Golf in DUBAi has paid glowing tributes to outgoing R&A chief executive Peter Dawson for his exceptional contribution in spearheading the development of the game around the world, especially the MENA region.
Dawson was presented with a replica of the iconic Arabian coffee pot trophy – a symbol of supremacy at the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, dubbed the Major of the Middle East – by Mohamed Juma Buamaim, golf in DUBAi vice-chairman and CEO, on the sidelines of The Open championship at St. Andrews yesterday.
“I would like to congratulate Peter Dawson for an outstanding career. His legacy has helped enormously to stimulate the growth and success of the MENA Golf Tour,” said Buamaim, who is also chairman of the Tour.
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“The R&A is one of the most influential bodies in world sport and their continued support to the MENA Golf Tour means a lot to us as many more countries in the
region have indicated their interest in hosting the tour events.
"Our biggest asset is our players and they want to grow the tour and we need all the support we can get to make the region, which boasts a number of world class courses, a vibrant hub of golf.”
Dawson steps down in September after 16 years, leaving behind a legacy of achievements. He was a driving force behind granting R&A affiliation when the tour was founded in 2011 under the auspices of the Shaikh Maktoum Golf Foundation.