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26 Jan’ 2018
Qatar Open Amateur Golf Championship gets underway
DOHA, January 26, 2018-Moroccan youngster Ayoub Id-Omar edged a trio of players for a one-shot lead after the first round of the Qatar Open amateur Golf Championship at Doha Golf Club yesterday.
The 21-year-old shot a three-under par 69 and was only one of five golfers to post sub-par scores in the prestigious regional event, the winner of which gets to play in the European Tour's Commercial Bank Qatar Masters next month.
“I am happy with my level of play although with a bit of luck I could have posted an event better score," said Id-Omar.
“I hope the conditions during the second round tomorrow are also good," he added.
Twice winner on the European Tour, Simon Khan, of England, his compatriot Joshua white American Thomas Strandemo were a shot behind with 70 each, while Dutchman Mark Markovits was a further shot behind with 71.
Four players shot 72s, trailing leader Id-Omar by three shots, while three Qataris – Sahel al-Kaabi and AIi al-Shahrani began with a 75.
Defending champion Pierre Verlaar was two-over 74.
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