Shane O'Donoghue now presents "Living Golf" on CNN and in the past two weeks has completed interviews with 2010 Ryder Cup captain Colin Montgomerie, the 2012 captain Jose Maria Olazabal and Andy McFee, European Tour referee.
The global profile of Dubai as the destination of choice has received a fresh fillip with media giant CNN International teaming up with ‘golf in DUBAi’ to ensure enhanced worldwide coverage of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic to be held at the Emirates Golf Club from February 7 to 13.
CNN International, the world's leading 24-hour news network, is no stranger to the game in this part of the world, having associated with the promoters and organisers of the European Tour event as the International Media Partner for many years.
CNN International Ad Sales’ in-house production unit Turner Commercial Productions produces commercials to promote the Omega Dubai Desert Classic to air on CNN across Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia Pacific, bringing an unprecedented level of exposure for the event, which has become the torch-bearers for golf in the region.
Rani R. Raad, Senior Vice President, CNN International, said: “Over the years, Dubai has become a leader of sports in the region, thanks to international events like the Omega Dubai Desert Classic attracting a quality field every year.
“We are proud to support a team that professionally runs a world-class tournament which promotes Dubai and the UAE. We’ve enjoyed a long-standing and a very successful relationship with golf in DUBAi and we’re pleased to continue our support for golf in the region.”
Available in more than 285 million households in more than 200 countries, CNN International provides global news and feature programming, tailored to its diverse audience and available via television, web and mobile.
Mohamed Juma Buamaim, Vice-Chairman and CEO of golf in DUBAi, lauded the growing ties with CNN International saying: “We are delighted to have them on board and feel their support is vital for us in showcasing Dubai’s attractions to the world and driving tourism to the Emirate.
“Working together works, always. It has worked with CNN International and our ties are scaling new heights with time. With CNN’s support, we will strive to deliver the event in sync with Dubai’s growing reputation as the sporting capital of the region,” he added.
'golf in DUBAi' is backed by Omega as the title sponsor and Dubal (Dubai Aluminium) as the sponsor. The co-sponsors are: CNN, Emirates Airline, Emirates NBD, Gulf News, Jumeirah, Mercedes-Benz and wasl while Dubai Duty Free, Carpetland and Motivate are the Patrons in golf in DUBAi’s drive to showcase the emirate's vibrant golfing scene to a worldwide audience.
