GOLF – VICTORIOUS, led by His Majesty King Hamad’s representative for humanitarian work and youth affairs and Supreme Council for Youth and Sport chairman Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, were crowned premier flight champions yesterday as the 27th annual AMH Island Classic Charity Golf Tournament wrapped up at His Majesty’s private golf course in Saffriya.
The three-day competition was held under the royal patronage of the King and it was organised by American Mission Hospital (AMH).
Shaikh Nasser secured first place in their division alongside Victorious teammates George Scott, Billy Jackson, and Ed Crisford. They took to the fairways on the second day of the event.
Shaikh Nasser affirmed that the AMH Island Classic Charity Golf Tournament continued its success in its 27th edition, thanks to the outstanding organisation and competitive atmosphere.
Shaikh Nasser expressed his appreciation for the efforts made by AMH and all the organising committees in planning and preparation, as well as their ongoing commitment to ensuring the event’s success.
Nasser Bin Hamad Golf Academy finished second in the premier flight, while the Arabian Fairways came third.
The premier flight is one of two categories for the participating teams in the prestigious event, played in Florida format. The premier flight featured teams with a handicap of 6.1 or over, while the championship flight had teams with a handicap of six or under.
Shaikh Nasser was part of the academy’s team, which included promising young talents Nasser Hamad Al Muraisi, Nayla Abdulaziz and Muteb Al Thawadi.
Their impressive finish and participation underscore Shaikh Nasser’s commitment to supporting sporting talent and providing them with the opportunity to gain experience and hone their skills.
Shaikh Nasser affirmed that competing alongside the junior players embodies the belief that making champions begins with discovering talent and giving them the confidence and opportunities to prove their abilities.
Shaikh Nasser noted that the Nasser Bin Hamad Golf Academy provides an environment for honing skills and preparing a generation that possesses ambition, determination, and a competitive spirit.
He highlighted the importance of continuing to promote golf and attract more emerging Bahraini players by providing training programmes and competitive opportunities that develop their abilities and develop their skills, which strengthens the sport’s presence in the kingdom and increases opportunities for future generations.
He praised the humanitarian and charitable mission of the AMH Island Classic Charity Golf Tournament and the way it serves as a model that combines sport, humanitarian work, and community service.
Shaikh Nasser also came away as a winner of one of the three side contests, hitting the most accurate drive on hole eight. Hesham Al Noaimi of Blackhawks won for going closest to the pin on hole two, while Vidhu Mittal of CrediMax won the longest putt side contest on hole four.
Meanwhile, Saffriya emerged as victors in the championship flight, followed by the Interior Ministry and RGC Two.
At the close of the tournament, AMH corporate CEO Dr George Cheriyan commented: “We extend our heartfelt thanks to our esteemed patron, His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, whose generous support and encouragement make this tournament possible each year.
“We are also grateful to the Royal Court for their invaluable guidance and steadfast support throughout the planning and execution of this event.
“Beyond being a sporting event, the AMH Island Classic embodies the spirit of giving and community that lies at the very heart of AMH. The funds raised through this tournament go towards supporting our community outreach and charity initiatives, enabling us to continue our mission of providing accessible, quality healthcare to those in need.
“Our sincere appreciation also goes to our sponsors, whose ongoing commitment has been instrumental in sustaining this tournament for over two decades. Their generosity ensures that this event remains not only a celebration of sport but also a force for good in the community.”
AMH Group CEO Julia Tovey added: “This tournament continues to stand as one of the most anticipated charity sporting events in the kingdom – a true testament to teamwork, compassion, and community spirit.”
Prizes for both flights will be presented to the overall winning teams at the Island Classic Gala Dinner next Sunday at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel and Spa.