After achieving legendary golfing world status, Sweden’s Annika Sörenstam is turning her attention to inspiring the UAE’s female golfers, as she commits her expertise to the Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Open (FBMLO) – Abu Dhabi’s first women’s professional golf event – running at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, Saadiyat Island from November 2-5.
Throughout the ground-breaking tournament, Europe’s current Solheim Cup team captain will conduct a golf clinic for members of the Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy (FBMA), which empowers females in the UAE through promoting sports, physical activity and healthy lifestyles, as well as invited Emirati females, both young and old.
The 10-time Major Championship winner will also make a ‘celebrity’ appearance in the Tournament Village on Wednesday November 2, where fans will be able to witness her legendary golf skills.
Other highlights of Annika’s trip will include a visit to a local girls’ school, and her participation in a unique Inspiring Ladies evening on Thursday, November 3, where she will host invited guests of key event sponsors.
Annika is excited about her Abu Dhabi trip.
She said: “I’ve been fortunate to have had a very successful career in golf and I take great pride in trying to grow the game globally, so it’s a pleasure to be able bring my experiences, skills and passion for the game to local golfers at the FBMLO; being part of an event like this, that’s a first of its kind in Abu Dhabi, is truly special to me.
“I hope to be able to inspire the next generation of female golfers in this region. Hopefully, my assistance, combined with the amazing access, facilities and programmes on offer, will mean the sport will continue to thrive in Abu Dhabi.”
The FBMLO is the first Ladies European Tour (LET) event in Abu Dhabi and has been organised by the FBMA in cooperation with Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC) in a bid to inspire more women to take up the sport in the emirate.
Commenting on Annika’s involvement, Aref Al Awani, General Secretary at ADSC said: “It is such an honour to welcome Annika, who reached the absolute pinnacle of her sport and has since inspired thousands to take up the game.
“Annika’s presence solidifies our commitment to grow golf amongst female Emiratis from a grassroots level. This will develop future generations’ love and interest in the game to create the next generation of UAE superstars.”
The Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Open is free to attend and more information is available from www.fbmladiesopen.com