THE FAIRWAY HIT the LINKS Fore…breathtaking views and challenges that distract, that’s what the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club is all about 64 EQUITY
THE FAIRWAY Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club with its majestic clubhouse, where the design mirrors the sails of the traditional Arab dhow, has been one of the most photographed landmarks in the UAE since it opened in 1993. The course is always impeccable and it’s no wonder either. Many staff members from the heads groundkeeper and other members engaged in the upkeep have been with the Club from day one. Upon entering the clubhouse to the first tee, every player is greeted and treated as though they were on the professional tour. Dubai Creek is shorter than the city’s more modern courses, but very challenging due to the abundance of water hazards. In fact, 10 out of the <strong>18</strong> holes on the course are directly affected by water hazards in some capacity. Accuracy is rewarded over length here, besides the water and the tree-lined fairways, don’t get excited and try to crush your drivers when seeing the yardages, the wind is a major factor and stunts your length, accuracy and thinking. At par 71, Dubai Creek has a varied collection of holes each majestically set against the backdrop of the creek and the developments being built. The views, feel and experience on this course are breathtaking. The pinnacle is when you reach the stunning sixth tee. Built on to a jetty that stands above the waters of the Creek, there is water left here as well, and the smart play is to lay up short of this and hit a longer shot in. Good luck trying to hit your tee shot whilst taking in the sites and experience of teeing off while literally standing in the middle of the creek. As mentioned, the course has been around for some time, where the course record of 63 held jointly by Lee Westwood and Darren Clarke seems like a score only achieved by the golfing gods. Thomas Bjorn’s redesigned the course and all credit to him especially with the finishing two holes, 17 and <strong>18</strong>. Both these holes are played directly along the bank of the creek, towards the clubhouse. Dangerous holes that have the smile, charm and allure of an assassin. Overcoming the challenges of the 17th can still be achieved with some smart play. The <strong>18</strong>th requires thought, execution and confidence involvement on every shot. There is water on the left and a long bunker on the right, beyond which is water again. A good drive will still leave you with a long iron into the tiered and sloping green, which is guarded at the front and right by a body of water. Even the professionals have sweaty hands while executing the final tee shot, but there’s no better way to finish a round here than with two wellstruck shots to the heart of the green. Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club offer more than just golf – they have fantastic restaurants with facilities to host everything from a wedding to a major corporate function. The views, staff and facilities on hand are second to none. Whilst you are out on the course, battling the elements, the family can enjoy the pool, gym, par 3 golf and outside activities that would keep the most energetic families entertained without missing you. To ensure that you have your place secured in Dubai Creek, securing your own personalized locker only costs Dhs550 per annum and that is the just the start of true value for money in this club from the practice range, academy, restaurants and fully stocked stores on site. Every day seems like you are winning without even teeing off. For rates, booking and further information visit dubaigolf.com/dubai-creek-golf-yacht-club 65 EQUITY