On the eve of the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship defending champion Paul Casey impressed by quality field and course set up

As the host venue of the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship and the home of golf in Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Golf Club has developed an enviable reputation as one of the finest golf courses in world golf. As the Championship has grown so too has the quality and condition of the golf course and the prestigious event will welcome 8 of the world’s top 15 golfers for the 2010 Championship. In an interview today defending champion and world #8, Paul Casey, stated, “The course is as good as I have seen it. I thoroughly enjoy the layout and play well round here. The field is very strong this week and I am looking forward to getting out there and competing.” On the eve of the first round, a list of headline golfers from around the world line up for what is quickly becoming a must play event on the European Tour circuit.

“The Championship has grown in stature over the previous four years and once again we can welcome some of the biggest names in golf. The vision to grow golf in Abu Dhabi and the UAE has seen the Championship quickly establish itself as one of the most distinguished and coveted titles on the European Tour. The course this year has been set up immaculately; the greens are smooth and very quick, we have the fairways shaped perfectly and the whole facility has come to life as the excitement grows. Whoever wins this week will be a worthy champion.” commented Ken Kosak, General Manager, Abu Dhabi Golf Club.

The global appeal of the championship is represented by 26 countries across 6 continents, with the field being led by Europe’s #1 and #2 players in 2009, Lee Westwood and Rory McIlroy; further testament to the position the golf club holds as an international championship venue. Joining them in pursuit of the coveted Falcon trophy is two-time Abu Dhabi Golf Championship winner, Paul Casey, as well as Ryder Cup stars Henrik Stenson, Robert Karlsson, Ian Poulter, Sergio Garcia and Anthony Kim, and multiple US PGA Tour winners, Camillo Villegas and Geoff Ogilvy.

Now in its fifth year, the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship is set to welcome a record crowd to see some of the world’s best golfers compete for their share of the total prize fund of €1.5m. A number of spectator facilities have been introduced for the 2010 Championship including viewing platforms, an interactive Championship Village and a host of food & beverage outlets, which ensure this years’ championship is the most impressive so far.

The Abu Dhabi Golf Championship takes place at Abu Dhabi Golf Club between 21-24 January 2010.

Finally, IGWT get the thumbs up from the powers that be to invest in some quality journalism...

Introducing the 'Industry Insider'. The latest kit? Check. The big manufacturers? Check. The sordid rumours? Check. Three Mars Bars, a multipack of Walkers and a litre of cherry coke? Check.

By Christ does he know his golf onions, so hit him up at editorial@madeupmedia.net and he'll send a gigabyte or two of knowledge your way.

To see his first reviews on all the latest from Titleist Click Here.

Finally, IGWT get the thumbs up from the powers that be to invest in some quality journalism...

Introducing the 'Industry Insider'. The latest kit? Check. The big manufacturers? Check. The sordid rumours? Check. Three Mars Bars, a multipack of Walkers and a litre of cherry coke? Check.

By Christ does he know his golf onions, so hit him up at editorial@madeupmedia.net and he'll send a gigabyte or two of knowledge your way.

To see his first reviews on all the latest from Titleist Click Here.

This week, Chav explains his disappointment that he couldn't defend the tournument last year because of the Ryder Cup.

Every time I study Tigers stats on PGATOUR.com something doesn't add up.

Get this, of the 93 individual statistics the PGA record, the chosen one is ranked first a massive, 38 times. Although beyond impressive, it's the fact he is ranked 22nd in putts per round and his driving accuracy is 83rd that got me... He's not brilliant at either driving or putting and yet he's still (rightfully) player of the year.

I once helped convince my boss to spend £7,000 on Ian Poulter's golf clubs. It turned out rather nicely for the charity auction, not so much for us...

We were a small company that struggled to pay the bills, the betting started slowly so we decided to outbid ourselves? From £1,000 to £3,000 to £5,000. Eventually we 'won' at £7,000. Genius.

The golf clubs eventually got nicked from the office. What I learned? Auctions are a bad mixer with wine and don't trust workies.

Check out the IGWT charity auction advice below, then 'win' yourself a weekend fishing trip with Boo Weekly by posting a private bid here.

Rule 1. Believe nothing and check everything.

Rule 2. Assume the reserve price is exaggerate.

Rule 3. Don't let the auctioneer know too much.

Rule 4. Research the true value.

Rule 5. Get legal advice.

Rule 6. Don't bid too soon.

Rule 7. Your highest price should remain a secret.

That's right exclusive access to Ian Poulter's closet!

A sneak peak into the wardrobe of the most famously dressed golfer in the world. We just had to ask for a tour of his closet and garage. Why the garage? Because all his shoes won't fit in the closet!

Pros take on the leading amateurs at Celtic Manor...

Later this month, Peter McEvoy leads a team against former Ryder and Solheim Cup players at the Single Figure Golfer (SFG) Challenge Tour final. Forty events across the UK provided 84 finalists but with just 10 final places available, the format mirrors the Ryder Cup and will be played on The Twenty Ten Course that will host the 2010 Ryder Cup.

Rate Peter McEvoy's Swing Here in our 'Rate My Swing Section'.

SFG is a unique online community for single figure golfers giving access to exclusive tournaments, offers, custom-made clothing and travel breaks.

Check their bad selves out at www.singlefiguregolfer.co.uk (bad meaning good, yeah?)

Fancy a Tiger Woods design in your back garden?

Seen on the green. Former tennis champ on tour...

With time on their hands and no financial worries, perhaps caddying is the next big thing for celebrities after they’re out of the limelight. 

First, leading US political advisor Neil Oxman caddied for Tom Watson at the Open this year, helping him to the runners-up spot which was as unlucky as it was unexpected. Oxman had, in fact, been part time caddy for the eight-time major winner since 2003. Nice work if you can get it.

Earlier this year, former Wimbledon champion Richard Krajicek was seen caddying for 23-year-old Will Bessling. With proven pedigree and a clear passion for golf, we're sure he has a lot to offer the 354th ranked Dutchman, who he has managed for the last two seasons.