In the Abu Dhabi Challenge at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting, and Golf Club, four players emerged as frontrunners, each posting impressive seven-under-par rounds of 63. Bradley Bawden, John Parry, Nicolai Kristensen, and Sebastian Friedrichsen share the limelight with a one-shot lead as they head into day two of the competition.
Bawden, hailing from England, showcased his prowess by carding four consecutive birdies in the early stages of his round.
Adding two more gains on the 16th and 18th holes, he made the turn at an impressive six under par.
Despite encountering a bit of turbulence with two birdies and a bogey on the back nine, he wrapped up the day tied for the lead.
Reflecting on his performance, Bawden expressed satisfaction with his ability to navigate through the challenging afternoon conditions, emphasising the importance of maintaining consistency throughout the tournament.
Kristensen, another co-leader, capitalised on the calmer morning conditions to ascend to the top of the leaderboard.
Delighted with his performance, Kristensen highlighted the progress he’s been making, particularly after facing adversity due to adverse weather affecting his pre-event practice.
With limited practice opportunities leading up to the event, Kristensen adapted admirably, showcasing his skills on the course.
Joining the leading quartet are eight players trailing closely behind at six under par.
Among them are notable names like Emirati Joshua Grenville-Wood, Danes Jonathan Gøth-Rasmussen and Hamish Brown, Englishmen Sam Hutsby and David Horsey, German Nicolai Von Dellingshausen, South African Justin Walters, and Switzerland’s Jeremy Freiburghaus.
As the competition gears up for round two, anticipation builds for another day of thrilling golf action.
Bawden is scheduled to tee off at 8:20 am alongside Norwegian Andreas Halvorsen and Irishman Ronan Mullarney.
Meanwhile, Kristensen will begin his second round at 1:10 pm, paired with Scotland’s Euan Walker and Ireland’s Gary Hurley.
With the leaderboard tightly packed, spectators can expect intense competition as the tournament progresses.