Female golfing stars aim to shine at Dubai Moonlight Classic, Noja ready for pro debut

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

Some of the best female golfers in the world will be in the spotlight as the 15th edition of the Dubai Moonlight Classic, presented by EGA, gets under way on Wednesday in a three-day celebration of world-class sport, food and entertainment under the floodlights at Emirates Golf Course.

Thai sisters Ariya and Moriya Jutanugarn, Solheim Cup-winning captain Catriona Matthew and English golfing legend Dame Laura Davies are just some of the star names battling it out from Oct.27-29, on the challenging Faldo Course, for the coveted Dallah trophy and a bumper prize fund of 260,000 Euros.

Current Ladies European Tour race leader Atthaya Thitikul is also expected to challenge along with Indian Olympic stars Aditi Ashok and Diksha Dagar.

One of the most highly anticipated and inclusive events on Dubai’s social and sporting schedule, the Dubai Moonlight Classic is the only tournament on the international tours to take place under floodlights. World No.23 Ariya is relishing the challenge, adding: “I am really excited to play in Dubai, and to play competitive night golf. This is my first time playing a day-night tournament so it will be great to experience a different format.”

Laura Davies is no stranger to the tournament having played 13 times in its 15-year history.

The 45-time LET winner said: “The Dubai event has always been at the forefront of the LET, encouraging other countries in the region to get on board with women’s sports, which is very important for us. I love the event and the changes around the club have been fun and amazing to watch over the years. It’s a magical place.”

Six-time LET winner Matthew added: “It is for sure one tournament that you put on your schedule at the start of every year. Dubai has always been very proactive in encouraging golf for women and has been a great supporter of the Ladies European Tour, attracting women golfers from all over the world.”

The tournament also marks the professional debut of Dubai-based Chiara Noja, the 15-year-old rising star who turned pro in time for this event. Noja said: “I’m looking forward to it, the chance to mix with players of such calibre, watch them on the driving range, seeing them compete and hole those clutch putts, is something I can definitely learn from and aspire to.”