35th edition of Dubai Desert Classic shows why it's top golfing event of Middle East, says Corkill
General view of the Emirates Golf Club.
This week, Emirates Golf Club has welcomed the elite golfers from around the world including World No.2 Rory McIlroy for the 35th Hero Dubai Desert Classic. Gulf Today caught up with Simon Corkill, Executive Tournament Director of Dubai Desert Classic, to talk more about the prestigious Rolex Series Event, the stellar field and its new additions for 2024.
Q. It’s a strong playing field for the 35th edition of the HDDC. What does this say about the tournament itself?
We are delighted to have attracted such a strong field of Major champions and Ryder Cup stars for the 35th edition of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic. To have some of golf’s biggest names including World No.2 Rory McIlroy, Open Champion Brian Harman, Tommy Fleetwood, Tyrrell Hatton, European Ryder Cup Captain Luke Donald, Ryan Fox and Padraig Harrington, Francesco Molinari and Adam Scott here in Dubai for the Rolex Series event is a testament to how highly-regarded this tournament is - both locally and internationally – and I believe this is one of the most competitive fields we have had in recent years.
We are extremely proud that the tournament has paved the way for golf’s presence in the Middle East, creating some of the most iconic moments in golf history and we look forward to seeing further history being made here in Dubai this week.
Q. A lot of tournaments are now adopting sustainability practices. What efforts are being made by the organisers for this year’s event?
Sustainability has always been a key focus for us and this year is no different. Following a range of innovative additions to the 2023 event, the Hero Dubai Desert Classic became the first golf event in the Middle East and within the DP World Tour Rolex Series to achieve GEO-Certified Tournament Status for its commitment, breadth and depth of action, and leadership in driving forward sustainable golf events.
GEO-Certification is an industry leading credibility standard that recognises leadership and action in environmental and social responsibility, and it is great to be recognised for our efforts.
There will also be a wide range of sustainability-focused workshops that visitors can do at Tournament Town including planting a tree, while five water dispenser systems provided by Liquid of Life and Al Laith are available around the venue where players, caddies, officials, and spectators can refill their reusable bottles or cups for free every day. It’s estimated this will remove the use of 40,000 single use water bottles from the event.
Furthermore, 400 solar panels have been installed around the venue.
Not only are these practices part of our ‘Go For the Green’ initiative but these efforts are another step forward in contributing to Dubai Government’s vision of building a sustainable future and making a positive difference to our planet.
