Golf, friendship, and a bit of playoff drama were the order of the day at the first-ever Cedars Championship, hosted at the stunning Al Zorah Golf and Yacht Club.
This brand-new event, created through a partnership between the Lebanese Golf Federation and the Emirates Golf Federation, brought together 66 top amateur players from across the region for three days of competitive golf — and some seriously good vibes.
With WAGR points, Arab Golf Series standings, and HotelPlanner Tour spots on the line, there was plenty to play for. But beyond the scores and leaderboards, the championship also served as a celebration of the strong and growing bond between two golfing nations.
Playoff Drama & Rising Stars
In the Men’s Division, Sam Mullane, a standout player from the UAE National Team, emerged victorious after an intense six-hole playoff against fellow Emirates Golf Federation members Mikhail Pinto and Dan Bryne. While Mullane had already secured his spot in the upcoming HotelPlanner Tour event, his win opened the door for both runners-up to receive sponsor exemptions into next week’s professional field — a nod to the high level of play and sportsmanship displayed throughout the week.
Romania’s Anca Mateiu delivered a dominant performance in the Ladies Division, carding rounds of 65, 68, and 73 for an impressive 10-under-par total of 217, securing her title with flair.
The Junior Division was won in emphatic style by Daniil Sokolov, who posted a one-under-par total — finishing a remarkable nine shots ahead of the nearest challenger. Sokolov was also granted a start in next week’s professional event.
Sport as a Bridge
The prize presentation was graced by key dignitaries, including EGF Chairman His Excellency Shaikh Fahim Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Vice Chairman General Abdullah Alhashmi, and Lebanese Golf Federation President Karim Salaam.
In a moving speech, Mr Salaam said: “It is important for countries to stand with other countries, and although Lebanon is going through difficult times, we can use sport to be a vehicle of diplomacy. Thank you to the Emirates Golf Federation and to our brothers and sisters in the UAE for this opportunity. We look forward to continuing to use this championship to accomplish more than just the development of golf.”
A Regional Milestone
The Cedars Championship is the second official event in the Arab Golf Series, a new initiative spearheaded by the Arab Golf Federation. The event drew players from Egypt, Lebanon, Palestine, Qatar, and the UAE, highlighting the growing depth and reach of competitive amateur golf across the region.
With its competitive spirit and message of unity, the Cedars Championship has laid a strong foundation for future collaboration — both on and off the course.
