Home player Vardy leads Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club Open after round one

Joshua Vardy (SGSC) cashed in on his local knowledge to shoot an even-par 72 to secure the leader after the first round of the 17th Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club Open, a 36-hole tournament.

This event marks the first qualifying tournament for the Men’s and Ladies' 2024-25 EGF Order of Merit.

Playing off a 5 handicap on his home course, Vardy navigated a tricky day with a steady performance, mixing birdies and bogeys while showing impressive resilience.

His front nine got off to a quiet start with a bogey on the par-3 3rd, resulting in a one-over-par 37. However, he found his stride on the back nine, sinking birdies on holes 11 and 12 before faltering slightly with consecutive bogeys on 13 and 14. A vital birdie on the 17th brought him back to level par, securing his place atop the leaderboard.

Other notable scores include UAE's Mohammad Skaik, who carded a 75. Last year’s Men’s EGF Order of Merit champion, Jonathan Selvaraj, is just behind with a 76.

Commenting on the day’s play, Sam McLaren, Director of Golf at Sharjah Golf & Shooting Club, said: "We have witnessed some impressive scores in our flagship tournament on our domestic SGSC calendar.

"The golf course was not easy – the wind was a factor today. Eight players have shot 75 or better – which is a pretty good score – mindful of the conditions."

The 70-player field returns for the second and final round on Sunday, with the leaders set to tee off at 12:37 pm. The first tee time is at 7:00 am. Vardy will be paired with Scott Carmichael and M. Dutton in the final group. Carmichael is just one shot behind after finishing with a 73, while Dutton sits at 74.

First Round Scores

(Par 72):

Vardy (SGSC) 72

Carmichael (Trump International) 73

McCarrick (Trump International) 76