Muscat: Young golfers from Oman achieved remarkable success as 11-year-old Yusuf Al Rumhi won an individual gold medal, making history, while he and Taimur Al Busaidi together earned top honors at the esteemed 2024 Under-16, Under-13, Ladies, and U-16 Ladies GCC Golf Championships, which wrapped up at the Ghala Golf Club on Monday.
These emerging talents led Oman to an impressive total of six medals at the GCC championships. This outstanding accomplishment represents a significant advancement for the sport in the Sultanate, underscoring the growth of golf under the proactive guidance of the Oman Golf Association (OGA).
Oman's emerging talents, Yusuf and Taimur, shone brightly in the U13 category, securing gold medals while competing against formidable teams from the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain.
Yusuf, hailing from a distinguished golfing lineage, has upheld the Al Rumhi legacy. As the son of Azaan Al Rumhi, Oman’s top golfer, and the grandson of avid golfer Mohammed Al Rumhi, Yusuf has demonstrated his exceptional skills from an early age.
His outstanding performance in the U-13 category earned him the individual gold medal with a total score of 169. Yusuf’s calm demeanor and accuracy not only brought him this prestigious accolade but also significantly contributed to Oman’s triumph in securing the team gold.
He partnered with Taimur, who finished in second place with a score of 174, and together they propelled Oman to victory with a combined team score of 343, well ahead of Bahrain (411) and Saudi Arabia (424).
In addition to the U-13 achievements, Oman’s U-16 boys showcased remarkable talent and resolve, with Adam Al Barwani claiming individual silver and Pransh Jagwani taking home the bronze. The gold medal was awarded to Qatar’s Daniil Sokolov.
The collaborative efforts of Adam, Pransh, and Faris Al Busaidi resulted in Oman earning a hard-fought team silver with a total score of 490, narrowly trailing Qatar (480).
In a historic first, Oman’s U-16 girls, Miraeri Sampat and Yasmin Al Kathiri, also exhibited exceptional talent, securing the bronze in the team category, highlighting the nation’s growing stature in youth golf. The UAE won the gold, followed by Saudi Arabia.
The Ladies team, comprising Omaima Al Hajri, Ikhlas Al Waili, and Sheikha Al Ghaiti, finished in fourth place, with the UAE claiming the title, followed by Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.
In a recent interview with Times of Oman, Yusuf expressed his enthusiasm: “I take great pride in bringing home a gold medal for my country, and achieving individual success was the cherry on top.
“My preparations for this event were thorough, as I participated in the US Kids Championship in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, prior to this competition. Hearing the national anthem play at a GCC tournament was a moment of immense pride for me.”
At just 11 years old, Yusuf remarked: “I have been aware of this sport since I was three, watching my father, who is my first role model, win numerous trophies. His achievements inspired me to pursue golf, and I truly enjoy it.”
Taimur also shared his excitement: “It is a tremendous honor to represent Oman as a member of the Under-13 golf team. Winning gold alongside Yusuf and earning an individual silver medal is a remarkable accomplishment.
“I am deeply thankful to the Oman Golf Association (OGA) and the Ministry of Sports for their steadfast support throughout this journey. Looking forward, I am dedicated to working hard in golf, aiming for another gold medal at next year’s GCC Golf Championships and the Pan Arab Golf Championships.”
Faiz Mohammed Riaz expresses immense pride in team achievements
Faiz Mohammed Riaz, Vice-Chairman of the Oman Golf Association (OGA), shared his enthusiasm while reflecting on the team's significant accomplishments.
“It fills me with great pride to offer my warmest congratulations to Team Oman for their exceptional performance at the GCC Golf Championships.
“Securing the gold medal in the Under-13 category and the silver medal in the Under-16 category are outstanding milestones that highlight the talent, commitment, and sportsmanship of our young athletes.
“These successes indicate a promising future for golf in Oman, as we witness the rise of a new generation of champions,” he stated.
“I would also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all participants, coaches, and officials from the GCC nations who contributed to making this championship a true celebration of golf and camaraderie. Your dedication and enthusiasm are vital to the success of this event.”
Faiz continued, “A special acknowledgment goes to the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Youth, the Oman Olympic Committee, the Arab Golf Federation, and the staff at Ghala Golf Club for their steadfast support and careful organization.
“Their contributions ensured a world-class experience for everyone involved. As we conclude this chapter of the 2024 Under-16, Under-13, Ladies, and U-16 Ladies GCC Golf Championships, we remain dedicated to promoting excellence in the sport and eagerly anticipate welcoming you back for future events.”
His Highness Sayyid Hamoud bin Kais Al Said attended the closing ceremony, recognizing the commitment and hard work of all participants alongside officials from the Arab Golf Federation and OGA.
The UAE excelled in the women's categories, highlighted by exceptional performances from Anca Mateiu, who won the ladies U-16 title, and Lara Al Chaib, the overall ladies champion. Meanwhile, Qatar triumphed in the U16 boys’ team event, taking home the gold medal.
Ahmed Al Jhdhamy, General Secretary of the OGA, underscored the significance of grassroots initiatives. “Our achievements today stem from years of foundational efforts. The outcomes of this championship demonstrate that Oman is prepared to compete at the highest levels within the Gulf region.”
With the OGA's ongoing commitment to youth development, these achievements herald a promising future for Omani golf. As Oman’s emerging talent looks ahead to new challenges, they are set to make a lasting impact on the global golfing arena.
