emirates Golf Federation and to our brothers and sisters in the UAE for this opportunity. We look forward to continuing to use this championship for more than just the development of golf.”
The Cedars Championship featured players from Egypt, Lebanon, Palestine, Qatar, and the UAE, alongside EGF members and UAE residents.
This event also marked the second tournament in the Arab Golf Series, an initiative launched by the Arab Golf Federation to promote competitive golf across the region.
With thrilling competition, outstanding performances, and a strong message of unity, the inaugural Cedars Championship was more than just a golf tournament—it was a testament to the power of sport in bringing nations together.
Main Image: Emirates Golf Federation
