By Will Kent
It’s been a big year for local talent Intissàr Rich. With support from the Emirates Golf Federation, the 24-year-old’s enjoyed success representing the UAE and even had the opportunity to meet one of her golfing idols at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic.
One local respected golf coach told me recently that Intissàr has “an abundance of raw talent”, and it’s hard to argue with that statement if you watch her play. She has all the tools you need to compete at the professional level, and she’s made significant progress over the last 12 months of realising that dream.
Her recent achievements on the course such as winning individual gold at the December’s GCC Championships are not only fuelled by the facilities and opportunities available in the UAE, but also by her relentless determination to get better every time she tees it up.
“I’d say that my golf is improving day by day,” she said. “My work ethic just gets better and hopefully the results will follow. Just eat, sleep, golf. This summer time will be huge towards my training and development.”
Ladies European Tour
She kicked off her summer in June by competing on the Ladies European Tour in the Czech Republic as well as participating in the LET Access Series. Although she would have hoped for better results, such is the nature of golf. The experience of playing against some of the sport’s best at that level will have been incredibly valuable.
But before that trip to Europe, she had an equally-as-busy season representing the UAE in various prestigious events. Notably, she competed in the Espirito Santo Trophy at Abu Dhabi Golf Club last October which is widely regarded as the premier amateur tournament globally. Annika Sörenstam played in the competition twice during her career, winning the individual title in 1992. It’s an honour for any golfer to compete in.
“I learned how to channel great pressure and the emotions of representing your country,” she added of her experience playing in the prestigious event. “It was difficult, but I was honoured to be put in that position.
“Representing the UAE has only done positive things for me and my game. Especially mentally, and the important part is to be patient, of course. The support of the EGF is second to none.”
Success So Far
Building on her experience from that tournament over the course of the season, Intissàr helped lead the UAE team to victory at the GCC Championships while also finishing in the top five herself at several other local tournaments. She also finished second at the EGF Order of Merit Championship at Al Zorah Golf Club, which was a WAGR recognised event.
But her golfing highlights this year haven’t just been limited to the course. The 24-year-old had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to receive a putting lesson from four-time Major winner Rory McIlroy at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic. Does it get any better than that?
“Rory is one of my role models and favourite players to watch,” said Intissàr. “I aim to model his game, and being able to get insight into his routine was a dream come true. I was truly honoured to have met someone I admired for so long. It fuelled my passion even more.”
Like she mentions, this summer and beyond is set to be a crucial part of her development towards taking the next step. She’s making steady strides towards competing at the highest level in golf on a consistent basis, and her commitment to the cause is admirable. It’s surely now just a matter of time before she bursts through on a big stage.
