Gregory stays cool under pressure to win OMA Emirates Medalford title in JGE heat
Under the blazing summer sun, the iconic Earth course at Jumeirah Golf Estates came alive as 106 members and guests teed off in the latest edition of the OMA Emirates Medalford, held in association with Unique Holding.
The monthly tournament drew a full field eager to tackle the same fairways graced by the world's best during the DP World Tour Championship. Despite hot and testing conditions, the atmosphere remained upbeat and competitive as players of all ages and divisions rose to the challenge.
Luke Gregory emerged as the day's overall champion, carding a stellar four-under-par net 68 to clinch the May 2025 Medalford title. 'The course was in fantastic condition this morning,' Gregory said after his win. 'I'm grateful to the team and sponsors for putting on such a great event.'
In the Gross Medal Division, Jayson Hilton produced the standout round of the day — a composed level-par 72 — to claim top honours as the only player to shoot even par. Ronan Keating followed closely behind with a solid 75, taking runner-up on a back-nine countback.
Narrow Miss for Stewart
Division A (handicap index 10.4 and below) saw Martin Stewart match Gregory's net 68, narrowly missing out on the overall title via countback. David Marshall finished just a shot back at net 69, edging Callum Smithson through yet another back-nine tiebreaker.
In Division B (10.5 and above), Alan Sheepwash posted a consistent net 70 to claim first place, ahead of Moustafa Shahin (net 73) and Gurpreet Shatra (net 75), who was separated by — yes — another countback.
The Ladies Division was fiercely contested, with Jane Vorster delivering a brilliant net 69 — only one shot behind the overall champion — while the Juniors saw young talent Sam Robinson shoot a gross 77, impressing many with his poise and precision.
De Mel's Winning Debut
Newcomer Priyan De Mel made a winning debut in the Seniors Division, finishing with a net 71. Meanwhile, Evelyn Downham, 2023 Lady Captain, triumphed in the Stableford Division with a superb 38 points, just edging out Andrew Dzikowski on a back-nine countback.
Following the day's play, players gathered in the elegant Ballroom at Jumeirah Golf Estates for a well-earned buffet and prize presentation ceremony, celebrating not just the winners but the spirit of the game.
Cameron McWhinnie, Assistant Golf Services Manager at Jumeirah Golf Estates, summed it up saying: 'As always, we extend our gratitude to our event sponsors, OMA Emirates and Unique Holding, whose steadfast support continues to enhance these member events.
"Additionally, our agronomy team once again exceeded expectations with the outstanding presentation of the Earth course.'
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