Abu Dhabi: Saif Thabet won his second HSBC-sponsored UAE President’s Cup by eight strokes with a record score of four under par, following up an opening 73 with a career best round of 67 (140) at Yas Links over the weekend.

Ahmad Skaik, who also won in 2014, finished second with rounds of 73, 75 (148) and Hassan Al Musharrakh came third with 73, 80 (157).

“To win this event twice under the patronage of UAE President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is a big honour,” said Thabet. “Having my name carved on the trophy and to go down in UAE golfing history for firing the lowest score at this event means a lot to me.

“My hard work is paying off and shooting my lowest round of my career is proof of that. I knew I was mentally and physically prepared. I think the turning point was when I got 3 birdies in a row during my second round on 11, 12, and 13.

“Moving forward I am going to get back to the driving range and gym and continue to work on my game. I will better my game through the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) Order of Merit in preparation for National Team events. I also have my eye on making a spot on the amateur Dubai Trophy Team. I look forward to continue to represent my country locally and internationally,” he added.

Eighty-two players took part in the sixth edition of the EGF organised event and a further 18, aged between 8-15, took part in the par three development tournament.

Abdullah Al Musharrakh won the overall net prize with a total of 144, while Reema Al Heloo won the women’s event for a second year in a row after a gross score of 23 over par 167. Eida Al Muhairbi won the women’s net prize with a two over net par of 146.

Obaid Al Heloo won the junior division with a total of 177 to claim his first title. Rashid Al Emadi finished three shots back and Khaled Al Mutawa won the junior net prize with a score of 178.

Rashid Al Jassmy won the par three ahead of his brother Sultan after a last three-hole countback and Saad Al Zarouni came third.

The EGF will be back in action next month in the National Monthly Medal on March 14 at Jebel Ali Golf Resort and when the national teams compete at the GCC Championships over the coming months.