Masafi maintains Classic support for a 13th year

For when the 16th Dubai Desert Classic tees off at the Emirates Golf Club on March 3, it will be the 13th successive time that Masafi has been a sponsor of one of the region's most prestigious sporting events. And it's not just a name that the company lends to the event - over the four days of the tournament players, caddies and officials will refresh themselves with more than 32,000 litres of the famous brand!

"Masafi, which is associated with several other prestigious initiatives like the Dubai Tennis Championship, and supporting government-driven initiatives like the Dubai Shopping Festival and Dubai Summer Surprises, is the natural choice to partner a prestigious sporting event like the Dubai Desert Classic," said Masafi General Manager Ashraf Abushady.

"Masafi attained its leadership position through its pioneering marketing initiatives and production facilities and we are reiterating our commitment to providing high quality, safe and healthy drinking water to our consumers."

Among those consumers this year will be world number three Ernie Els, defending champion Mark O'Meara and Ryder Cup stars Thomas Bjorn, Colin Montgomerie and last year's runner-up Paul McGinley, who has confirmed his appearance at the Majlis Course from March 3-6.

"The Majlis Course itself is almost five miles in length so walking it for four days, plus practice days and the Pro-Am, is thirsty work," said Dubai Desert Classic Vice Chairman Mohamed Buamim.

"Like so many of our sponsorship partners, Masafi is a recognised UAE brand and we are delighted to have them on board for what is a 13th consecutive year. Their support is vital for the refreshment and well-being of the players, caddies and officials."

Besides Dubai Aluminium (DUBAL) as the main sponsor of the Dubai Desert Classic, CNN International, Arabian Ranches by Emaar, Nakheel, and Samsung as co-sponsors, other sponsors include: Emirates as official airline and Hole In One Sponsor; official caterer, hotel and challenge match sponsor Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa; Official Bank National Bank of Dubai; official courtesy car BMW; and event newspaper Gulf News.