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The risk-reward 18th hole at 'little gem' Al Hamra Golf Club 
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The risk-reward 18th hole at 'little gem' Al Hamra Golf Club 

Expect drama this week at the 18th hole in Ras Al Khaimah.

It has the potential to change the course of a tournament. Just think back to last year's Ras Al Khaimah Championship when Daniel Gavins held on to claim victory despite finding the water twice.

With a tournament on the line, the sight from the tee box at the closing hole - a par five measuring 576 yards - is sure to test the mettle of the very best, with water running the entire length of the right hand side.

Last year, the hole averaged a score of 4.57 across the four rounds of competition play, making it the fourth easiest hole on the course as it yielded nine eagles and 147 birdies.

But, with five double bogeys or worse across the week almost 12 months ago, danger certainly lurks especially with out of bounds to left also to contend with.

Two-time DP World Tour winner Anthony Wall, now a regular member of the World Feed commentary team, gave us his insights to the finishing hole at the third consecutive event in the United Arab Emirates as part of the International Swing on the 2024 Race to Dubai.

"This hole has changed, it has become a tricky tee shot now," he said. "There used to be rough all the way along [the right side]. Not anymore.

"Padraig Harrington has changed a few little things. The ball will definitely run into the penalty area. Come Sunday, someone will definitely win but I guarantee you someone will find the water."

But for those who do avoid trouble off the tee, the narrow undulating green is a challenge in itself.

"If you've managed to find the fairway... you still have the penalty area down the right so don't me wrong this is no gimme. But if you do find the putting surface, pure gold."

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