Steve Munro (ProSports International) shot a five under par 67, to win the 18-hole UAE Emirates PGA Saadiyat Shootout at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, Abu Dhabi, and with with a sudden-death play-off, wins an Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) invite into next week’s $300,000 UAE Challenge on the Challenge Tour at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club in Abu Dhabi, Thursday 4th – Sunday 7th May, 2023.

42 year-old Munroe shot a five under par 67 to tie with Thomas Ogilvie (Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club).

Munro then birdied the first play-off hole, the 18th measuring 400 yards, with a birdie three to take first place and the invite.

He was out in one under par 35 with birdies on holes two and nine and a bogey on hole six.

Four birdies and five pars later saw Munro home in 32 for a round of 67.

Losing in the play-off was Ogilvie, also shooting 67, with five birdies and an eagle on hole 15, but could only finish with three pars.

On concluding his round Munro told GULF NEWS, ‘I played really nicely today and gave myself a few opportunities for birdies. I played especially well on the back nine.’

‘Last week I had an operation to remove a cyst from my left shoulder – I am not sure really if I should have played today, but wisely did not ask for permission from my medical team.’

‘I have previously played in the Mauritius Open when it was a tri-sanctioned event as well as having won both the UAE Emirates PGA Matchplay and PGA Championship – but sadly my best finish is second in the UAE Emirates PGA season longOrder of Merit.’

‘I am really looking forward to playing next week on the Challenge Tour. I plan to practice on Tuesday at the venue with Wednesday being Pro-Am day. I want to thank the EGF for the invite and hope to do myself and everyone proud. We played off the Gold Tee course at 7,104 yards today, and the club are saving the back tees for the Challenge Tour.’