GALL’S HERO RETURn iS SO ExciTinG
STEPHEN GALLACHER is as excited about his return to Dubai as he was 23 years ago when making his debut in the Hero Dubai Desert Classic.
The 48-year-old Scot is contesting a 625th Tour event this week thanks to a sponsor’s invitation after losing full Tour status at the close of the 2022 season.
Gallacher first contested this event in 2002, securing a share of fourth plave for his then best finish in 35 DP World Tour starts.
He said: “It was nice to receive the invitation because it’s been a tournament dear to my heart so I’m delighted to be here.
“This is a fabulous event and it’s been nice catching up with everyone. I’ve got a good feeling about the tournament.
“The great thing is that while I’ve always loved coming here to Dubai, so do the family and it was extra special they were all here when I won in 1993 and ’94.
“Each time I come here we’ll go into the clubhouse and admire the photographs on the wall as it brings back so many fond memories. It’s just a special place for all in the family.
“And the club has on display clubs donated by the players that they used when winning, so I’ve got two clubs on displa and that only adds to the great memories I carry.
“There’s always been a great familiarity being here and that’s what I’ve liked so much in coming back year after year.
“The tournament also always attracts a great field while the golf course is always in great shape”.
The uncertainty of a 2023 season playing schedule means that Gallacher’s next event after this week will be on February 23 at the Hero Indian Open that due to Covid-related lockdown measures has not been played since 2019.
The win was the last of Gallacher’s fourth DP World victories. He said: “Even though I’m not all that sure where I’ll be playing this year, the excitement heading into a New year is no different.
“I’m looking forward to getting out there as much as I ever was.”