1. John Franks on the bag full time

Introduction

Following a successful trip to the Dunhill Championship, South Africa in December where StrokeAverage.com director John Franks caddied for European Tour golfer Andrew Coltart, the two decided to team up once again for the three week leg in the Middle East starting late January. This is John’s diary from the trip.

Week 1 in Abu Dhabi

On Monday 15 January, after a six hour flight I touched down in Dubai and caught a two hour taxi ride into Abu Dhabi. You simply wouldn’t believe the amount of building work that’s going on in the United Arab Emirates. Hundreds of sky scrapers are in the process of being built. As I arrived in Abu Dhabi city it became very clear just how much the locals enjoy beeping their car horns. To say it drives you crazy is an understatement.

The Course and Weather. My first impression on the course was that it’s very long and the big hitters would again have an advantage much like my previous trip to South Africa. The course did play fair though with long rough and sandy greens which stopped the ball from spinning too much. The week consisted of mostly dry sunny weather with light to moderate winds.

Practice. As we were not playing in the Pro-Am on Wednesday (no competitors other than those taking part in the Pro-Am are allowed on the course on Pro-Am day) we practiced for 9 holes both on Monday and Tuesday with Gary Emerson and his caddy Rick. I’ve noticed that although the tour do try to keep practice rounds moving as quick as possible, they are very slow going and players tend to play only 9 holes at a time.

Tournament Report. Although Andrew shot two rounds of 73 missing the cut by three shots, his game looked in good shape. And with the weekend off, we practiced and also managed to sun bathe in the gorgeous Middle East weather. The eventual winner was Paul Casey whom I know well from playing amateur golf with in the past.

1. It was suggested that I travel to see the Emirates Palace where the players stayed for the week (pictured right). You have to visit it to find out what pure luxury is all about. I decided not to ask the room rates when I found out that every room has 50 inch plasma screens.
2. Tyree Glenn Jr, the king of rhythm and blues produced some great entertainment each evening for a few hours which I really enjoyed listening to.

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