Els, Rose, Dufner and Manassero Try Golf Darts

Ernie Els, Justin Rose, Jason Dufner and Matteo Manassero have taken part in a unique target challenge on the 6th green of the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club on the eve of the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship.

The professionals teamed up with sporting legends; Gavin Hastings, Gareth Edwards, Jonathan Davies and Tim Henman for a made for TV event that saw pairs scored in a darts-inspired fashion, picking up points for closest to the bulls-eye.

After two semi-finals and a playoff, Rose and scratch handicapper Henman came out on top, winning a luxury stay at the host St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort hotel. 

Celebrating transition from day to evening as the sun set over the 6th hole, a ceremonial bottle sabre toasted the winners as they collected their prize. Winner Rose said: “This was a great way to kick of The Championship week and in such an unbelievable location. The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort is one of the most stunning hotels we get to stay in.”

Attending guests were welcomed by St. Regis Butlers, a hallmark of the brand’s uncompromising service and presented refreshments, including Arabic tea and signature drinks before the event was rounded off by the St. Regis Evening Ritual of sabering performed by a St. Regis staff member. 

The event opened a memorable day for the team at resort, with the 2014 Ryder Cup captain announced in the Regal Ballroom, the resort’s events facility, later that evening. “This is an exciting week for all involved at the resort,” commented John Pelling, General Manager of The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort. “To have the world’s greatest players experiencing the St. Regis bespoke service and hospitality through the week is a great privilege.

“Yesterday was a remarkable day for us as we hosted the Championship opener with The Saadiyat Beach Bullseye showcasing the diversity on offer in Abu Dhabi’s golf and leisure attractions as well as the striking characteristics of Saadiyat Beach Golf Club and our beautiful hotel is fast becoming the city’s new leisure address.

“To cap off the day the 2014 Ryder Cup Captain was announced at The Regal Ballroom marking it a truly captivating day for the world’s golf media, players and our guests alike,” Pelling added.

Throughout the rest of the week, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort will continue their display of service and culinary excellence hosting the ProAm gala dinner in the expansive Regal Ballroom on Wednesday 16th January as well as a series of interactive guest experiences. 

The resort’s dedication to the Championship has also been extended to all guests staying at the resort providing them complimentary tickets, and a chance to rub shoulders with the best players in the world while also offering special food and beverage initiatives across its various venues.