Another much awaited day took place at Jumeirah Golf Estates on November 19th, when 28 players teed up for our 10th Anniversary Golf Championships. The competition inherited a trophy, Riston malja, from a smaller annual event organised by the former Finnish Ambassador Mr Risto Rekola in early 2000’s. Year by year the competition got bigger and better, with 46 players at most, and up to a hundred people participating in the after party, which has also been celebrated as the “Pikkujoulu”, the little Xmas party. We remember many joyful and hilarious moments – some of which we might almost want to forget (witnessed Nuuttipukki competition?)!
In the shadow of Covid-19, looking back at those cheerful worry-free days, it seems like a distant memory. For a moment there was a doubt if we can carry on with the tradition this year. Even at the risk of last minute cancellation due to the pandemic we decided to hold on to the legacy, abiding to the regulations and rules. Masked competitors were sent out to the course and another fun day was concluded just before sunset. The Fire course was getting prepared for its first European Tour competition, and we too felt like we were making history as the course steps up from the shadow of the majestic Earth course, home of the Race to Dubai finals. Memorable year in many senses. Congratulations to Fredrik Schauman, the winner in the scratch category, and to Petri Pentti who won the stableford category. The longest drives, again, were hit by Anne Sahlström and Fredrik Schauman, and Mikael Nordenswan hit closest to the pin.
A brief history of FBC and of the golf tournament, including past category winners and photos, is linked here. We hope to return to the next competition under lighter and brighter skies next time, with Covid-19 and masks, hopefully as a distant memory. Until then, stay safe.
By the pen,
Jaana Räsänen-Pentti
Honorary Chairman
Thank you to all the participants and to our sponsors:
Tarja Ruuska photography, Golf GameBook, Hintsa Performance, Jumeirah Golf Estates and Player Tour Academy.
(Photo credit Tarja Ruuska Photography)
