Desert Classic plan could be a bright idea

GOLF: Rounds may end under floodlights

The first two rounds of next week’s Omega Dubai Desert Classic could finish under floodlights, the European Tour has announced.

With the £2.2 million event taking place a week earlier than normal, the amount of daylight could prove a problem for the later starters in the field.

However, floodlights have been installed around the combined ninth and 18th greens on the Majlis Course at Emirates GC to ensure play can finish on schedule, allowing a field of 132 players rather than 126.

European Tour chief executive Keith Pelley said: “This is a wonderful idea and fits perfectly with our desire to bring innovation to our sport.

“We thank the promoters of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic for their inventiveness and imagination which will allow six more players to compete in what is already a world-class field.

“No professional golfer ever wants to come back the following morning to complete a round due to lack of daylight and this intervention, should it be required, will rule out that necessity.

“The wonderful amphitheatre created by the huge hospitality units and grandstands around the ninth and 18th greens at the Emirates Golf Club is already one of the most atmospheric arenas on our Tour and that element will only be increased by this idea.”

Meanwhile, Patton Kizzire clinched the Sony Open title following a play-off victory over James Hahn.

The 31-year-old, who finished with a fourth round score of 68, sealed the triumph over six extra holes against compatriot Hahn after the duo completed the final round on 17 under par – a shot in front of over night leader Tom Hoge – in Hawaii.

Scotland’s Russell Knox finished in a four-way tie for 10th after a final round 69 saw him come home 13 under par.