Dubai was the venue for the last event in the 'Desert Swing', the 'Omega Dubai Desert Classic'.
The practice days saw some fantastic weather and the course was in superb condition.I arrived in Dubai the weekend prior, so I arranged to meet up with Darren Clarke, who was there early to practice, and with whom I hadn't seen since he finished 2nd In the Jo'Burg Open.
Darren's stroke is looking a lot better in practice and the data we collected highlighted that, which also pleased Darren. We also tested some different weight options in the Yes! SWS putter range. Darren tested really well with the Callie 100g internal weighting and so has a new putter in play this week. Let's hope it brings him luck.
On the Tuesday I met up with Henrik Stenson again and we put some productive work in ready for the week. I also spent some time with Edoardo Molinari tweaking a few things, while also looking at a slightly shorter putter which Edoardo felt helped him achieve his ideal eye position, now that we have improved his weight distribution and balance at set up.
One player I started working with this week for the first time is Joost Luiten, which is really exciting for me as he is a very good prospect. The week previous, Joost had visited the Yes Putting centre in Holland which is run by our Harold Swash Accredited Instructor Rob Mouwen.
Rob conducted an in-depth analysis using forceplates, SAM puttlab and high speed video. Rob then passed the data over with his comments and critique and I caught up with Joost, this week, to put a plan in place that he can follow on tour and also when back at home with Rob in Holland.
Dave Horsey who achieved another top 15 last week in Qatar was also playing so we met for some work on the green. Dave this year has gone back to his trusty Callie putter which he used ever so well when winning the challenge tour order or merit in 2008. He briefly used a Tracy FC at the back end of last year, but has found form again with his Callie. I believe Dave is one to watch this year.
Other students in the field included Ollie Fisher and Richard Finch. From a product perspective it was a pretty quite week with having seen most of the guys the week before in Qatar.
On a final note it was great to see Tom Watson in Dubai, and just like every other golf fan if they had the chance, I couldn't resist having my picture taken with him! My next event back out on tour will be the Andalucia Masters in Malaga in March.
